Introduction to Block Paving
About Block Paving
Uses and Applications
Block paving has increased in popularity for residential and commercial applications. Over the last few years manufacturers have gained and increased the supply of blocks by using new production techniques and mass orders. This has made blocks readily available for all types of applications. The costs involved in block paving has decreased and made it more affordable for homeowners to implement a paving application on their property. Landscape blocks paving helps to create an individual style on a property. It can be used for the following residential applications:
- Driveways
- Pathways
- Walkways
- Patios & Courtyards
- Sidewalks
- Landscaping Pavements
- Masonry Stairs
Commercial applications of block paving have also increased in popularity as an alternative to asphalt paving. Some common applications include airport runways, car parks, public walkways, sidewalks and curbing. The design possibilities of block paving are enormous and only limited by your imagination.
Types of Block Pavers
Block paving generally uses pavers of all shapes and sizes. The main materials used for block paving includes concrete, brick and stone. Concrete pavers are a man made material which is manufactured out of a cement mixture which is set into various molded shapes and sizes. Iron oxide pigments can be added for color. Bricks pavers are made from clay, shale and silica. This mixture is fired under high temperatures to ensure all ingredients for a solid paver. They are of a traditional reddish tone but can also be found in other colors, shapes and sizes. Natural stone pavers are also a common material which is quarried and cut to shape or size. Their coloring is unique which adds individuality to any type of application.
Laying Block Paving
Block paving is a relatively easy application if the installer has a good knowledge and intermidiate experience level regarding block paving. Block paving applications require a firm edge to be surrounded by to ensure the paving is not vulnerable throughout. Once the area which is going to be paved is set out it needs to be leveled accurately. Ensuring that the area is level is important and making sure that water will be drained away from the home is also important.
A base material used should be compacted thoroughly before the paving blocks are be applied. Choose a method for installation which will best suit the type of paving application. Flexible paving is done without the use of a mortar. Mortar is best suited for paving application which require stability such as driveways. Lay each course in the recommended pattern starting from a corner working your way upwards.
Block Paving Maintenance
Block paving maintenance is relatively simple. The type of maintenance tasks will greatly depend on the type of material. Generally maintenance tasks should be conducted by homeowners on a regular basis to ensure the up keeping of the block paving applications. General tasks include:
- Sweep over the paving to remove leaves,
dirt and dust on a weekly basis. - Removing stains caused by animals, cars, dirt or grime will ensure that the paving surface material will look at its best constantly.
- Checking the pavement to see if there are any blocks in need of repairs.
- Washing the paving with water to further remove dirt and grime once it has been swept thoroughly.
- Refilling joints with sand if need be.
- Ensuring joint material is in good condition.
Following a good maintenance system will further prolong the life of the block pavement. A sealant can be used on block paving applications to protect the surface and coloring of the block material. There are many different types of sealants available which best suit concrete, brick and stone blocks. Sealing is recommended to be done after installation and once a year after that.