Pavers are the ideal product for environments where the soil temperatures varies from season to season. Proper installation of the product results in a pavement that is rigid yet flexible. The joints between pavers allow the walkway, driveway, patio, etc. to move without cracking. In addition, they can be "unzipped" to allow for repairs or access to utilities. Unlike asphalt or concrete, pavers are virtually maintenance-free and do not need to be regularly sealed or replaced. By definition, concrete pavers have a minimum compressive strength of 8,000 psi (about 3 times stronger than regular poured concrete) and a maximum water absorption rate of 5%.
Why are they called interlocking concrete pavers? (click here to read Frequently Asked Questions About Pavers)
It is the system that makes them interlocking concrete pavers, not necessarily the shape. When installed properly, the combination of the pavers, bedding sand, edge restraint and joint sand causes them to interlock, allowing them to work as a unified, flexible pavement.
How
much modified stone base material is need?
As a rule of thumb, a minimum of 4-6" of base material for walkways and patios, and 8-12" for driveways. The sand setting bed should be 1" thick.
How do pavers compare with patterned or stamped concrete?
Patterned concrete pavements are merely slabs of concrete that are embossed with a pattern. Therefore, they are prone to the same problems cycles, namely cracking and spalling. Pavers won't crack or spall. Stamped concrete requires expansion (control joints) joints every 10 feet or so which are very distracting in some patterns. Also, unlike Pavers, patterned concrete pavements don't allow access to underground utilities or the ability to make repairs. So clearly concrete are a superior choice.
What are the advantages of sealing my pavers?
Sealers offer three advantages: they help resist stains, enhance the color, and bind the sand in the joints to make it difficult for weeds to germinate. Sealers, however, are topical products and must be reapplied regularly (generally every 3-5 years).
Will
weeds grow between my pavers?
Weeds and grass result from seeds or spores blowing into and lodging in the joint sand. This can be minimized by sealing the pavers or mixing a pre-emergent granular weed killer into the joint sand. If they do appear, a spot vegetation killer (such as Round-Up™) can be used and will not damage the pavers.
What can I do if my pavers are stained or damaged?
One of the advantages of pavers is that individual units can be removed and replaced in these situations. Remove the sand around the paver and then use two a paver extractor or flat head screwdrivers to lift the paver out. Rocking the paver gently in a back and forth motion will facilitate removal.
Can
Pavers be used for my driveway?
Absolutely! 8" to 12" of compacted base material is recommended for residential driveways. A standard 2-3/8" thick paver can be used for light vehicular (cars and pickup trucks) applications. A herringbone pattern is most suitable in these situations.
I have an existing concrete walkway that's
in pretty good shape. Can Pavers be laid over the top?
While doing this is not the preferred method, pavers can be laid on top of existing concrete walkways. Two issues must be addressed. First, the grade will be raised by about 3" (the thickness of the pavers plus the bedding sand). This is particularly critical if any doorways are involved. Secondly, if the existing concrete slab should raise or drop due to weather conditions the pavers will do the same.
How
about using Pavers on my pool deck?
Not only do Pavers make an attractive pool deck, but they also provide a slip resistant surface to walk on. Pavers actually are better than poured concrete around pools from the standpoint that the joints will take on moisture and leave the pavement cooler under foot. Like all products that are used outdoors, lighter colors will tend to stay cooler as they reflect the sunlight. Furthermore, our Bullnose Pavers make a nice pool coping.
Pavers are versatile and adaptable to the most diverse shapes imaginable and are produced in a wide selection of colors, textures and curves to make virtually any design concept possible.
For more information please contact us at (281) 340-9206 or go to our online request form.
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