Last week we exposed and explained some common paving misconceptions. Here are a few more paving misconceptions explained, that should put your mind at ease when deciding on using paving to enhance your prize possession – your home.
6. Paving is difficult to repair.
Because paving consists of individual bricks or pavers, each unit can be replaced when needed. If one paver becomes damaged, the system allows you to easily remove only that piece and replace it with a new one. This is a lot less expensive option than replacing an entire slab of concrete.
Another advantage is that if you should ever need to get access to underground utilities or fix a leaking pipe, you can do so relatively easily. The paving can be removed, the problem area fixed and then the pavers replaced, without even knowing there was a problem.
7. Weeds grow around and through paving.
Paving doesn’t encourage weed growth because paving is installed with sand, sealant or grouting that doesn’t leave space for weeds to grow. The weeds you might notice are a result of seeds that fall on top of the pavers and germinate. It’s also of utmost importance to have your paving installed by a reputable contractor so they stay put and don’t become loose, allowing germinating seeds to settle between newly exposed cracks.
Paving maintenance it as important as any home maintenance to keep it looking neat and tidy. To keep your pavers free of weeds, sweep your pavers and their cracks often so dirt doesn’t settle allowing fallen seeds to grow into weeds. You can also use a weed killer designed for paved areas and have a sealant applied to prevent weeds from growing on the sand between joints.
8. Paving isn’t strong enough to withstand parked cars, heavy traffic and more.
Paving can withstand at least 3 500 kilograms of pressure per square metre before material failure. This makes pavers about four times stronger than poured concrete. Pavers are also designed to transfer load stress over large areas, which allows for heavier weight and traffic in areas that normally would require heavily reinforced concrete.
Plus, due to the installation process and their interlocking system, paving stones are extremely flexible and are able to disperse the pressure or weight evenly, which prevents cracking.
Some paving materials are stronger than others, but most individual units are less susceptible to breakage because they are made to move with the earth. Our Consultants will assess your needs and recommend the correct paver for your installation.
Paving bricks also stand up very well to changes in the weather conditions with their ability to expand and contract without cracking.
