Paving - what you need to know

Paving blocks are available in a wide selection of shapes, sizes and colors making it possible to turn a paved surface into an artistic expression which has made it a long-time favourite with landscape artists and garden designers.

Shape, size and color are considered when planning the top surface and beauty, while thickness and strength of the paving blocks are practical considerations depending on the weight and volume of traffic that the paved area would have to accommodate.

Public side walks and private drive-ways are the best known use of paving blocks, but paving has also become an attractive alternative for road construction in residential developments.  The flexible nature of the paved surface also makes it ideal for intersections and road crossings.

It is important to note that the durability of any paved area is determined not so much by the beauty of the bricks, but rather by the preparation of the underlying supporting layers.  Apart from the visible surface layer of bricks and the bedding layer of sand that the bricks are laid on, a well-compacted sub-base layer of suitable material ensures that your paved areas remain intact for many years.

The most common damage to paved areas is caused by grass or weeds finding a root-hold in the sand between the paving blocks.  Expensive maintenance or even the need to partially re-construct paving can be prevented by ensuring that all organic materials and roots are removed before placing the sub-surface layers.  On some sites it may be necessary to use weed killers during construction.

Any weeds or grass appearing between blocks should be removed or sprayed with weed-killers immediately to prevent strong root growth that will eventually push the blocks out of position or lift them above the desired level.

An in-house training program for pavers and masons is overseen by competent permanent team-leaders with the experience and leadership qualities to pack any paving surface, regardless of the shape of brick used.

Sub-surface layers is a primary product for Marracon, so you can rest assured that your paving will not sag or sink creating puddles in the drive-way.

As part of the re-construction of Gleniqua Drive in Glentana, every private drive-way had to be raised or lowered to the level of the new road surface and you will note that every drive-way was originally constructed with a different type of paver, brick or block!