Ranking of the best materials for garden paths for 2022

There is no such modern suburban area, where the territory adjacent to the house would not be equipped with garden paths. They not only make people's stay there comfortable, safe and cozy, but their appearance is uplifting. There are many options from which you can make paths. They differ in size, design, popularity of the material used, as well as the average price.

You can list for a long time what garden coverings are. Everyone has different selection criteria. Some prefer to choose a budget option, others prefer popular models that top the rating of quality goods of this kind. Much depends on the financial condition of the person and on the direct functionality of the tracks. They, as a rule, are laid out, if not for centuries, then for a sufficiently long period. Therefore, the issue of choice must be approached seriously in order to avoid mistakes.

There is no single answer to the question of which company is better to buy products. You can review the offered goods by the best manufacturers, study the opinions of customers, get acquainted with the characteristics of the material used.

Inexpensive Options

Plastic tiles

For a personal plot that does not claim to be a "Medieval castle" - the most suitable option. It is very popular among middle-income people. Despite the low price, the product has a lot of advantages, including laying it with your own hands, even in the absence of step-by-step instructions.

Made from:

• medium fraction sand (washed and calcined at a significant temperature) - 73 - 75%;
• crushed polymers (polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene) - 22 - 25%;
• binders and inorganic dyes - from 1 to 2%.

The cost of production is from 100 to 300 rubles per unit.

• long service life;
• budget cost;
• perfectly tolerates temperature changes and heavy loads;
• independently mounted;
• a lot of varieties;
• anti-slip surface;
• can be carefully dismantled, and then reinstalled.

• afraid of aggressive drugs;
• with prolonged use, it loses brightness and color saturation;
• it is not recommended to lay in a garage or parking space;
• laying is carried out on a solution that is not included in the kit and must be purchased additionally;
• the need for a drainage system.

Wood

For country paths, the use of wood is the best option. It is not only beautiful, but also comfortable. You can run barefoot on them without fear of catching a cold. They will successfully fit into any landscape design. Various types of wood are used:

1. Oak. Differs in amazing durability thanks to which tracks can serve more than half a century.
2. Larch. With the indicated functions, the breed completely copes. It is considered one of the best breeds, which will not start to rot over time due to its increased resistance to a humid and damp environment. What should you pay attention to when choosing flooring? On pronounced annual rings, which create an unusual pattern on the cut.
3. Poplar, aspen or pine. Before you decide which material for garden paths is better to buy, it should be noted that the rocks described are classified as soft. Special formulations for processing and proper care of the structure will help to increase the operational life.
4. Breeds from the tropics. This type of decor is considered one of the most resistant to negative external factors.

The price ranges from 600 to 3500 rubles.

• original appearance (unique pattern of each element);
• natural material goes well with other decorative elements, including the presence of vegetation;
• environmental friendliness;
• complete safety for a person;
• over time, the original color will change;
• ease of installation work (special financial costs are not required, as the forthcoming manipulations can also be performed by a beginner).

• fragility, which is significantly reduced in the absence of proper care for the structure.

Numerous online stores offer a wide range of garden parquet, which has already passed all the necessary stages of processing, and is better protected from decay than other types of flooring.

Provided that it is planned to install garden paths from a saw cut or a regular board, you should listen to the following:

Advice	Description
Ventilation	To improve the circulation of air masses, it is recommended to make flooring above the soil surface, no matter what type and quality it is.
Additional protection	The lower part of the elements for decoration should be treated with bituminous mastic.
Treatment	In order for the material not to lose its presentation in a short time, before laying all wooden surfaces are opened with drying oil (hot) twice. Once absorbed, the substance will improve the initial moisture-proof properties and extend the "life" of the material.

Concrete

We are talking about a sand-concrete mixture, which will allow you to make garden paths on your own, at home. It should be noted that such a solution is considered one of the most popular materials for creating flooring. The size of the modules can be arbitrary, depending on the dimensions of the molds that were used for casting. Based on numerous reviews, plates of 30x30 cm in size are considered the most convenient to install. How much does a bag cost? Depending on the quality and name of the manufacturer, the price will range from 300 to 1500 rubles.

• this type of materials allows you to make plates of arbitrary size and shape;
• self-assembly;
• the ability to create elements of any configuration for the street or premises;
• excellent resistance to mechanical stress;
• budget cost;
• simplicity of the upcoming work;
• durability;
• resistance to external factors such as frost and slush.

• serious preparatory work;
• time costs;
• such a structure belongs to the category of capital;
• the need for installation of formwork;
• when the soil is displaced, cracks may form.

lawn grate

Often, in this way, people seek to ennoble the local area. Such lawns will always look well-groomed and noble. Grass is delicate, so any load on its surface should be excluded. Otherwise, the coating will quickly become unusable. Walking on the lawn will also trample the blades of grass. The solution to the problem was found by foreign manufacturers who developed such material as a lawn grate. This allows you to maintain a beautiful appearance of the coating, even in places where there is a lot of traffic. Based on it, parking lots, sports and playgrounds, as well as footpaths are made.

The set will cost 700 rubles and more.

• no need for subsequent care (lawn mowing is allowed without first removing the sections);
• practicality;
• resistance to weather conditions;
• environmental friendliness (raw materials do not contain harmful components);
• the load will not harm the coating;
• ease of installation.

• refraction of the lattice leads to the death of plants;
• a concrete grate on a sunny day can get very hot;
• after each rain, it is necessary to manually remove the accumulated liquid;
• over time, subsidence of the plates is observed.

garden parquet

For a good owner, the external decoration of the territory is not much different from the situation at home. High-quality garden paths made of parquet (special) are not a whim of wealthy people, but an affordable opportunity for an unusual design of the local area. We are talking about such type of coatings as WPC tiles or wood-polymer composite. To date, the coating is confidently in demand among buyers and has already overtaken the paving slabs familiar to many in popularity.

This type of construction is easy to install and guarantees a long service life of the coating. The technology is based on the use of a number of stabilizing components, polymers and wood powder.

The unit price of the product ranges from 200 to 900 rubles.

• resistance to chemicals;
• the heat treatment stage makes the material resistant to saline solutions;
• ease of installation work;
• It does not require special care;
• anti-slip properties;
• variety of textures and colors;
• operational period;
• resistance to deformation;
• no need for additional processing (impregnation);
• resistance to temperature extremes and humid environment;
• similar in quality to natural wood.

• cost, but only if a large area is to be covered with garden parquet;
• over time, tarnishing of the upper layer is observed;
• lack of resistance to small scratches, which adversely affect the appearance of the structure.

Even if a comparative table is compiled, consisting of the advantages and disadvantages of a similar product, such expenses will be justified. In most cases, this coating will be simply irreplaceable. A high indicator of reliability and decorativeness speaks in favor of garden parquet. A novelty in the world of building materials, it is suitable for both the garden and the terrace. And in confirmation of this, numerous photos of finished works offered by eminent landscape designers.

Middle price segment

Asphalt

The first thought that visits the owner of the cottage, trying to keep his balance on dirt paths that are wet after rain, is to make them asphalt. And do not think that they will be the same "gray" as in the city. Today, there are many outlets where you can buy beautiful and high-quality colored asphalt. It can also be ordered online without leaving home.

There are two ways to make tracks attractive:

1. Conclude an agreement with a specialized team, and they, with the help of a caterpillar bulldozer, will level certain areas and pave them in a short time.
2. Independently, using improvised means.

Products can be purchased for 250 rubles (1 kg).

• damaged areas can be repaired;
• neat coverage;
• perfectly decorate the appearance of the site;
• variety of shades;
• insignificant cost;
• easy to install;
• long service life.

• significant have not been established.

Marble chips

Belongs to the category of a by-product obtained from marble quarries. The product can be of different fractions:

• dust (up to 0.1 mm);
• flour (0 - 2.5 mm);
• screening (0 - 5 mm);
• marble rice (2.5 - 5 mm);
• crushed marble (5 - 10 mm - small, 10 - 20 mm - medium, 20 - 70 mm - large).

It is used in landscape design for the purpose of:

• decoration of flower beds and flower beds;
• decorating flowerpots and flowerpots;
• decoration of sculptures, fountains, pavilions;
• construction of driveways, paths and paths;
• for mulching;
• construction of alpine hills.

The price for the goods is set in the range from 400 to 1500 rubles per 1 kg.

• durable;
• excellent operational properties;
• ecological cleanliness;
• frost resistance;
• does not absorb moisture;
• endures any vagaries of nature;
• fireproof and fireproof;
• good choice of colors;
• does not allow the soil to dry out or overheat;
• does not allow weeds to grow;
• There are different factions.

• significant ones are missing.

Rubber tiles

Probably tops the ranking of the most popular garden coatings of our time. It is made from worn tires that go through the following stages of processing:

• crushed to a size of 4 mm;
• mixed with polyurethane solution and dye until a homogeneous mass.
• the mixture is poured into molds and pressed by hot or cold pressing.

It is divided into the following types:

1. Multilayer. It is laid directly on crushed stone, sand or soil. Thickness - more than 40 mm.
2. Double layer. Differs in a variety of shades and forms. Fits exclusively on a solid base. Thickness - 10 - 40 mm.
3. Single layer. Laying is carried out on concrete or asphalt. Has a thickness of up to 10 mm.

The most beautiful look plates with sides of 50 x 50 cm and a thickness of 10 mm. Near the pool, it is worth choosing products with a thickness of 15 - 20 mm, sports grounds are ennobled with slabs from 30 mm, children's play areas - over 40 mm.The joints between the elements are equipped with special plugs, which are not included in the kit. You can also buy rubber tiles, similar in properties to rubber. However, its cost is much higher.

Manufacturers offer their goods to buyers at an agreed price, depending on the volume and features.

• the product is environmentally friendly;
• does not have a specific smell;
• easy to install;
• can be laid without assistance;
• safe;
• non-slip surface
• does not rot;
• not afraid of temperature changes;
• easy to clean and wash using special abrasive products;
• will last more than half a century;
• excellent soundproofing properties;
• can be easily repaired;
• elementary unique compositions are created.

• from too high temperatures it can ignite, so it is not recommended to fry kebabs on such a coating and cook field porridge.

Clinker brick

Unlike asphalt, it allows you to saturate the soil with oxygen and enrich it with rainwater. The material is completely safe and environmentally friendly, does not pollute the environment. Its laying will make the site more well-groomed and convenient for moving. It is produced by firing in kilns with a high temperature index, which allows clay to become a monolithic durable stone. Mixing with different compositions allows you to make products of different colors.

The average price is from 20 rubles per piece.

• the variety of shapes and textures is impressive;
• high aesthetics;
• excellent wear resistance;
• durability;
• comfort;
• ease of use;
• strength;
• can cope with a load of 500 kg per 1 sq.m.;
• significant frost resistance;
• low water absorption;
• fire safety.

• significant cost.

Sidewalk tile

This material is recommended to ennoble various areas. The purpose of laying is the zoning of sites, the design of landscape design. It should be borne in mind that the issue of choosing a tile must be approached with all responsibility. The main selection criteria are external features and performance characteristics. It should not be afraid of significant temperature changes, be able to withstand significant loads, and have a long service life.

Before purchasing a product, take a sample in your hands and carefully study it:

• concrete must be homogeneous;
• the absence of cracks and voids is a prerequisite;
• the front side is painted qualitatively.

The manufacturer offers products at a price of 5 rubles per unit.

• easy to care for;
• easy to mount;
• long service life;
• environmentally friendly product;
• completely safe for human life and health;
• practical;
• convenient to use;
• high aesthetics;
• a large selection of colors;
• good value for money.

• significant ones are missing.

Premium class

paving stones

A natural stone with a lot of advantages. Paving stones have been laid on the main streets of large cities since time immemorial. And so far we have reached roads in Europe, lined with natural stone. Such an amazing coating will survive more than one generation of people without losing its attractiveness, hardness, power and original properties. The most durable paving stones are slate, marble, basalt and granite.

Despite the constant exposure to aggressive environments, such as atmospheric precipitation, alkalis and acids, it remains as strong as it was a hundred years ago. The stone is not afraid of strong winds and the scorching sun, severe frosts and heavy rains. In the dark, it does not rot, in the sun it does not fade. Withstands significant pressure, so it is most often laid out on highways with an active flow of heavy vehicles.

The price of products is from 100 to 11,000 rubles.

• does not blur, does not fade, does not crack, does not wear out;
• will last for many centuries;
• resistant to significant physical stress;
• not afraid of chemically active elements;
• an aesthetic and beautiful appearance of the site is obtained;
• installation is not particularly difficult;
• operate conveniently and simply.

• a slight indicator of sound insulation;
• significant funds will be needed to pay for the services of a hired brigade;
• when laying high-quality drainage is required.

Natural mound

Very beautiful, but not practical enough for garden paths. It is laid only in order to decoratively zone individual sections of the garden, for example, to separate flower beds from alpine slides. The concept of "natural embankment" includes sand, sawdust, tree bark, gravel, crushed stone.

Companies offer products at prices ranging from 150 to 20,000 rubles.

• simple and quick installation;
• there is no need for specialized equipment;
• a large selection of colors and sizes of fractions;
• it will be possible to make an individual design;
• ecological cleanliness;
• decorative;

• the need for constant care;
• service life is short;
• will not withstand heavy loads.

Rolled lawn

Currently, a very common option for decorating garden plots. A properly laid lawn will delight the eye throughout the warm season, allowing children to frolic on it, play football, set up tents, and sunbathe on mattresses.

The average cost of goods is from 200 to 20,000 rubles.

• fits throughout the season, until the end of autumn;
• immediately after installation can be used for its intended purpose;
• attractive natural appearance;
• not afraid of frost;
• when creating, beautiful carpet grasses are used;
• the grass is designed for constant walking on it;
• it is not necessary to have a flat horizontal surface. Works great on steep slopes.

• need constant quality care;
• shaded areas are not suitable;
• negatively relates to sandy soil;
• need daily watering;
• requires regular removal of the resulting felt, which can lead to disease and deterioration in appearance;
• high cost;
• the need to purchase with a large margin;
• permanent removal of weeds;
• you need to sprinkle with sand, do verticalization and aeration;
• involves regular haircut, combing, top dressing.

Porcelain stoneware

A very expensive, but reliable and high-quality coating that gives the site importance and comfort. It looks rich enough that it will not go unnoticed by visitors. But, in order to decide on such a purchase, it is necessary to analyze all the advantages and disadvantages.

Sellers offer goods at a price of 900 to 2000 rubles per 1 sq.m.

• excellent external data;
• strength;
• durability;
• he is not afraid of mechanical damage;
• not afraid of chemicals;
• has excellent moisture resistance;
• calmly survives significant temperature changes;
• easy to care for;
• long service life;
• a large selection of colors and textures;
• is fireproof;
• ecologicaly clean.

• too high price;
• due to the constantly cool surface, you can’t run much with bare feet on it.

A natural stone

An excellent choice for those who prefer to surround themselves with high quality, reliable, durable, rich luxury items. Caring for him is not difficult, but the price of the goods “bites” a lot and not everyone can afford it. In order for such a coating to last for a very long time, without changing the appearance and initial qualities, it is necessary to mount it correctly.

First, the dimensions of the future path are outlined, after which a sufficiently deep trench is dug, on the bottom of which a pillow of crushed stone and sand is laid out (at least 10 cm). Everything is carefully packed. The stone is laid not at the joint - at the joint, but with certain gaps, which are filled with turf or gravel. Many people follow this simple technology. To increase strength, you can fill the seams with concrete mix.

It should be borne in mind that on both sides of such paths it is best to plant coniferous trees and shrubs. This natural material is not afraid of significant temperature changes, does not lose its original properties under bright sunlight and in severe frosts, is the most durable and durable.

For such a product, you will have to pay from 10 to 15,000 rubles.

• retail outlets offer customers a large selection of this material;
• tracks can be laid out independently, without the involvement of outside labor;
• the material will last more than one century;
• does not lose its basic properties from frost and high temperatures;
• differs in wear resistance;
• belongs to the category of elite materials;
• suitable for creating any landscape design.

• it cannot be brought in a bag, due to its significant weight and massiveness, transportation is possible only using road transport;
• significant cost that not everyone can afford;
• before starting laying, it is necessary to develop a project in which to reflect a sketch of future tracks and their individual parameters, as well as indicate the appropriate calculations;
• can not be laid on ordinary soil, a solid foundation is assumed.

Conclusion

Gone are the days when they went to the dacha to first plant and then harvest vegetables and fruits. Today it is not just a place of hard physical labor, but also a great opportunity to relax in nature, enjoy the beauty of the landscape, fry barbecue and chat with friends. To do this, it is necessary to create comfortable conditions, including laying high-quality and comfortable paths, as an integral element of the garden plot.

They are not only comfortable to walk on. They perfectly zone the territory. It is worth noting that if flower beds and alpine slides can be redone every year, depending on the mood, abilities, imagination and preferences of homeowners, then garden paths are made for decades. Therefore, their arrangement must be approached with all seriousness, correctly determining their location, function and material.

Much attention should be paid to their functionality. If it is expected that a large number of people will constantly move along them or the passage of vehicles, then it is better to give preference to paving stones or paving slabs. In addition to this design, a natural mound is perfect.

Currently, there is no question of where to find the coating for the tracks. The problem arises when choosing the right option, when the eyes run wide from the variety of offers, for any color, taste and budget. When choosing a material, it is worth considering its durability and practicality. Garden paths should not only please the eye, but also be cozy, comfortable, durable.