Paving - Durable and hardwearing

Clay and concrete paving bricks are durable, low maintenance, add aesthetic appeal and increase the value of a home.

 

bosun.co.za

When laid properly, clay or concrete paving bricks are a cost effective and low maintenance approach for driveways, patios and paths. Today's paving bricks are available in a variety of colour and styles, making it easier for the DIY enthusiast to consider laying their own small projects, or contract a professional for larger, more detailed projects. We look at the choices available to homeowners looking for a hardwearing surface option.

Choosing the perfect paving for a home is not only a practical alternative, it also adds colour and texture to your exterior. Use paving to define areas or add interest to an otherwise plain garden.

TYPES OF PAVING BRICK

Clay paving bricks have been used in construction as far back as the Egyptian age. Today's clay pavers are manufactured in a variety of colours, styles and textures, and remain the most enduring of landscaping materials for residential homes.

corobrik.co.za

Pros and cons of clay paving bricks:

Colours do not fade over time | Skid-resistant | Hardwearing | Long lasting | Generally more expensive

corobrik.co.za

Concrete paving bricks are manufactured to be a cost-effective alternative for laying hard landscaping and are available in a wide range of shapes, styles, thicknesses and textures. This type of paving has come a long way in the past few years, with the latest development being permeable paving.

Permeable paving allows water to flow through the brick and into the ground underneath, making it ideal for areas where water has a tendency to pool.

Pros and cons of concrete paving bricks:

Bricks must be sealed to prevent fading | Wide range of designs | Affordable cost

bosun.co.za

ABOVE: Grass block pavers can be planted with grass varieties. The design allows water to flow through the blocks while still controlling erosion.

Over the past five years, manufacturing of concrete paving bricks has seen an increase in manufacturing and technical proficiency, enabling the production of modern paving options that are uniquely styled to offer solutions designed for fine homes.

bosun.co.za

MAINTENANCE OF PAVING BRICKS

As with many other materials used for hardscaping, paving bricks require some maintenance now and again.

1. Sweep paving regularly with a soft sweeping brush to clean. Grit can abrade the surface of pavers over time and this can lead to weed and algae growth.

2. Any sign of weeds or algae should be dealt with as soon as possible. Apply a suitable weed killer or algae remover to keep paving bricks in good condition. Application of a brick or paving sealer is recommended in areas of high humidity or shady spots.

3. Where pavers have shifted, fill any gaps with jointing sand to prevent further damage. Sprinkle sand in these areas until filled and repeat at necessary.

4. Clean up spills immediately to prevent permanent staining. New oil stains can be removed with a paste of water and laundry detergent. Place over stains and leave overnight before rinsing away. Repeat if necessary. There is a product called Reinol Pink Stuff that is an intensive cleaner (non-toxic) that is available at Builders that removes oil stains.