For building paths, patios, and parking areas, the pavers are ornamental alternatives for concrete. In general, pavers need to be built more than just concrete, but pavers are opening the door to design in a concrete plate with textures and designs difficult to suit. Pavings are normally installed on a sand bed. However, there may be certain conditions warranting the use of cement to hold pavers.
A bed of sand typically is used under pavers because it can be scraped easily to create a smooth surface so the finished paver construction looks straight and even. The same surface can be accomplished by setting pavers on wet cement, but it is a more time-consuming process than using a sand bed because of the effort involved in mixing the cement. The entirely rigid cement-built surface can also distract from the aesthetic of the pavers – a natural variable, permeable surface that reminds the atmosphere of old cobbled roads.
Why Use Cement In Between Pavers?
The resilience of pavers can become a liability if the roots of trees grow under them and deform the paved surface. This happens much more with pavers than with a concrete plate, but with cement, buckling is a problem in place, it can be the best of all worlds and set pavers. Another issue is that pavers move on the outer edge to undermine the structural integrity of the paved surface. Different ways of curving are possible to tackle migration patterns, including the development of a concrete lip forming a rigid edge to hold pavers. However, if pavers are initially set in cement, they will be immobilized and not moved out over time.
Installation Using Concrete Base for Pavers
For the filling of the concrete base for pavers, the shape boards are required so that the finished product has a smooth, continuous surface and a 1% drainage path is assured. The downside to the use of a concrete mark under the paving is that the mark has to be produced section by section, with the size of each segment equal to the number of pavers put before the concrete dries. In order to build a level foundation, when crushed rock is put under the mortar, shape boards are unnecessary. As the pavers are placed, Mortar spreads bit by bit. Mortar thus makes the construction of pavers more favorable than concrete mixes. Also, dry mortar can be swept into the cracks between pavers; ambient moisture will cause the dry mortar to stiffen over time. Using dry mortar that way saves a tremendous amount of time compared to mortaring individual joints between pavers, but the dry mortar has to be applied in dry conditions to prevent it from staining the pavers’ surface.
Top 10 Questions About Interlocking Concrete Pavers (and Our Answers)
- What Is Cheaper Concrete Or Pavers?
- What Is The Least Expensive Patio Material?
- Can You Lay Pavers On Just Sand?
- How Do You Keep Pavers From Moving?
- What Is The Best Material To Put In Between Pavers?
- How Thick Should Sand Be Under Pavers?
- Can You Put Concrete Between the Pavers?
- What To Put Between Pavers To Stop Weeds?
- Are Pavers Worth The Money?
Are You Considering Interlocking Concrete Pavers For Your Pool, Patio, or Driveway?
At DPG Design and Build, we’ve been providing our customers with Interlocking Concrete Pavers for Pools, Patios, and Driveways for over 30 years. DPG Design and Build, with locations in San Rafael, Walnut Creek, Oakley, and San Ramon, California is the best curb-appeal and outdoor living space designer and installers in the San Francisco Bay Area. Appearing on HGTV’s Curb Appeal and featured on Discovery Channel’s program Renovation Nation, our team of skilled designers and landscape engineers provide top-quality service and professionalism our customers love. DPG Design and Build offers 2-D and 3-D conceptual home and landscape design plans that allow you to visualize your dream space and make that dream concept a reality. Want to transform your front yard, backyard, or driveway with pavers? Contact DPG Design and Build to schedule your free consultation today!