Tech Brief 18
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Concrete Pavers
Why concrete pavers?
Homebuyers want paving that complements their residences and lifestyles. Builders can answer this demand with concrete pavers…and increase sales at the same time.
Appearance: The wide array of colors, shapes and sizes make concrete pavers a popular option that enhances neighborhood and home character. Patterns complement the architectural style of any home because of the wide variety of available styles, colors and textures.
Low Initial Cost: Concrete pavers beautify homes with the high-end look of natural stone on walks and driveways at surprisingly modest prices. They are almost maintenance free.
Low Cost Repair: Concrete pavers set on bedding sand and sand joints inter-lock to provide a firm surface without the use of mortar. Should base or under-ground utility repairs be needed, the same pavers are removed and reinstated with no unsightly patches. Unlike other pavement surfaces, the original appear-ance of the paved surface is easily restored.
Snow Removal: Pavers’ smooth surface allows for easy snow removal. Darker colored pavers help melt snow faster. Snow-melt systems can be easily installed under the pavers to eliminate snow and ice removal.
Durability: Pavers resist deterioration from freeze-thaw cycles and deicing salts better than other surfaces. Pavers are stronger than other common pavement surfaces.
Don’t Crack: Unlike monolithic surfaces, the sand-filled joints between each interlocking paver allow a small amount of movement without shrinkage cracking.
Define and Enlarge Space: Raised patios provide a great entertainment area and can create useful space on sloped backyards with segmental concrete retaining walls.
Raised patios can also incorporate an in-ground hot tub, and many patio designs are enhanced with a barbecue or a fire pit and lighting.
Acheieve LEED Credits with Concrete Pavers
Rising energy and material costs have accelerated energy and natural resource conservation in home design and construction. Concrete pavers can help builders address sustainable development and earn Leadership and Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) credits for their homes. Earn LEED® credits through:
Surface Water Management
Install permeable interlocking pavers for walkways, patios, sidewalks, playgrounds, recreation courts, aprons, and driveways that reduce runoff and pollutants.
Local Resource Use and Recycled Content
Most pavers are produced within 500 miles of the home and can include recycled materials. These features support indigenous resource use and reduce environmental impacts from transportation and natural resource extraction.
Getting a Quality Installation
To learn more about concrete pavers, visit the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute at www.icpi.org. ICPI has many resources to assist builders, design professionals, contractors and homeowners with their concrete paver projects.
To find an ICPI Certified Concrete Paver Installer or learn more about ICPI Certified Concrete Paver Installer Program, visit http://www.icpi.org/contractors/find_installer.cfm.
For More Information
The following resources are available from the Portland Cement Association. To order, call PCA Publications at (800) 868.6733, or click on the links provided.
Concrete Homes Helpline: (888) 333-4840
Websites:
Portland Cement Association
Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute
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