Rating of the best materials for garden paths for 2024

There is no modern suburban area where the territory adjacent to the house is not equipped with garden paths. They not only make people stay there comfortable, safe and cozy, but their appearance cheers up. There are many options for making paths. They vary in size, design, popularity of the material used, as well as average price.

For a long time you can list what garden coverings are. The selection criteria are different for everyone. Some prefer to choose the budget option, others - popular models that lead 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 fairly long period. Therefore, the question of choice must be taken seriously in order to avoid mistakes.

There is no unambiguous answer to the question of which company is better to buy products. You can review the goods offered by the best manufacturers, study the opinion of buyers, 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", this is the most suitable option. It is very popular among people with average incomes. Despite the low price, the product has a lot of advantages, including self-styling, even in the absence of step-by-step instructions.

Manufactured from:

• medium-fraction sand (washed and calcined at a significant temperature) - 73 - 75%;
• crushed polymers (polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene) - 22 - 25%;
• astringent additives 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 drops and heavy loads;
• self-assembled;
• a lot of varieties;
• anti-slip surface;
• can be carefully dismantled, and then reinstalled.

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

Wood

For suburban paths, using wood is the best option. It is not only beautiful, but also comfortable. You can run on them barefoot 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 the tracks can serve for more than half a century.
2. Larch. The breed fully copes with the indicated functions. It is considered one of the best breeds that will not rot over time due to its increased resistance to humid and damp environments. What should you pay attention to when choosing a flooring? On pronounced annual rings, which create an unusual pattern on the cut.
3. Poplar, aspen or pine. Before deciding which material for garden paths is better to buy, it should be noted that the described breeds belong to the soft category. Special treatment compositions and proper maintenance of the structure will help to increase the operational life.
4. Rocks 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 vegetation present;
• environmental friendliness;
• complete safety for humans;
• over time, the original color will change;
• simplicity of installation work (no special financial costs are required, as a beginner can perform the upcoming manipulations).

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

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

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 a flooring above the surface of the soil, no matter what type and quality it is.
Additional protection	The lower part of the decoration elements should be treated with bituminous mastic.
Treatment	In order for the material not to lose its presentation soon, all wooden surfaces are opened with linseed oil (hot) twice before laying. After being absorbed, the substance will improve the initial moisture-protective properties and extend the "lifespan" of the material.

Concrete

We are talking about a sand-concrete mixture that will allow you to make garden paths yourself, 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 with a size of 30x30 cm 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 slabs of any 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 work to be done;
• durability;
• resistance to external factors such as frost and slush.

• serious preparatory work;
• time costs;
• such a structure is classified as capital;
• the need for the installation of formwork;
• cracking is possible when soil is displaced.

Lawn grill

Often, in this way, people seek to improve the local area. Such lawns will always look well-groomed and noble. The grass is delicate, so any stress on its surface should be excluded. Otherwise, the coating will quickly deteriorate. Walking on the lawn will also trample the blades of grass.The solution to the problem was found by foreign manufacturers who have developed such a material as a lawn grate. This allows you to preserve the excellent appearance of the coating even in places where there is a lot of traffic. On its basis, parking lots, sports and playgrounds, as well as pedestrian paths are made.

The set will cost 700 rubles and more.

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

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

Garden parquet

With a good owner, the external decoration of the territory is not much different from the decor of the house. 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 a type of coating such as WPC tiles or wood-polymer composite. Today, the coating is confidently in demand among buyers and has already overtaken the paving slabs familiar to many in popularity.

This type of structure 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 a product ranges from 200 to 900 rubles.

• resistance to chemicals;
• a heat treatment step makes the material resistant to salt solutions;
• ease of installation work;
• It does not require special care;
• anti-slip properties;
• a 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 significant area has to be covered with garden parquet;
• over time, tarnishing of the upper layer is observed;
• lack of resistance to small scratches, which negatively affect the appearance of the structure.

Even if a comparative table is drawn up, consisting of the advantages and disadvantages of such a product, such spending 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, there are numerous photos of finished works proposed by eminent landscape designers.

Middle price segment

Asphalt

The first thought that visits the owner of the dacha, who is trying to maintain balance on wet dirt tracks after rain, is to make them asphalt. And one should not think that they will be as "gray" as in the city. Today there are many retail outlets where you can buy beautiful and quality colored asphalt. It can also be ordered online without leaving your home.

There are two ways to make tracks attractive:

1. Conclude an agreement with a specialized brigade, and they, using a bulldozer on a caterpillar track, will level certain areas and asphalt them in a short time.
2. Independently, using available tools.

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

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

• significant are not established.

Marble chips

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

• dust (up to 0.1 mm);
• flour (0 - 2.5 mm);
• screenings (0 - 5 mm);
• marbled rice (2.5 - 5 mm);
• marble crushed stone (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 pots and flowerpots;
• decoration of sculptures, fountains, gazebos;
• construction of driveways, paths and paths;
• for mulching;
• construction of alpine slides.

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

• durable;
• excellent performance properties;
• ecological cleanliness;
• frost resistance;
• does not absorb moisture;
• endures any whims of nature;
• fireproof and fireproof;
• a good selection of colors;
• does not allow the soil to dry out or overheat;
• prevents weeds from growing;
• there are different factions.

• significant are missing.

Rubber tile

Probably tops the rating of the most popular modern garden coatings. 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 smooth.
• the mixture is poured into molds and pressed by hot or cold pressing.

It is divided into the following types:

1. Multilayer. Placed directly on gravel, sand or soil. Thickness - more than 40 mm.
2. Two-layer. Differs in a variety of shades and shapes. 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.

Slabs with sides of 50 x 50 cm and a thickness of 10 mm look the most beautiful. Next to the pool, it is worth choosing products with a thickness of 15 - 20 mm, sports grounds are refined with plates 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 significantly higher.

Manufacturers offer their goods to buyers at a negotiated price, depending on the volume and characteristics.

• 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 washable using special abrasive products;
• will last more than half a century;
• excellent sound insulation properties;
• can be easily repaired;
• unique compositions are simply created.

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

Clinker brick

Unlike asphalt, it allows the soil to be oxygenated and enriched with rainwater. The material is completely safe and environmentally friendly, does not pollute the environment. Laying it will make the site more well-groomed and easier to move. It is produced by firing in furnaces with a high temperature index, which makes it possible for the clay to become a monolithic durable stone. Mixing with different formulations allows you to make products in 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 handle a load of 500 kg per square meter;
• significant frost resistance;
• low water absorption;
• fire safety.

• substantial cost.

Sidewalk tile

It is recommended to ennoble various territories with this material. The purpose of laying is zoning of plots, 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. She should not be afraid of significant temperature changes, able to withstand significant loads, and have a long service life.

Before purchasing a product, pick up a sample and study it carefully:

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

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;
• easy to use;
• high aesthetics;
• a large selection of colors;
• good value for money.

• significant are missing.

Premium class

Paving stones

Natural stone with a lot of advantages. Paving stones have been laid on the main streets of large cities since time immemorial. And up to now we have reached the roads in Europe, lined with natural stone. More than one generation of people will survive such an amazing coating, without losing its attractiveness, firmness, power and original properties. The most durable paving stones are shale, marble, basalt and granite.

Despite the constant impact of aggressive environments, such as precipitation, alkalis and acids, it remains as strong as a hundred years ago. The stone is not afraid of strong winds and the scorching sun, severe frosts and torrential rains. In the dark it does not rot, in the sun it does not fade. Withstands significant pressure, therefore 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 rub off;
• will serve for many centuries;
• resistant to significant physical exertion;
• not afraid of chemically active elements;
• an aesthetic and beautiful appearance of the site is obtained;
• styling is not particularly difficult;
• it is convenient and simple to operate.

• insignificant indicator of sound insulation;
• will need significant funds to pay for the services of the hired team;
• high quality drainage is required when laying.

Natural embankment

Very nice, but not practical enough option for garden paths. It is laid only in order to decoratively zone individual parts of the garden, for example, to separate the flower beds from the alpine hills. Sand, sawdust, bark, gravel, crushed stone are suitable for the concept of "natural embankment".

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

• easy and quick to lay;
• there is no need for specialized equipment;
• large selection of colors and sizes of fractions;
• it will turn out to make an individual design;
• ecological cleanliness;
• decorativeness;

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

Roll lawn

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

The average cost of a product 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 herbs;
• the grass is designed for constant walking on it;
• it is not necessary to have a flat horizontal surface. Fits perfectly on steep slopes.

• you need constant quality care;
• shaded areas are not suitable;
• negatively refers to sandy soil;
• need daily watering;
• requires regular removal of the formed 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 scarifying and aeration;
• involves a regular haircut, combing, feeding.

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 negative properties.

Dealers offer the 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 going through significant temperature changes;
• easy to clean;
• long service life;
• a large selection of colors and textures;
• is fireproof;
• ecologicaly clean.

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

A natural stone

An excellent choice for those who prefer to surround themselves with high quality, reliable, durable, rich luxury items. Caring for it is not difficult, but the price of the product "bites" and not everyone can afford it. In order for such a coating to serve 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 track are outlined, after which a sufficiently deep trench is dug, at the bottom of which a cushion of rubble and sand is laid out (at least 10 cm). Everything is carefully compacted. The stone is laid not joint - in - joint, but with certain gaps, which are filled with turf or gravel. Many people adhere to this simple technology. To increase strength, the joints can be filled with concrete.

It should be borne in mind that it is best to plant conifers and shrubs on both sides of such paths. This natural material is not afraid of significant temperature changes, does not lose its original properties under bright sunlight and 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 serve for 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, which 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 corresponding calculations;
• cannot be laid on normal ground, a solid foundation is assumed.

Conclusion

Gone are the days when people went to the dacha to 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, barbecue and chat with friends. For 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 easy to walk on. They perfectly zone the territory.It is worth noting that if the flower beds and alpine slides can be redone every year, depending on the mood, abilities, imagination and preferences of the homeowners, then garden paths are made for decades. Therefore, their arrangement must be approached with all seriousness, competently determining their location, function and material.

Much attention should be paid to their functionality. If it is assumed that a large number of people are constantly moving 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 embankment is perfect.

Currently, there is no question of where to find the cover for the tracks. The problem arises when choosing a suitable option, when the eyes run up from the variety of proposals, for every color, taste and wallet. 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 and durable.