There are many types of tracks. Some are bad in operation, but for the installation of others, you will have to call specialists. But a high-quality path is not one that is good to walk on, but one that does not need to be repaired. We will tell you about four coating options that do not require special skills for installation, their pros and cons.
1. Crushed stone, gravel, drainage paths
Gravel and crushed stone are convenient materials with which you can embody any design solutions. Including winding trails with different turning radii. Tracks with stones of contrasting colors, edging, patterns look great. Only for this you need to make the sides so that the gravel does not mix. The composition with crushed stone and gravel combines flat stones, paving slabs, and wooden elements. These paths look more natural, and the fine gravel softens the lines.
Advantages:
-availability of materials;
-easy to lay;
-the possibility of local repair, if, for example, the backing is torn or the sides have slipped;
- unlimited design solutions in shape and color.
Disadvantages:
-the coating will not turn out to be monolithic and smooth, stones can fall into the shoes, and it is uncomfortable to walk barefoot;
- with improper soil preparation, it may sink;
-requires thorough cleaning of the soil from the roots of plants, seeds, and in the process of operation you will have to choose leaves;
-Suitable only for flat areas and gentle slopes, but not for steep slopes.
2. Wooden paths
This option will complement any landscape, because wood looks natural in a variety of designs. Tracks made of hammered boards are one of the most popular design options. The main thing is to install them on a solid surface, raised above ground level. Another solution is to lay out a path from saw cuts or ordinary logs. Only they should not have bark, and the side that will sink into the soil must be treated with bitumen.
Advantages:
-harmony with the surrounding space, look great with greenery of plants, grass;
-ecological friendliness, as wood does not emit toxic substances;
- ease of installation.
Disadvantages:
- the high cost of natural wood;
- fragility - no matter how good the material is, it does not belong to the category for life;
- it is necessary to treat with anti-rotting agents every year;
- after rain, the tracks may slide.
3. Concrete mosaic
For fans of original solutions - a great option. In fact, this is the same concrete path, only embossed and poured in certain shapes. In the same way, you can make imitation of stone and other natural materials. If you want extraordinary solutions, add bright pigments to the solution.
Advantages:
- only you influence the quality of concrete and its additives, therefore, it is in your hands to create a strong and durable material;
- no special skills are required for installation;
- the originality and versatility of the tracks - the ability to experiment with the thickness and shape of concrete.
Disadvantages:
- the process is not fast, as the concrete must set well. It is advisable to use several forms, otherwise the laying of the tracks will take weeks from one.
4. Geotracks
These are pre-made grates made of plastic, concrete or metal, which are filled with gravel or sown with lawn grass. The load is transferred to the edges of the cells, and the mesh fixes the soil and aggregate. This option is suitable even for difficult terrain. The filler can be combined. One of the popular options is to sow part of the path with grass, and lay gravel on the other or mix them together.
Advantages:
-simple and convenient option;
-tracks look natural and resemble trodden paths;
-are cheaper than tiles or other materials;
-modules are assembled like puzzles, so there will be no problems with installation.
Disadvantages:
-you will have to follow the grass on the trails and cut it regularly, and with active use, it is completely trampled;
-after the rain, you risk getting your feet wet.
We also recommend reading about 4 Proven Ways To Rebuild Support Beams Without Major Overhaul.