Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are artificial stones used as finishing for patios, walkways, and driveways. Installation of both concrete paving or permeable pavers is simple. Personal taste usually dictates which type is chosen. Every home deserves paving that will stand the test of time while serving a purpose. ArchiPro has an amazing range of permeable and concrete pavers that meet these criteria.
Concrete Pavers
These paving stones boast of an aggregate and cement mixture. The wet mixture is poured into shapes of all sizes and pigmented. When compressed and air-cured, the mixture creates an ultra-strong result.
Advantages
Acquiring these pavers is less costly than other paving options. Naturally occurring material takes more work and resources before it is ready for the market. Installation costs can also be kept at a minimum by following manufacturer instructions. Maintenance costs are also on the lower end.
Concrete pavers offer more choice in terms of shape and colour. Both small and large concrete pavers can fit in with any design choice. Their colour variations blend in well with any decor to make an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Large concrete pavers also allow for more area coverage. This, when added to texture variations, facilitates additional creativity.
These pavers are a highly innovative option. The array of shapes, patterns, and colours, makes customization easier. This variety can be leveraged to add beauty to any setting. Concrete paving slabs offer cutting edge designs while maintaining functionality.
The flexibility in usage also means a visual appeal will be added to any design. The ease with which concrete paving can be installed is a major plus. Any ‘do-it-yourselfer’ only needs to follow manufacturer instructions and the deed is done. This is especially true for smaller projects.
Applications
Driveways can benefit from the use of concrete paving. Concrete is strong enough to support massive loads and can easily support the weight of a car. When reinforced with steel, concrete paving slabs are able to accommodate even the heaviest of traffic.
For outdoor patios, interlocking pavers are ideal since use can begin immediately. Another key take-home is that installed pavers can be removed for reinstallation. This is in case repairs or modifications need to be made. It is also applicable if the result of the previous installation is not pleasing.
Grass block pavers are a suitable divergence from the more traditional pavers. The provision for grass to grow through them offers a unique perspective. This type is ideal for nature lovers. Parking areas, driveways, and walkways can all find a use for grass block pavers.
Different Types
Interlocking
Interlocking pavers are perhaps the most practical of all paving stones. They are ideal for drivewaysDriveway Surfaces . This is due to the strong concrete mix that gives them enormous weight carrying capability. Their use also stretches to nearly any other surface. Their uniform joints are unique enough to fit in with any chosen design.
Concrete Paving Slabs
The concrete paving slab or architectural slab is an alternative that is more visually appealing. Its appearance is at the expense of what would have been its weight carrying ability. Their neatness is synonymous with the look offered by brick and stone.
Permeable Pavers
Permeable pavers are more suited to areas where rain runoff is frequent. Their extra-wide joints act as moulded-in drain holes for water to flow into the soil. When set on an extra-thick base of graded crushed stone, drainage is maximized. Permeable pavers lie on the more expensive side when compared to the former.
Care & Maintenance
Occasional maintenance is necessary to ensure pavers look up to date. Cleaning can typically occur every three to five years. This process should incorporate resealing too. A coarse brittle or stable broom, coupled with a paver cleaner, is very effective. This combination is bound to keep paving clean.
Weeds, when left to grow in between pavers, can shift them with time. Applying granular weed killer to the joints will keep weeds at bay. Power washers should be used with care. This is to prevent the aggregate sand under the pavers from being exposed.
It is also advisable to wait for at least 90 days before sealing pavers. This gives a chance for the elimination of any efflorescence that could appear after installation. Paver solutions are best applied to smaller areas as test sites. When desired results are confirmed, then the same can be repeated over larger areas.
Following instructions on any cleaning solutions is a must-do if disasters are to be averted. Spills, on the other hand, should be immediately removed with granular oil absorbent. Care should be taken not to rub but to soak them up gently instead. Rubbing them in drives the stains deeper.
De-icing substances should be used sparingly to prevent wear on some paver styles. Sealers should only be applied once every three years. Any more and the resulting film will discolour in sunlight.