Using Blocks for Your Pavement: A Guide

One of the most popular options for pool contractors and hardscape contractors when it comes to pavement surfacing is block paving. Block paving offers a variety of materials, including concreteConcrete is a composite material made from a mixture of cement, sand, gravel, and water. It is one o..., clayClay is a natural, fine-grained soil material that becomes pliable when wet and hardens when dried o..., and recycled plastic, making it suitable for exterior pavement applications. It provides a wide range of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, allowing for personalized landscape designs. For the past three decades, landscape contractors have favored block paving, and in this article, we will provide a brief guide on how you can use adjacent paving blocks in your landscape design and the benefits that each option offers.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about paving blocks and how personalized and professional landscape design in Orange County can enhance your outdoor living area.

Why Choose Block Paving?

Block paving is a commonly used procedure in the construction industry for constructing outdoor pavements using individual blocks made of materials like clay, concrete, and natural stones. It provides a flexible structure that can absorb both living and dead loads from stationary and moving people and vehicles. Block pavers are relatively easy to install and maintain since replacement is limited to only a few damaged blocks. Additionally, they offer timeless appeal and aesthetic value.

Types of Paver Blocks

Paver blocks can be categorized into three types:

1. Concrete Paving Block: These blocks come in various sizes and are mass-produced in large quantities. They have a smooth surface on one side and a rough surface on the other. Concrete paving blocks are ideal for heavy-duty applications, as they can withstand large weights and resist shearing and braking effects. Moreover, their high durability ensures strength throughout harsh climatic conditions.
2. Clay Paving Blocks: Clay paving blocks, also known as bricks or cobblesCobbles, also known as cobblestones, are naturally rounded stones, typically larger than pebbles but..., offer versatility in shape. While rectangular brick pavingBrick paving is the process of laying bricks in a specific pattern to create a durable, aestheticall... is the most common shape for concrete blocks, unique shapes can be created to meet specific landscape needs. Unlike concrete blocks, clay paving blocks can be used on either side interchangeably. These blocks are available in natural colors, eliminating the risk of color fading.
3. Natural Stone Block Paving: The popularity of natural stone block paving is increasing as technology advancements improve quarrying and finishing processes. This has made natural stone pavers accessible to homeowners and business owners alike. These pavers come in various sizes, both standard and custom, with the most common dimension being 200mm x 100mm x 50mm with a 1mm variance.

Shapes and Classification of Paver Blocks

Paver blocks can be classified into four types based on their typical shapes:

1. Type A: Paver blocks with straight vertical faces that do not interlock in any configuration when laid down.
2. Type B: Paver blocks with alternating plain and curved/corrugated vertical faces that lock into each other along with the curved/corrugated faces when laid in any arrangement.
3. Type C: Paver blocks with all curved or corrugated faces that lock into each other and all vertical faces when laid out in any design.
4. Type D: Paver blocks in 'L' and 'X' shapes with all faces bent or corrugated that lock into each other and all vertical faces when laid down in any manner.

Advantages of Using Blocks for Pavement

Interlocking concrete blockConcrete blocks, also known as cinder blocks or CMUs (concrete masonry units), are precast concrete ... pavements offer numerous advantages over traditional concrete or asphalt pavements. They include:

1. Low Maintenance: Interlocking concrete blocks require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with soap and water keeps the pavement looking fresh without the need for polishing or repainting.
2. High Durability: Interlocking concrete block paving is exceptionally durable, lasting up to 20 years. Proper interlocking prevents cracking, making it suitable for heavy pedestrian activity and traffic.
3. Highly Versatile: Interlocking concrete blocks come in various shapes, colors, and patterns, making them suitable for different applications such as patiosPatios are outdoor spaces adjacent to a home, typically used for dining, entertaining, or relaxation..., drivewaysA residential driveway is a private road that provides access to a home or garage. Driveways are typ..., sidewalks, pool decksA residential pool deck is the area surrounding a swimming pool, offering space for lounging, entert..., and parking lotsCommercial parking lots are paved areas for vehicle parking in settings such as shopping centers, of....
4. Environmentally-Friendly: Interlocking concrete blocks allows for the reuse of stormwater, promoting better drainage and sustainable water management systems.
5. Safety: Interlocking concrete block pavements provide a safe surface for walking and driving. They are slip-resistant and skid-resistant, ensuring safety even when wet.
6. Quick Installation: Installing interlocking concrete blocks is straightforward and doesn't require heavy machinery. The placement process can be completed in a few days without the need for mortarMortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water, used as a bonding agent in masonry construction. It ....
7. Easy Repair: Interlocking concrete block pavements can be easily repaired by removing and replacing damaged blocks, without the need for specialized labor or heavy machinery.

Interlocking concrete block pavements offer a range of benefits, including low maintenance, high durability, versatility, environmental friendliness, safety, quick installation, and easy repair. These advantages make them a popular choice for driveways, outdoor pathways, and landscape designs. If you're looking for professional landscape contractors you can trust, contact West Hills Masonry for high-quality landscaping services and precise solutions. Their experienced team can help you create a beautiful outdoor space. Request a free quote for your next home improvement project today.