Generally, a block paving driveway adds beauty, appeal, and value to your home in comparison to any other type of pavement. Block paving is one of the most sought-after choices for customers who desire an enhanced look of their landscaping in terms of appearance as well as durability. This article will therefore discuss on the beauty and advantages of block paving driveway, how it is made and great ways on how to keep your driveway fresh for a number of years.
The advantages of block paving driveways
Durability and Strength:
It is a very hard-wearing material that can take a very heavy weight so it is perfect for use on driveways. The blocks themselves lock together creating a fundamentally stronger planar field on which the surface will not crack or shift over time.
Aesthetic Appeal:
For this reason, block paving is a versatile option when it comes to creativity and color, shape, and pattern deciding. You can make a driveway which can have a perfect blend with the architectural design of the house and garden or landscape, thus making the outlook of your home more appealing and equally giving it an air of class.
Versatility:
It is noteworthy that block paving is not only applicable to driveways alone but may also be applied as patios, pathways, and lawn roads. The former uniqueness paves for a consistent design all through your outdoors.
Easy Repairs:
Another advantage of the block paving is in repair; this can be undertaken easily without necessarily having to redo the entire process. Over time, if a block gets worn or discolored, it can be replaced with a new block whence removing just that block does not affect the remaining parts, meaning flexibility in maintenance is achieved.
Permeability:
Most kinds of block paving are designed to be porous and hence it is easy to manage water by letting it pass through the spaces between the blocks. This has a cushioning effect on water on the outer surface and minimizes flooding while at the same time improving drainage and environmental management.
The Installation Process
Planning and Design:
Design and planning should be the first steps you take when constructing your driveway. It is also important to think about the likeness you have to make and its color and the pattern of stripes and any bandings like borders or edging.
Preparation:
Block paving driveway can only be achieved if preparations are well done and the below are some of the important preparation tips that should be followed. To prepare the site for construction, the ground has to be leveled to the specified depth and cleared of any layers / covering. Sub-layer is then placed on top of the sub-grade layer and laid and compacted to give a better base for subsequent layers.
Edging and Borders:
A driveway’s edges could be delineated by establishing edging or border blocks. This makes it difficult for the blocks to shift or spread over time, as is the case with the previous versions of this work.
Laying the Blocks:
Commence placement of the blocks beginning from the drained corner and move in the direction parallel to the length of the driveway. It is also possible to use the spacers in order to retain the same distances between the blocks, and from time to time to make sure that the surface where they are installed is, in fact, flat.
Compaction and Finishing:
If all blocks have been laid then it is good practice to running over it with a plate compactor to compact the blocks and to create a leveled surface. Last of all, sweep kiln-dried sand in between the blocks to mesh them and therefore create stability.
A block paving driveway is a great idea as it is durable, a good looking material that will serve its purpose on your compound. Such materials and practices concerning installation and maintenance ensure that you get a fine looking driveway that also has great durability that boosts the curb appeal of your home. Whether you are extending an existing drive and wanting to change the existing material to block paving or going from scratch block paving is an option that cannot be beaten for color texture strength and longevity.
