Technology for installing paving stones on a concrete base, on sand, all the nuances of laying it yourself

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23.12.2015

Today, paving stones have gained immense popularity, which is an ideal material for creating driveways to houses and garden paths. Gradually it replaced the black and ugly asphalt. With the help of paving stones, a wonderful pedestrian area can be created. To make it unique, you need to use tiles that have different shapes and colors. This will help create exclusive patterns and ornaments. In this article we will talk about how to lay paving stones correctly.

Paving stone area in front of the house

What is paving stone and what types does it come in?

A parallelepiped made of stone is called a paving stone. The coating is strong, durable, laid out on the surface block by block, and is intended for beautifying the external space. It can be clinker, granite, concrete. The elements are different in shape, decor, color. There are many installation methods and technologies for performing work.

Laying granite paving stones is suitable for sidewalks and roads. Natural material is environmentally friendly and does not require constant maintenance. Concrete blocks are also popular; they are distinguished by high levels of stability, but it is worth considering the material’s susceptibility to acids. Clinker paving stones are durable, do not deteriorate from chemicals, and do not fade.

For a budget option, you can make paths using vibro-pressed cement-polymer paving stones. The material tolerates loads well and is moisture and frost resistant. The low price is due to the replacement of cement components with polymer ones.

There are several tips when choosing. In addition to the type and shape of the elements, it is worth paying attention to the technical characteristics of the compositions. Frost resistance is important, which takes into account the freezing-thawing cycle (for the climatic conditions of Russia this is 10 cycles). Water absorption capacity should be no more than 2%. There are 3 strength indicators for paving stones: compression, bending and abrasion. Average weight of material per 1 sq. m - 100 kg.

What are the advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of paving stones is strength, high performance characteristics, high load-bearing capacity, and resistance to temperature changes. The material is easy to install, so you can make the paving yourself. Paving stones are environmentally friendly, have high maintainability, and do not require high operating costs.

Paths made of paving stones do not retain water; the safety of people's movement is ensured by the rough texture of the elements. A geotextile separator, which is laid in the base, prevents soil subsidence and deformation of the sidewalk.

The disadvantage is the high cost of paving stones, which is why concrete-polymer block options are used in budget projects at the dacha. Paving stones are also difficult to process.

On some soils, with a high level of humidity, the base can be washed out, then the masonry sags and individual elements fall out.

Overview of types of paving stones

There can be many options for designing the territory. That is why manufacturers offer a large selection of paving stones for making paths. This gives the consumer the opportunity to choose the best option, taking into account his taste and the design features of the site.

Figured concrete paving stones

Concrete paving stones

The main type of paving coating is concrete products (heavy or fine-grained). The requirements for them are established in GOST 17608*2017. Based on their purpose and characteristics, paving stones are divided into 4 categories.

Table. Groups of paving stones made from concrete.

Concrete paving stones are laid using a certain technology

The standard standardizes the performance characteristics of all product groups.

Characteristics of all groups

Paving stones can have different shapes, but the most popular are square and rectangular products . The edges (vertical and horizontal) must be mutually perpendicular. The thickness of the slabs, depending on the shape and purpose, varies from 60 to 100 mm. The coating is available in one and two layers and can have different shades and surface textures. Paving stones are produced by casting or vibrocompression.

Ingredients for the production of products:

• Portland cement;
• fine aggregate – natural sand of fraction up to 2…2.2 mm;
• crushed stone from natural stone or gravel (up to 10...20 mm in size (depending on the thickness of the tile)) as a coarse filler;
• additives;
• pigments;
• water.

Photo of paving stones

To reinforce paving stones, steel wire or reinforcement (basalt or fiberglass) is used.

Today, concrete slabs for paving sidewalks and paths have worthy competitors.

Poor installation

Prices for concrete paving stones

Concrete paving stones

Products with rubber filling

Tiles made from crumb rubber bound with a polyurethane adhesive are also actively used today in the construction of paths, platforms and sidewalks. It has excellent characteristics; in addition, if it falls on a surface lined with rubber, it is almost impossible to get injured. Laying rubber products is not at all difficult.

Rubber paving slabs

Prices for rubber paving slabs

Rubber paving slabs

Polymer sand coating

For paving paths intended exclusively for the movement of people, tiles made from sand, polymers, additives and pigments are used. It is light in weight, can be operated under large temperature changes and has a long service life. Installation of such a coating does not present any special problems.

Polymer sand tiles

Technology for laying polymer-sand paving slabs

Prices for polymer sand tiles

Polymer sand tiles

Granite paving stones

Products that were especially popular earlier have not lost their relevance today. Paths lined with paving stones from this material are used for their intended purpose for a long time. Granite, a natural stone, is not afraid of unfavorable external environments; it is resistant to mechanical damage, vibrations and the effects of aggressive environments. And the aesthetic qualities of stone pavement do not need advertising.

Granite paving stones

Prices for granite tiles

Granite paving stones

Shapes of paving stones

The choice of product configurations is wide enough so that you can choose an option to suit your taste. The appearance of the paths, laid out using standard rectangular products, resembles masonry. The most popular options for paving stones of this type are “Old Town” (a set of rectangular and square slabs) and “Brick”. Beautiful designs are made from coil-shaped tiles. Square and radius products are also in demand.

Laying paving slabs

Marking paths and platforms

The technology for laying paving stones on sand involves marking the area. First, the paving area is calculated. At this stage, it is necessary to measure the width of the road so that the bars lie evenly and do not require modification. The thickness of the seams is also measured. For marking, pegs are installed in the corners of the future sidewalk. Beacon cords are needed to check the level of the road surface. Adjustment is also necessary for laying rainwater drains.

Tools and materials

To understand how to properly lay paving stones, you should understand the list of tools for this procedure, as well as additional materials that will be needed to achieve this goal. Let's list:

1. Sand of natural origin (fraction can be medium or coarse).
2. Gravel or crushed stone with a single unit size not exceeding 4 cm.
3. It is advisable to select cement with a marking of over 500.
4. Curbs.
5. Hegotextiles.

Here is a list of tools that will be needed to lay paving stones:

1. Tools for mixing concrete.
2. Vibrating plate or rammer.
3. Standard grinder.
4. Shovels: scoop and bayonet type.
5. Level over 1 m long.
6. Rubber hammer.
7. Wooden pegs.
8. Cord or strong thread.
9. Brush.
10. Mixing containers.

Excavation

Laying paving stones yourself involves excavation work. To create a trench, soil is removed, since the top layer of earth is often unstable and will not be able to withstand massive elements and operational loads.

The volume of soil to be lifted depends on the project, but there are general rules. The paving stones should be located 4 cm below the area adjacent to the sidewalk. The total depth of the trench for the blocks and fastening mixture is from 20 cm. If the tiles are placed on a platform for transport, it is necessary to increase the depth of the trench by 10 cm. The bottom of the earthen structure is leveled and compacted with a manual tamper or a vibrating plate.

Pros of using paving stones

Paths are created on the basis of different materials, so all types of tiles are divided into three main types:

• granite;
• clinker;
• vibrocast or vibropressed.

Accordingly, the easiest way to figure out how to lay paving stones correctly is based on the differences between certain properties and features of the materials used.

Let us list the advantages that the properties of laying paving stones have:

• High strength characteristics, ability to withstand high loads.
• Long service life.
• Environmentally friendly and safe, no emissions into the environment.
• High load-bearing capacity.
• Temperature resistance, in particular to frost, as well as precipitation and moisture.
• Attractive appearance due to a wide range of colors and possible patterns, as well as high-quality imitation of various types of materials.
• Easy to install and dismantle if necessary, as well as repair.
• Possibility to carry out all installation procedures with your own hands.

Laying technology

Options for laying paving stones are determined by the use of different materials and block shapes, and the purpose of the road. The elements are placed on a base made of sand, concrete or cement-sand. The rectangular classic layout of sidewalk fragments allows you to combine colors and textures.

The herringbone laying technology is performed by laying tiles at an angle of 45° or 90°. When laying out a checkerboard pattern, square bars of contrasting shades are used and the elements are placed in a checkerboard pattern. The “random mixture” technique allows you to design a path with a random arrangement of bars of different sizes and colors.

On a crushed stone base

The technology of laying paving stones on a crushed stone base includes a complex of works. A geogrid is placed on the cleared space, a layer of crushed stone of 10-20 cm is applied on top. A slope is created on the leveled mixture, and the surface is compacted. Then the curbs are installed and secured with a dry cement-sand mixture. Also, in areas of high loads, installation of a road mesh will be required. Stone bars are installed according to the sketch, gaps of up to 3 cm are left between the blocks. The seams between the bars are filled with a dry mixture.

Made from concrete

A concrete base for the blocks is required to strengthen the base. The bonding mixture is necessary when working with thin tiles and constructing sidewalks on moving soil. Laying paving stones over concrete involves installing formwork into which concrete is poured. For large areas of coverage, it will be necessary to install expansion joints every 3 m.

After grouting the joints and installing curbs, pour a 3 cm layer of cement-sand mixture. The elements of the road surface are laid out on the surface. Concrete paving stones are not damaged by strong weight and mechanical loads.

On the sand layer

To form a sidewalk from paving stones on a sandy base, you need to prepare the surface: level it, cover it with geo-textile, form a sand cushion up to 15 cm. It is important what kind of sand is used in the work. Experts recommend formulations without impurities.

The embankment is leveled and a slope is created for water flow. The base is watered and compacted with a vibrating plate. The curbs are fastened with a mixture of concrete, then the laying of paving stones begins according to a given pattern. The gaps between masonry elements should be 2-3 mm. The seams are filled with sand, then the sidewalk is compacted with a vibrating plate and cleaned with water.

Nuances

Methods for installing bars and materials are determined by the purpose of the road. For pedestrian sidewalks, 40 mm tiles are sufficient. A road with constant vehicle traffic is paved with thick paving stones. To create pedestrian paths, a pattern of blocks is laid out on a sand base or a mixture of sand and cement. The methods of laying paving stones also determine the types of loads on the road surface. The coating can be strengthened using a concrete screed.

Tool for laying paving stones

To make the construction of paving stone paths neat and quick, you will need the following set of tools:

• Hydraulic building level (10 m). If you do not own a laser level, which costs a lot of money, buy a regular hydraulic level.
• Construction rack bubble level 1 meter long.
• Metal profile pipe with a cross section of 20 x 40 mm: 2 meter and 6 meter pieces.
• Steel pointed pins and wooden pegs.
• White nylon cord;
• Large rubber hammer. You need to buy one high-quality mallet or three Chinese ones, as they quickly fall apart.

• Master OK.
• Two different tape measures: 2 meter and 10 meter.
• A broom or broom to sweep the seams between the tiles.
• A clamp and a heavy 100 mm steel angle. From them you need to make a device for fastening the paving stones before cutting it

Securing paving stones with a cutting clamp

• A grinder equipped with a steel disk with a diameter of 230 mm. Only use a steel disc and not abrasive cutting wheels. It is better to buy a more expensive disk with normal quality, since cheap samples quickly become unusable and will have to be replaced.

Steel 230 mm disc for cutting stone and concrete products cuts paving stones without any problems

Installation of curbs

Installation of curbs occurs according to pre-made markings. Then a cement-sand mortar is mixed in a ratio of 1:3 and applied to the surface along the laying of the blocks. The curbs are placed on the bonding mixture and adjusted to the level. The finished slabs are left for 1 day so that the solution holds the elements together. In some design solutions, blocks are laid without a border.

What requirements must paving slabs meet?

When using any types of products for paving, they must meet the following requirements:

• when laying tiles outdoors, frost resistance ≥ 200 cycles;
• compressive strength ≥ 30 MPa;
• water absorption by weight ≤ 5%;
• abrasion during annual operation ≤ 0.7 g/cm2;
• the purchase of products must be made from one batch, since in different batches, even from the same manufacturer, the tiles will differ in geometric dimensions and color saturation;
• environmentally friendly cleanliness of products, when used both for external and internal work with the installation of cobblestone flooring in warehouses and utility rooms;
• lack of porosity on the surface;
• strict adherence to geometric dimensions with evenness of all edges;
• absence of internal and external cracks, as well as chips;
• naturalness and uniformity of coloring.

Geotextile layer

Preparation for installation of tiles includes laying a waterproofing layer, which is placed above the drainage as a substrate. This prevents moisture from reaching the top load-bearing layer and improves the quality and integrity of the coating. A layer of geotextile is lined on the bottom and walls of the earthen structure. The artificial material does not rot from prolonged exposure to water, does not decompose even with prolonged use, and provides the road with protection from water.

Step-by-step preparation of the base

Step #1.

It is necessary to break the contour of the area intended for installation and set up control beacons.

Step #2.

It is necessary to determine the flow of water and remove it from the path or blind area of ​​the building onto lawns or into water wells. The slope can be transverse, longitudinal or longitudinal-transverse. Its calculation is carried out based on the type of material for installation:

• For clinker road bricks or paving slabs
  – 5 mm or more per 1 m.
• Laying granite paving stones
  - 10 mm or more per 1 m.

Step #3.

After the height level is reached, the required layer of soil is removed, and the base bed is compacted with a vibrating plate.

Sealing and finishing work

To maintain the integrity of the coating, it is necessary to grout the joints that separate the blocks from each other. There are three main methods for sealing paving joints. The distance between the elements is filled with sand, poured with concrete mortar or rubbed with a concrete mixture. For pavements made of natural granite, sand and concrete mortar are suitable. For roads made of ceramic paving stones, it is better to use sand. The seams between the concrete blocks are rubbed with concrete mixture. Marble blocks can only be held together with sand-cement mortar.

After filling the masonry joints, excess material is removed with a broom or broom. Then the sidewalk is hosed down with water, the mixture hardens and firmly holds the blocks together. Cement-sand mortar is poured between the coating elements and left for bonding.

Advantages and disadvantages

First of all, let's figure out whether it is possible to lay paving slabs on sand and how advisable it is.

In a short time, paths made of modern paving stones laid on sand have gained great popularity. Here are the main points that give this technology an advantage:

• the sand cushion provides effective drainage - when it rains, moisture goes into the seams between the paving stones, so there are no puddles on such paths;
• since the surface of the path and its internal structure are not monoliths, when the soil moves, it does not crack due to the fact that its elements are mobile relative to each other
• Since the paving stones are not attached to the base, the path is very easy to maintain - a deformed slab can be easily removed and replaced (provided that a product of the same shape and size is in stock).

Such structures are also not without their drawbacks:

• if high-quality drainage is not provided, water flows poorly and accumulates; over time, a structure with a sand base may collapse, because water can wash away anything;
• the surface does not tolerate exceeding permissible loads - if you drive along a pedestrian path in a car, the result can be very disastrous;
• Owners of garden plots often complain that ants drag away sand in significant quantities from under the paving stones.