Identifying paving damage is critical
The durability of pavers will vary depending on the material and how well-made they are. However, like all paving surfaces, pavers can develop problems, but how often and how severe will depend on the quality of the installation and the regularity of ongoing maintenance. Here are a few of the most common types of pavement damage and advice on the best way to repair them from About Paving, the Sydney paving experts.
Potholes
Pavers that sink in localized areas are unsightly, but they can also indicate a much larger problem with the installation. In most cases, potholes are caused by a drainage problem that wasn’t addressed when they were installed.
Proper preparation of the base is critical to preventing potholes, as is site drainage, compaction, and soil type. Sites that aren’t excavated deep enough will also be more prone to potholing.
When the reason for the potholing has been determined, the best remedy is to lift up the pavers, properly prepare the site, and relay the pavers.
Fatigue cracks
Fatigue cracking appears as a series of interconnected cracks and is caused by a weak, subgrade, overloading, or a combination of these factors. Fixing the issue will require digging out the affected area, replacing the subgrade, and improving the drainage.
Block cracks
Block cracking appears as multiple deep cracks spread over an area. It may be a localised problem or could spread over several square feet. When it does happen, it will only get worse as moisture seeps into the cracks and into the sub-base.
Using the wrong type of asphalt binding can cause premature block cracking, but it can also result from a faulty manufacturing process.
In less severe cases, thecracks can be sealed against further degradation, but you may need to resurface an area experiencing advanced block cracking.
Rutting
Rutting is the deep depression made from the wheel paths of heavy vehicles across the pavement. The issue accumulates gradually when small, but permanent indentations are made every time a vehicle passes over the area.
The issue occurs because of a soft, or insufficiently thick subbase or lack of compaction. The best way to prevent rutting is to ensure the site is prepared properly. A good drainage system and regular seal coating will also help to avoid costly rut damage.
Upheaval
Pavement upheaval is caused when elements below the paving surface expand because of excessive moisture absorption or frost and ice putting upwards pressure on the surface.
The problems are in the subgrade, so fixing pavement upheaval requires digging out the affected pavement and base and replacing it with a full patch.
Need help paving your Sydney property?
Phil and the team at About Paving can help guide you and also source the best pavers for your project. We offer a no-obligation call. With our network of Sydney paving suppliers, we aim to access the best prices possible.
Find out more about our Sydney paving services right here.
More Sydney paving tips and information
Here are other informative articles that you can read to know about Paving in Sydney:
Things to Consider When Paving a Large Driveway
Sydney Paving Tips – 6 Benefits of Driveway Pavers
Sydney Paving Tips – Best Type of Pool Pavers
Other useful links
- By: APadmin
- Tags: Paving, Paving Sydney, Sydney Paving
- Category: Paving
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