Questions:

 

Answers:

Q. How do I lay my pavers?

A. To ensure the best quality results for your paved area, we recommend you use a qualified professional to lay your pavers. However if you would prefer to take on the DIY approach, we would be happy to guide you in the right direction for the best finish possible. The following information is for paving projects which are not using a mortar finish. It basically consists of a layer of basecourse, a layer of bedding sand, the pavers and then the jointing sand to fill the gaps. You need to plan your paving project with consideration for the following materials:

The Pavers:
Measure the area you propose to pave: length(m) x width(m) = area (m2)
Calculate the number of paving units required to fit this area: area (m2) x number of pavers per m2 (see price list) = total number of pavers required
You may want to take into consideration that our pavers are 40mm thick and have an edge which slightly tapers towards the top. You may also want to calculate for a jointing gap of approx 10mm if desired.
The Base:
A solid, level surface to lay the pavers on is essential for a lasting quality finish. You will need to allow for a compacted base course depth of approx 100mm: area (m2) x depth of base course (appx 0.1m or 100mm) = volume of base course required (m3).
The Bedding Sand:
The pavers will require a layer of bedding sand to sit on (plastering sand or crusher dust) at a compacted depth of approx 30mm: area (m2) x depth of sand (appx 0.035m or 35mm) = volume of sand required (m3) (this volume allows for compaction under pavers)
The Jointing Sand:
Jointing Sand is used to fill the gaps between the paving units once laid. A 30kg bag of Pave Fill Joining Sand (containing silicon particles which harden when wet) will cover approx 10m2, depending on the size of the mortar gaps.
For a full version see our Practical Laying Guide page on this website or come in and see us.


Q. Should I seal my paving?
A. It is totally up to you and the look you desire as to whether or not you want to seal your pavers. Our concrete pavers will behave just like any other concrete product left outside to weather. Some like to see it as the beautiful nature of concrete! If you would prefer a more uniform look where your paver colour does not fade too much and staining might be an issue, sealing might be a good option for you. Sealing your concrete paver works much in the same way as varnishing wood. Sealing will prevent staining and fungal growth, enhance the concrete colour giving it a ‘wet look’, and will tend to slow the weathering process by preserving the colour, reducing water absorption and therefore the effects of efflorescence. (Note: Efflorescence is the phenomenon of natural salts migrating to the surface of the concrete as water moves in and out of the product leaving a white-ish powder like discolouration on the surface of your pavers. Often, the better the quality and strength of concrete, the more efflorescence appears due to the high cement content. Sealing your paving helps to slow down the process by reducing the water absorption. However, make sure you get a sealer which accounts for efflorescence.

(Refer Article from 'Concrete' Journal of the Cement and Concrete Association of New Zealand Volume.43 Issue No.1 or check out www.pavingexpert.com )