How to do without cement mix when laying paving slabs

What is the most expensive in construction and finishing work? This, of course, is cement. Often it takes a lot, and it takes, perhaps, most of the costs. This also applies to the formation of paths from paving slabs. However, in this case, it is possible to completely abandon the use of cement mixture. Many have successfully used paving slabs on a regular sand cushion.

To ensure such a laying, first a layer of crushed stone is laid on the surface. And a sand cushion is already being poured on it, which should go in a rather high layer - the whole structure (together with crushed stone) should rise half a meter above the surface.

Why is it impossible to lay the tile directly on the surface, even if it seems perfectly flat? Clay has the property of "swelling" when moisture gets on it. And it will certainly penetrate the tile during rain and snow. And then the styling will simply collapse. Crushed stone and sand protect the laying from this scourge.

When laying paving slabs on sand, a vibrating plate is used - a special device that allows you to ram the tiles.

Another advantage of clean sand under the tile is the ability to quickly and easily repair laying. One tile is easily taken out of its place and just as easily lowered back.

Sand is a relatively cheap material, and its purchase is widely available. In addition, paving slabs have a much higher cost, and the use of clean sand allows you to compensate for the high costs for it.

Some sources advise using the so-called scuffing mixture instead of the usual sand cushion. In this case, the sand is mixed with a small amount of cement. Proponents of this technology argue that a mixture of cement and sand can turn into something similar to concrete when water penetrates the installation with the first rains. Such a crust, in their opinion, provides additional protection against penetration of moisture into the clay. However, supporters of this method do not take into account that dry scuffing does not will turn into mortar or concrete, because this requires thorough mixing (usually in concrete mixer). There is another consideration: dry scuffing can eventually damage the paving slabs, which will occur under the influence of moisture. The reason for this is the similar composition of paving and paving slabs: the tile is also made of a mixture of sand and cement, but using a different technology. When contacting similar, but dissimilar materials, problems arise.