Paving is a process of covering surfaces with concrete or other materials for both functional and aesthetic purposes. This is typically done in homes, commercial buildings, roads and driveways. There are many different types of paving materials available, with each offering its own unique benefits. For example, asphalt is a popular choice for roadways because it is resilient and can withstand heavy vehicle traffic. Concrete pavers are great for driveways because they are low-maintenance and can withstand foot and vehicular traffic.
Pavement is generally constructed from a base layer that is then covered with a top layer of material such as stone, brick or concrete. The material is then compacted using machines or manually. This process enhances the strength of the pavement as well as eliminating any air voids that could lead to cracking in the future. Once the surface is fully compacted, it’s then leveled and smoothed with various tools such as floats or screeds. This step creates a flat, even and attractive surface that is ideal for pedestrian or vehicular use.
Besides being durable, paved surfaces are also easy to repair. This is because the underlying material can be easily replaced without having to dig up the entire area. This feature makes paving an affordable option for homeowners and businesses alike.
Another reason why paving is so common is that it protects surfaces from the elements. Rain, wind and other weather conditions can wash away sand-based soils leaving surfaces damaged and costly to repair. By paving surfaces, these damages are prevented and your hard-earned money is saved in the long run.
A good quality paving material will last for a very long time, especially when it is properly maintained and regularly repaired. It is important to understand the difference between a paver and a slab when considering which type of paving is best for your project. For instance, slabs should not be used for vehicular traffic as they cannot distribute the weight and may crack. Interlocking concrete pavers, on the other hand, are a better choice for vehicular and pedestrian applications as they can handle the stress.
Before deciding on the type of paving you want to install, it’s a good idea to figure out how many paving slabs you need for your space. This can be done by measuring the length and width of your space, then multiplying these dimensions to get the total area in square feet. This can then be divided by the area of a single paving slab to find out how many pavers you’ll need.
The most commonly used paving material for roadways is asphalt, which is comprised of a mixture of aggregates (such as crushed rock and sand), binder and fillers. The binder, which is often made of asphalt cement, acts as a glue to bind the aggregates together. The fillers, which can be sand or fine aggregate, help to fill in any voids in the asphalt mixture and ensure that the finished product is smooth and uniform. Asphalt is also a sustainable choice because it can be recycled and reused in new projects. This cyclical approach to road construction is in keeping with modern environmental goals.