Paver Blocks – Types, Shapes, Uses, and Benefits

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Paver block or Paving block is one of the most popular flexible surface treatment options for exterior pavement applications. These blocks are aesthetically pleasing, comfortable to walk on, extremely durable, and easy to maintain.

Types of Paver Blocks

There are two types of paver blocks:

1. Concrete Paving Block

Concrete blocks are mass manufactured to standard sizes. Hence, they can be easily interchanged. A typical concrete block has two surfaces - one is smooth, and the other is a rough surface. The concrete paving blocks are most suitable for heavy-duty applications, able to support substantial loads and resist shearing and braking forces. The concrete blocks come in various colors. The colors typically come from metallic oxides. However, there is a possibility of these colors to fade away. Hence one needs to be very careful while choosing the color of the block. Concrete paving blocks are the most preferred choice for laying of pavements, driveways, etc.

2. Clay Paving Blocks

Clay paving blocks are also called bricks or cobbles. These blocks are generally available as typical, rectangular brick-shaped. Although custom shapes can be made for specific projects. Unlike the concrete paving blocks, either side of clay paving blocks can be used. So both sides are interchangeable. Clay blocks are available in natural color only; hence the possibility of color fading is not there in these blocks. These blocks are mostly used for walls or pillars.

Shapes and Classification of Paver Blocks

There are four generic shapes of paver blocks corresponding to the four types of blocks:

1. Type A: Paver blocks with plain vertical faces, which do not interlock into each other when paved in any pattern,
2. Type B: Paver blocks with alternating plain and curved/corrugated vertical faces, which lock into each other along the curve/corrugated faces, when paved in any pattern,
3. Type C: Paver blocks having all faces curved or corrugated, which lock into each other along with all the vertical faces when paved in any pattern and
4. Type D: 'L' and 'X' shaped paver blocks that have all faces curved or corrugated and which lock into each other along with all the vertical faces when paved in any pattern.

Advantages of Paver Blocks

1. Paver blocks do not need special maintenance as compared to concrete or asphalt surfaces. A simple water washing can help keep the blocks clean and bright.
2. Paver blocks are very durable, and if they are adequately interlocked, they can easily last for about 20 years. Paver blocks can withstand hefty vehicular load as well.
3. Paver blocks are available in different shapes and colors, making it very versatile. These blocks can be used at residential as well as commercial premises.
4. Paver blocks are slip-resistant and skid resistant.
5. Paver blocks can be used in any weather conditions.
6. These paver blocks are very easy to install and do not need any special equipment for its installation.
7. The most important advantage of paver blocks is that they can be easily replaced. If one of the blocks gets damaged, it can be easily removed and replaced with another one.

With all these advantages, paver blocks are the most sort after solution for exterior pavement or driveways. These paver blocks not only make the exterior pathways look clean and neat but are also safe for walking on. Paver blocks are a definite solution for a low maintenance pathway.

References:

1. Technofluid.co.in
2. Infra Construction and Equipment Magazine - Tech Article 4993 by Dr. S. D. Sharma.
3. MPA - Concrete Center.

Image Credit: Indiamart Also Read:

1. What is Concrete Block Spacer? Their Uses and Construction
2. What are Eco-Friendly Building Materials used in Construction?