Table of Contents
What is Block Paving?
Block paving, sometimes termed as brick paving, is a popular ornamental method for laying down a surface or hard-standing. The primary advantage of utilizing bricks over other materials is that individual blocks may be raised and exchanged when damaged or worn.
Block pavers have been used for centuries. Pavers were used by the Romans to create walkways and roadways as early as 500 BC. In 1940s Holland, the paver block in its present form became fairly popular. The material was widely accepted in Germany, much of Europe, and the United States in the following decades.
The bricks used are generally constructed of concrete or clay, with the addition of various composite elements. The most popular concrete type blocks are composed of porous materials; many are produced from recycled resources such as smashed glass and old construction rubble.
Many various laying styles may be achieved by using blocks; one of the most common is the herringbone style, which provides the strongest connection owing to its interconnecting.
Where can block paving be installed?
Driveways, pavements, patios, walkways, and road surface are all examples where block paving can be installed. Due to the variety of shapes and options available, it can be a fashionable addition to any home; it is also a popular choice for patios for similar reasons. Because of the robustness of the interlocking and the flexibility to replace individual blocks, it’s a wonderful surface option for pathways and roadways in low-traffic regions.
Why block paving is a good option?
Because of the numerous benefits it offers, block paving is the preferred surface alternative. Although more expensive than other options, it may last longer when properly maintained.
- Individual blocks, according to science, provide a flexible structure for absorbing live and dead loads from stationary and moving people and vehicles.
- Block pavers are simple to install and maintain because replacement is limited to only a few broken bricks.
- Brick and natural stone block pavers have been used for ages, so they have a timeless appeal.
- Clay, stones, and cement-concrete block building materials are practically universally available and inexpensive.
- Blocks provide a wide range of design possibilities and the ability to complement your construction concept or surroundings.
If you are living in Blackpool, Fylde or Barrow in Furness, you can contact Advanced Driveway Solutions for this work.
Types of block paving
Around the world, there are three main forms of block paving.
Clay Brick Block paving
Kiln-fired clay bricks are the oldest type of block pavement known on the planet. Clay pavers with specific treatments and sizes can be designed by house brick producers. The following size variations were discovered:
- 60x60mm- cobbles
- 150x150mm-setts
- 300x300mm-square
However, the most common size in the United States and internationally is 100x200x60mm, with modest variations.
During the lengthy kiln process, clay blocks develop natural colors that include brown, red, buff, grey, blue, and a variety of other tints. Aside from this, clay block pavers have natural textures and other features similar to clay bricks.
Concrete block paving
Molded cement-concrete blocks were discovered for several millennia after CBP (concrete block pavers) became popular. Concrete-cement moulding allows for an infinite number of color, shape, size, and texture variations. It allows you to replicate any form of block paving, including clay and stone block pavers.
A standard concrete block paver, on the other hand, is 200mm long, 100mm wide, and 50mm to 100mm deep. Most conventional brands have chamfered edges and spacer lugs.
To avoid color-related expenditures, we can integrate colors and varying hues throughout the mass of concrete block pavers or merely offer treatments to faces open to the external.
Natural stone block paving
Natural stone block pavement is currently popular due to improved demand and supply conditions. The worldwide distribution network has increased availability and reduced costs. When compared to other materials, improved technology from quarrying to finishing have made natural stone pavers accessible to anybody.
- Natural stone block pavers are available in both regular and bespoke sizes.
- Stone blocks with dimensions of 200mm x 100mm x 50mm with a variance of 1mm are commonly available on the market.
- Stone block pavers have non-skid surface treatments such as tumbled and honed.
- Dimensional precision and smooth or sharp edges enable tidy and tight-fitting in any design to provide a seamless surface experience.
How block paving is installed?
Block paving begins with site preparation and excavation. Depending on the property and whether or not there is an existing road, the site will need to be assessed and dug. If you have soft terrain or soft places, you may need to build a sub base to give a more sturdy foundation.
The site will need to be edged out so that you have a defined area in which to dig and lay out the block paving; every block paving comes with a standard sub foundation. The area will be compacted with a compactor, and then a layer of sharp sand will be spread on top, which will be raked and tested for levelness with string lines and screeding rails.
The installer will next begin laying the block paving, ensuring that it is set out in the required pattern and that the colors flow in a suitable manner for the chosen design. They will employ blocks from several packs to avoid having visible differences in the shading of color patches.
After the blocks have been set, kiln dried sand will be brushed into the joints and compressed using a vibrating plate to reinforce the interlocking and ensure the blocks are laid level. The procedure will be repeated to verify that no joints are left unfilled.
How to maintain/clean block paving?
Once installed, medium upkeep is required. Occasionally sweep to eliminate dust and debris. Green algae may be safely eliminated by washing or, according to our sources, by swishing the area with Jeyes Fluid to kill the algae, which can then be swept away after a few days. Because the high-pressure water jet loosens jointing and might damage some pavings, pressure washer use should be confined to very unclean pavements and no more than once a year.
To prevent mosses and weeds from establishing themselves in the sand joints, we recommend treating block or brick pavement twice a year with a general weedkiller such as Glyphosate.
Clay pavers are more susceptible to algal growth on the surface than concrete blocks. If this happens, it should be cleaned frequently (in the spring and autumn) since it can become rather slippery. In a garden environment, where the clay bricks may ‘age’ drastically with the advent of mosses during a single season, these phenomena can be used to your advantage. On heavily travelled locations, there is substantially less algae/moss build-up.
It’s worth mentioning that weeds grow INTO pavement rather than through it, unless it’s been set incorrectly. The assertions made about the importance or utility of “weed barriers” beneath block paving are false and should be avoided.
To protect the finished pavement against color deterioration and oil leakage, a variety of sealants are available. The greatest sealants repel oils, mild acids, dirt, and weeds, while the cheapest ones are just varnish.
FAQs
How long does block paving sealant last?
If you use a good product and maintain the pavement frequently, your block paving sealant should last up to two years. If the sealer begins to fade after two years, a fresh coat can be applied.
Does jet washing damage block paving?
Block paving can be damaged by pressure washing.
As you may guess, jet washing your driveway or patio accelerate the weathering process, which is not good for the surface and reduces its lifespan.
What Colors do block paving come in?
Silver, grey, and charcoal have a fantastic natural appearance, are neutral, and usually go well with stone or brick. The look of Brindle and Buff is more rustic and modern. The classic block pavement colors of red and terracotta look great when going up to a red brick home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sealing block paving is a fantastic choice since it will protect your paving and the investment you put in your home while also guaranteeing your driveway or patio remains in excellent shape for many years to come.
