Garden Path with Irregular Paving Slabs: Step-by-Step Guide

Why build the path with irregular slabs?

Irregular natural stone slabs (opus incertum or planchoncillo) give any path an organic, rustic look, are non-slip and age very well. And because they have a uniform thickness, they are easier to lay than they look: you don't need to be a professional, just careful.

Materials you need

Irregular slabs (quartzite or slate), gravel or crushed stone for the base, sand for levelling, a string line and stakes to mark out the route and, if you want a defined edge, stone or concrete edging. Work out the path area (length × width) and add 5-10% for cuts. One pallet covers about 25 m².

Step by step

1. Mark out the route. Use stakes and string. A width of 80 cm to 1 metre allows comfortable walking; for main paths or if you use a wheelbarrow, 1 metre is better.
2. Dig out and prepare the base. Remove the topsoil to a depth of about 15 cm and compact the bottom. Spread a layer of gravel and compact it well to prevent settling.
3. Spread the sand bed. A layer of about 3-5 cm, levelled with a straightedge and sloped slightly so water drains away.
4. Do a dry layout. Before laying anything, arrange the pieces on the ground, combining large and small ones like a puzzle, with joints as narrow as possible.
5. Lay the slabs. Start at the edges and finish in the middle, tapping with a rubber mallet to set them and checking the level.
6. Fill the joints with fine sand or mortar, depending on use. Sweep and water so everything settles.

Free edge or straight edge

There are two options for the path. With free edges, the outline follows the natural shape of the pieces, ideal for natural gardens and gentle curves. With straight edges, you run a string line along each side and lay the edge pieces first in a straight line, then complete the middle like a puzzle. In that case you can leave the edge as it is or reinforce it with natural stone garden edging.

Quartzite or slate for the path

Quartzite (yellow, gold, bronze brown) is the favourite for paths because of its brightness and great durability. Grey or rust-coloured slate gives a more sober, modern result. You can see the full comparison, with prices per m², in our guide to opus incertum: price, types and installation.

Frequently asked questions

How wide should a garden path made of irregular slabs be?

A width of 80 cm to 1 metre allows comfortable walking. For main paths or if you will use a wheelbarrow, 1 metre is best.

What base do I need to lay irregular slabs in a path?

You need to remove the topsoil to about 15 cm, compact the bottom and spread a well-compacted layer of gravel. On top goes a sand bed of about 3-5 cm, levelled and sloped slightly so water drains away.

Do you need to be a professional to lay a path of irregular slabs?

No. Because the slabs have a uniform thickness, it is enough to be careful and to do a dry layout of the pieces first, combining large and small ones with narrow joints.

How many slabs should I buy for my path?

Work out the path area (length × width) and add 5-10% extra for cuts. One pallet covers about 25 m².

What is better for a garden path: quartzite or slate?

Quartzite (yellow, gold, bronze brown) is the favourite for paths because of its brightness and great durability. Grey or rust-coloured slate gives a more sober, modern result.

Find all the slabs in the irregular planchoncillo slabs collection.

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