Kafka’s Wax Polymer Pathway Mix creates natural aggregate surfaces that are less obtrusive than asphalt and cement, and using them in your construction or design project could gain your points toward LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) certification.

Furthermore, many of our natural aggregates are also sourced locally, which may aid in regional priority credits.

Standard Pathway Mix is ideal for low-traffic areas that call for a permeable and easy-to-manage pathway solution. This option doesn’t include any additives, but is crushed to the perfect size to warrant optimum compaction and drainage.

Stabilized Pathway Mix includes our aggregate mixed with an organic stabilizing binder. The addition of an organic binder enhances the durability of these pathways while not compromising its natural quality. These pathways remain permeable and work well in areas with slightly higher pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or in areas that require wheelchair accessibility.

The Wax Polymer Pathway Mix is the most durable pathway material offered by Kafka. Our crushed stone comes premixed with an engineered polymer that completely eliminates mud and dust. The addition of the engineered polymer creates an impermeable pathway, making it the ideal solution for areas that are steeply graded and prone to erosion.

The product is commonly shipped via bulk end-dump trucks and trailers, with an average truckload of material weighing approximately 23 tons — though the type of material and the size of the truck and trailer will cause this to fluctuate slightly. Less-than-truckload quantities are available in one ton increments, but may be subject to additional set-up fees due to small production runs.

If bulk truckload shipping is not an option, our Pathway Mixes can be packaged in ~3,000-pound super sacks. These 1½-ton bags provide easy transportation via flatbed, van, or LTL common carriers, and also facilitate easier storage and handling on job sites. Optional rain covers are also available. Specialty aggregates that are packaged in super sacks are available in 1 ton minimum orders and may be subject to set-up fees.

Wax polymer pathways can lend a highly desired natural aesthetic to virtually any space. While our Standard and Stabilized Pathway Mixes are not suitable for very steep areas, wax polymer pathways can withstand intense erosion and be laid on the steepest of hills.

From low- to high-traffic areas, flat to steeply graded hills, the engineered polymer used in this pathway mix is extremely durable and adaptable. These pathways can withstand areas which may have to endure lots of erosion or a dustless, sealed, non-permeable application is desired. Wax polymer pathways have become most popular for use at golf courses, as the product offers a more natural aesthetic than obtrusive blacktop or concrete, but can withstand the various terrain with minimal maintenance.

Commonly used for cart paths, pathways, patios, driveways and plazas, Kafka Granite’s Wax Polymer Pathways are good for a wide variety of applications, but most popular for use in hilly terrain where the Standard and Stabilized Pathway Mix are not recommended for use.

It is remarkably easy to install wax polymer pathways. This is a waterless pathway solution, which means that there is no need to mix the aggregate with water before installation.

1. Prepare. Ready the subgrade material prior to laying the wax polymer pathway. The subgrade should have a minimum 1.5% cross slope and should be compacted to at least 90%. Make sure to clear the subgrade of debris, nails, etc.
2. Edge. The use of curbing or edging for your pathway project is completely optional. However, if you choose to use any, ensure that the compacted polymer mix sits no further than ¼” below the top of the edging or curbing.
3. Spread. If you wish to have a final depth of 3”, loosely lay the pathway mix 4” deep. Spread the pathway mix where desired, ensuring it lies even and smooth before compacting.
4. Compact. Once your pathway material is laid where desired, it’s time to compact it. By using a 1-2 ton roller, go over the entire area. Misting the area lightly with water before compacting may help prevent material from sticking to the roller. However, avoid using the vibration mode. In tough-to-reach areas, making multiple passes with a vibratory plate compactor is acceptable. Your wax polymer pathway should be firm immediately after compaction, and the most-used areas will become even firmer with time.

The incredible durability of this pathway mix supplies a practically maintenance-free final product. Because the material retains flexibility, the product will not crack and crumble like asphalt or concrete. Over time, your pathway may darken with dirt and debris, but the surface can be refreshed by scarifying the surface 1/8” with a nail drag, then re-compacting.

Repairing wax polymer pathways is easy. Start by removing the damaged areas and squaring the edges and corners with a shovel. Lightly mist the newly exposed subgrade before filling in the area with fresh Wax Polymer Pathway Mix. Compact with a roller as you did during installation.