Interlocking pavers are most commonly made from cement or concrete, and tend to simulate the effects of cobblestone pathways. They can be used as a replacement to concrete and bricks to create various concrete features in residential and commercial properties. They are simple to install, replace, or maintain, which causes them to be more financially viable. Undoubtedly, one of the most vital characteristics of this material- is its rigidity and sturdiness; it is able to endure constant freeze-thaw conditions, in addition to weighty loads. These characteristics make them useful in parking areas, streets, loading docks and driveways.
Meanwhile, permeable interlocking concrete pavers assure considerable reduced storm water runoff, making them environment friendly. This leads to other advantages, such as a lesser need for drainage pipes, gutters, and curb systems. Slip-resistant interlocking materials are also useful in areas such as walkways and pool decks. Interlocking pavers also aid in stabilising loose soil and making areas such as driveways or parking lots more scenically appealing by allowing vegetation to grow in their hollow centers.
This versatile building material also comes in a wide range of designs, textures, and colors and is therefore ideal for those who wish to attain a personalized or custom look in properties such as shopping malls and patios. By combining colors, designs, and shapes, it is possible to come up with themes like a herringbone pattern, Natural Stone, Old World, modern, or contemporary. The endless options are restricted only by one’s imagination.
Installing Interlocking Pavers
Interlocking pavers can easily be laid and maintained at home by a homeowner because a mortar or grout is not required- saving the homeowner on installation costs. The single specialized tool required in the installation of interlocking pavers is a tamping machine called a vibrator. This machine vibrates the minute spheres of sand until they are at their most compact. Advantageously, the sand does not readily wash out with rain or garden hose water. An additional sealer may be used, but many interlocking pavers are already pre-sealed. A driveway would definitely benefit from a sealer because it would prevent stains from oil and tire marks.
Firstly, a hole to the depth of 2-4” (5-10cm), depending on the tile’s thickness, is dug in the section that is going to be paved. Then, a thin layer of gravel and thick layer of sand are placed on the area to make the surface level. The pavers are then set on top according to the planned layout.
Instead of connecting the pavers, as tiles would be, by pouring grout in between the joints, fine sand particles are simply tamped down. The sand stabilises the interlocking pavers while allowing for some flexibility- resulting in the pavement being able to absorb stress from small earthquakes, freezes and thaws, or slight ground erosion by shifting each tile by only a fraction.
Due to their vast array of benefits, interlocking pavers are one of the most valued paving and landscaping materials among builders, engineers, landscaping companies, and property owners.
