Tiling is one of the most popular methods for paving walkways. There is a vast selection of shapes, colors, and pre-designed pattern sets available. Tiles are made from a variety of materials, with concrete being the most commonly used.
First and foremost, when choosing tiles, it’s essential to consider their resistance to temperature fluctuations, moisture absorption, and loads. Seasonal freezing and thawing also impact durability. For concrete tiles, a standard range is typically between 150 to 200 cycles, which is usually indicated on the manufacturer’s packaging.
The permeability of concrete paving stones is only about 6%. Their strength is determined by their thickness. For roads with heavy traffic, paving stones with a thickness of 100-120 mm are used, while for regular pathways, a thickness of 60-80 mm is sufficient.
Properly laid tiles also affect the lifespan of the pathway. The curb is usually installed before laying the tiles; it is essential to prevent the pathway from spreading.
If the tiles are being laid on a concrete base, a slight slope is permissible to allow water to drain off, preventing it from accumulating on the walkway’s surface. In other cases, a drainage system is used.