Garden path with concrete slabs - simple and inexpensive
Concrete slabs are a solid and, above all, cheap solution for paving paths in the garden.
They are available in many different shapes and colors. However, you should pay attention to a few things when laying in order to be able to enjoy the flagstone path in the long term.
In this article you will learn everything about the advantages and disadvantages, installation and maintenance of concrete pavers for garden paths.
👍 Advantages of concrete slabs
A garden path made of concrete slabs has some positive properties:
- Cheap price
- Concrete slabs are among the cheapest path coverings for the garden.
- Ease of laying compared to paving stones
- Anyone can lay concrete slabs
- Large selection - There are a variety of shapes, colors and designs.
- Suitable for every purpose.
👎 Disadvantages of concrete slabs
However, there are also a few disadvantages that need to be considered:
- Less natural look
- Concrete looks more artificial than natural stone or wood.
- Limited design options
- Only limited customization through colour/shape possible.
- Lower Longevity - Susceptible to algae
- In the case of frost and heavy loads, concrete slabs can break.
What types of concrete slabs are suitable for a garden path?
Various types of concrete slabs can be used to construct a garden path. These include
- paving slabs
- Terrace slabs made of ceramic, fine stone etc.
- Somewhat higher quality, more variety of colors and shapes.
- special plates
- Eg seamless large formats or special designs.
Step-by-step instructions for laying concrete slabs in the garden
prepare the ground
First remove the turf and remove the top layer of soil down to solid ground.
Compact the subsoil with a tamper or vibratory plate. He must later be able to bear the burden.
Check the drainage. If the soil is poorly permeable to water, it is better to lay a drainage system made of gravel and drainage pipes.
Then apply a layer of grit 3-4 cm thick with a grain size of 2-5 mm. Smooth and compact them as well.
Lay concrete slabs professionally
When laying the concrete slabs, please note the following points:
- Choose laying pattern
- Lay out the concrete slabs butting and fitting them precisely.
- Align them exactly with the spirit level.
- Using a rubber mallet, lightly tap the slabs into the bed of gravel so that they are firmly seated.
- Fill joints with grit
- Smooth out the entire surface.
- Compress again.
- This creates a level, solid and durable path surface from the concrete slabs.
More garden path ideas
- Garden path with gravel
- Garden path with bark mulch
- Garden path with wood
- Garden path with natural stones
- Garden path with paving stones
Cost of a concrete slab garden path
Rough estimate of the costs you will incur. We estimated the prices and briefly compared them with a few providers.
| position | Costs |
|---|---|
| concrete slabs | 15-30 € per m2 |
| substructure | 10-20 € per m2 |
| laying | 10-20 € per m2 |
| edge attachment | 5-15 € per m |
| grit for joints | approx. 2-5 € per m2 |
| Tool | €50-150 |
FAQ: Building a garden path from concrete slabs
1. Which concrete slab is best for paths?
Classic gray paving slabs are robust and inexpensive. Terrace slabs in different colors and shapes for a better look.
2. Can non-professionals lay concrete slabs themselves?
Yes, with a little manual skill this is easily feasible. Careful preparation of the substrate is important.
3. How do I grout the concrete slabs correctly?
With fine grit or sand. Hammer in the panels lightly, fill up the joints completely, compress again and smooth off.
4. How do I prevent weeds between the panels?
By neatly filling the joints with chippings. Use weed fleece if necessary. Regular cleaning.
5. How often do I have to clean the plates?
Remove moss and weeds at least once a year. Sweep or hose down every few months depending on how dirty it is.
More helpful answers for a garden path
Conclusion - concrete slabs are suitable for garden paths and are cheap
Concrete slabs are solid, cheap and easy to lay yourself. With the right subsurface preparation and careful execution, this creates a robust path for the garden. Regular cleaning and care are important for longevity.