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What is Echuca Paving FAQ

Echuca Paving FAQ is a series of questions and answers about paving

What are the benefits of paving? 

The most essential benefits of paving are adding to the value and aesthetics of your property. Paving massively adds to the value of your home. Plus pavers are available in numerous colours, and the patterns are simply subject to your imagination. Put simply. They make your place look beautiful. And all of this comes at a high price. 

What are pavers? 

Pavers are blocks or slabs that are joined together in a particular pattern to create driveways, decks, patios, etc. They come in a variety of colours and shapes. Also, there is a myriad of options when it comes to the material of pavers like brick, bluestone pavers, concrete, flagstone, travertine, and cobblestone, etc. 

What are brick pavers, and what are their benefits? 

These are a century-old practice. Brick pavers are clay that is moulded and baked in a kiln at high temperatures. Its many benefits are, firstly, it is available in many surface textures, shapes, and colours. Which means it can be laid in various designs. And secondly, it is made from eco-friendly materials which can be decomposed at a later stage. 

What are the cons of using brick pavers?

Brick pavers have somewhat lesser strength than another type of pavers. Thus, they tend to crack or chip over some time. Also, they are not much recommended for driveways due to lesser strength. 

What are concrete pavers and why we should choose them? 

Concrete pavers are moulded concrete chunks. Since it is just moulded concrete, they come in many shapes, sizes, and textures. Also, since the color is artificial, thus, it comes in a variety of colours. They have excellent strength at least more than poured-in-concrete and are ideal for driveways and roadways. Also, it is low cost and very easy to install. 

What are some cons of concrete pavers? 

Because it uses artificial colours. Thus they fade with time. They are high-maintenance as they need sealers to extend life. Also, their life is shorter than other pavers because it uses low-cost raw materials. 

What are Bluestone pavers, and what makes them so great?

Bluestone is a type of sandstone. As it is a stone, it has excellent strength and can be used for driveways. But what makes it great are its looks. It is royal blue and can be used in any form, gravel, slabs, or pavers. And the fact that it can be merged with other paving material makes it all the more perfect. 

What are some drawbacks of Bluestone? 

The colour of these beautiful pavers starts as royal blue but becomes a light grey after some years due to exposure to sunlight. Another drawback they have is that they are costly. Also, beware of fake Bluestone that is also available in the market. 

What are Flagstone pavers and why are they the best? 

Flagstone is a sedimentary rock that looks incredibly beautiful. It mainly comes in hues of grey and red. These pavers are of random shape and can be paved together to fit like a puzzle. Ou can make exactly any pattern you can imagine. But these stone-built pavers are typically small. Thus, they are not a good option for a driveway but make for a perfect patio. Lastly, they have a unique finish making it the best option for your patios. 

Are there any cons of flagstone pavers? 

Since they are mined and transported, thus, they are double or triple the cost of regular pavers. Also, since it is a naturally occurring stone, it has its shapes, and sometimes you cannot achieve the exact shape/pattern that you want. 

What are Travertine pavers and why are they so popular? 

Travertine pavers are also sedimentary rock pavers. But the best part is there look. They look beautiful everywhere, decks, patios, indoors, countertops, yes. Also, they are cheaper than marble and come in various colours and tones. Another great feature is that they do not heat up. So they make perfect pool deck pavers. Also, they do not go through discolouration. 

Are there any cons of Travertine pavers? 

Yes, there are certain drawbacks, but not many. Travertine pavers are susceptible to acids. Thus, cleaning them with cleaning agents can make unwanted stains on them. Also, travertine is a heavy stone. So, the pavers are also very heavy. 

What are cobblestone pavers and why are they so good?

Cobblestone pavers are generally granite pavers, but sometimes they can be Basalt, Sandstone, or Limestone also. Cobblestone pavers are not a new trend. There have been around for centuries now. They are highly durable and can last for decades. Also, they need very little maintenance, like washing once or twice a year. They look great while being durable. Thus they are simply the best. 

What are the drawbacks of cobblestone pavers? 

Yes, nothing is perfect. Cobblestone pavers come at double or triple the price and also installing them takes more labour and time although much machinery or skill is not necessary. 

Which is the best type of paver for my pool deck? 

We recommend Travertine pavers. Travertine pavers do not heat up and thus make an ideal choice for your pool deck. Also, their tones and colours go very well with blue tones of the pool. So, aesthetically and technically, they are the right choice. Also, they are economical and eco-friendly. 

Which is the best type of paver for my patio? 

Any type of paver would go. But, the patio is a place where you would spend a lot of quality time. Thus, if you are looking for economical options, you can go for brick or concrete, but if you are looking for high-end options, they go for flagstone paving. It is the best patio paver. 

Which is the best type of paver for my driveway? 

Any stone or concrete paver would go beautifully for your driveway. Brick and flagstone are not that great because they tend to chip away easily and may not be able to take the weight of your car. 

What is ABC? 

ABC is an Aggregate Base Course. Aggregate Base Course is the base layer that is applied and compacted. On this base layer sand is placed and on them pavers. 

Why do I need to apply to ABC? 

ABC is an essential part of laying pavers. Most of the pavings fail just because of poorly done ABC. Sometimes it is thinner than required or not used at all. This usually becomes the cause of paving failure. On the other hand, a good ABC ensures a longer life for the paving. 

Is paver sealing necessary? 

Paver sealers are less of a necessity and more of a personal choice. Some of the benefits of paver sealing are easy to stain removal, less weed germination between the joints, and enhanced colours. As you can see, none of these is requirements. But, sealers need reapplying after every 3-5 years and more frequently in the regions with rougher usage.  

Can I pave my pool deck or patio? 

Paving is a bit thick, and thus, if you have space enough for it, you can install some beautiful pavers on your pool deck or patio. Pavers come in various thicknesses. So, chose one that fits your space.

Please get in contact with one of our experts if you need some help.

Is paving over my already existing concrete walkway possible? 

Yes, you can, but there are specific points to keep in mind. Firstly, the walkway must be well kept, smooth, and in good condition. Secondly, your walkway would raise by 7 to 8 cm due to the bricks and paving material. This becomes a critical issue as doors need to open and paving might obstruct it.  

Can the already existing paving be extended? 

The best advantage of paving is that it is very flexible. Thus, yes, you can replace your existing paving. All there is to be done is to remove the existing edge restraint and a few of the outer row bricks. Now prepare the setting bed and base for the new bricks and set the new pavers. To gel up the new pavers with the old ones, simply replace a few of the old with the new pavers. 

In Echuca, do pool deck and patio pavers get heated? Are they the right choice? 

A lot depends on the colours you are choosing. Dark shades tend to heat up. But the light colours are very comfortable and stay calm. You will not face any problem in hot months if your patio and pool deck has light-coloured pavers. They are fresh, good looking, and a perfect choice. 

Can paving be removed if there is an issue? 

Yes, again paving is flexible. It can be removed, but the process is not that easy. You will need professional help if you decide to have them removed.

Can I replace a damaged or chipped paver on my own? 

Yes, you can very easily remove a damaged or chipped paver. Simply pull it out with two flathead screwdrivers. 

We recommend that you keep a few pavers aside when getting them installed. So that you can replace the damaged ones with them, although pavers are reliable and do not get damaged easily, still, if the need arises, you can easily replace pavers. 

Can I drive on my paving? Is it strong enough? 

Yes, you can drive on them. Pavers can handle pressures of approximately 55,000 kilopascals. And this is more than thrice of that of concrete. So, it is entirely safe to drive on them. Pavers are a beautiful combination of looks and sturdiness. 

How to stop weeds from growing between the pavers? 

Weeds do not germinate from under the pavers. They grow due to airborne seeds falling on them. But these can be removed easily by either uprooting or spraying a biodegradable herbicide. Another way of preventing weed growth is paver sealing. Sealing can help reduce the chances of weed growth between joints. 

Will my paver lose colour with time? 

No, for a long time, they don’t. But they need care. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep its colour vivid. Also, applying sealer every 3-5 years will save your pavers from de-colouration. Some of the reasons why pavers lose colour are weathering dirt, and even normal water. The type of paver you are using also is another factor in the equation. 

Are pavers slippery? 

No, pavers are not slippery. They have the right amount of friction which is required for the patio, deck, or even pool-side activities. But, sealed pavers do tend to get a bit slippery when wet. 

What is efflorescence? 

You must have noticed, that often after some weeks or months, a white layer appears on your pavers. This is efflorescence. Please do not mistake it for fading colour. Another quick tip to differentiate whether it is efflorescence or colour fading is, that, efflorescence goes away when the paver is wet. 

When will efflorescence stop? 

Yes, it will stop automatically with time. But, yes it will take around 18 to 24 months before it goes away. Sometimes it takes longer and sometimes earlier. But, the good news is that in areas of good rainfall and sunlight, it goes away quicker than dry climates. 

How will efflorescence disappear? 

Efflorescence will disappear automatically with time. It occurs naturally, and it will go away naturally. Rainwater will slowly wash it away. It is a natural reaction. It will stop when all the haze causing substance is exhausted. 

How to remove efflorescence instantly? 

Yes, efflorescence can be removed instantly with the use of cleaners only that you will need to clean it repeatedly as haze appears again and again although it will stop after some time. Also, caution must be taken while using these cleaners as these are made of acids and detergents and can lead to discolouration of pavers. Thus, first, try them in a hidden corner. 

What ingredients are required for paving?

Firstly, you need a stone base, then sand for the setting bed, after that some pavers, sand for the joints, and lastly, an edge restraint that will contain the pavers within their perimeter. 

Which sand should I use for paving? 

Concrete sand is used form, making the setting bed for paving. Also, there is no need to compact the sand. You only need to spread it evenly. Also, remember not to use stone dust or screening because it will cause lousy drainage. 

What are Geotextile and its benefits?

Geotextile is a sheet of woven plastic threads that allow water to flow through it but stops minute sand particles. What happens is that in a prolonged process, the sand below the stone base slowly seeps into it. And a geotextile stops this action. Geotextile thus elongates the life of paving by many years. This seeping action depends on the type of soil too. 

What is the life of paving? 

A good quality paving will last many years. In most cases, there are no major repair requirements until 20 to 30 years. It easily outlasts any patterned concrete, stamped concrete, or poured-in-place concrete. 

How long will it take to install paving? 

Paving does not take much time. An average-size patio can pave within a day or two. So, you can have a fair idea of the time it would require to complete the job you have in mind for us. 

Which one is better, stamped/patterned concrete or pavers? 

Pavers. Stamped/patterned concrete is large portions of poured-in-place concrete. Thus, it has similar drawbacks as that of concrete, i.e. it has lower strength than pavers. Another negative point is that stamped/patterned concrete requires an expansion joint after approximately every 3 meters. On the other hand, pavers are more beautiful and let the earth breathe. And the best part? Both are roughly the same price. 

How do I care for my paving? 

Caring for pavers is easy. Simply clean them with a broom regularly. Also, do remember to broom them if it is going to rain soon because debris and leaves leave stains on the pavers, which take much more labour. Also periodically, follow brooming with washing with a garden hose. If there are still some stains, then make a solution of water and soap and rub the stains with a cloth. 

Applying sealers can help in easy stain removal. Also, you can easily replace pavers once they are badly stained. 

Why should I choose Echuca Paving? 

Echuca Paving is an experienced and responsible service provider of the Echuca Paving Industry. Our many happy customers provide testimony to our attention to detail, quality service, responsive customer support, excellent finish, and completely trustworthy service. Also, we assure you that there will be no nasty surprises or hidden charges on project completion.