Bad Paving Installation
Most paving installation problems have a snowball effect, where one problem leads to another, causing yet another in turn. This ultimately results in the complete, irreparable failure of a paved area.
Instead of falling victim to a poor installation, we highly recommend looking at these common paving installation problems. Let us help you to avoid them as far as possible.
Earthworks
Paving problems are normally caused by inferior earthworks. When a paving site’s sub-base has failed due to incorrect earthworks, the result will be disastrous and irreparable.
Compaction
Inadequate compaction of the sub-base will cause pavers to sag, which could result in water ponding (as discussed under “Drainage”).
Drainage
Incorrect drainage will cause ponding and infiltration of the sub-base, which may cause it to fail.
Attention to Detail
SmartStone is a beautiful product, but the aesthetic appeal of the overall installation will be lacking if an installer does not pay attention to details.
Cement Staining
Cement grouting can cause permanent stains on pavers if it is not correctly cleaned off. However, our sister company, Cretesol, has just the product for this. Guard Remover® Eco Efflorescence & Cement easily and effectively cleans cement off of pavers.
Careful Handling
Careless and indiscriminate handling of SmartStone’s cobbles and flagstones will cause chipping and breaking. SmartStone pavers are very different from bricks and cannot be handled in the same conventional manner. Cretesol supplies tailor-made tools for paving installers to enable them to do their jobs more effectively.
Grouting Failures
Cement grouting failures on flagstone installations are extremely common. There are alternative methods available. Resin bound mortars come in a broad range of products with differing applications, but in essence it is a fine aggregate like the sand used in sand grouting, mixed and coated with a strong resin before application. Resin bound mortars are incredibly strong and long lasting. Romex is by far the leading producer of these types of mortars and is used with success all over the world. Romex is a quality grouting sand and resin, mixed in the correct proportions, made to be poured directly onto the surface of the paving. Romex paving grouting is durable, flexible and suitable for the repair of failed grouting.
Straight Lines
Crooked lines between pavers are common when installers do not pay attention to details. Tools such as the Paving Alignment Tool, from Cretesol, can be used to align paving blocks before they are permanently set and compacted. Cretesol supplies various paving tools, to make the installation of paving safer, easier and more accurate.
Correct Sealing
A sealant should not be applied to pavers for at least six months after their installation, as it will trap efflorescence under their surface, ruining their beauty.
To avoid or fix common paving installation problems, contact our sister company, Cretesol. Their products include specialist paving tools, sealants, protectors, grout, grout stabilisers, and cement & efflorescence removers.