Block paving will not sink if you have the proper base underneath. However, it is important to be sure that heavy rain does not cause the base to sink. If you don’t know how to lay the sub-base, you should consider contacting our team for a free quote. It is also important to keep the sand out of the heavy rain.
Grit sand can sink block paving
It is possible for block paving to sink due to insufficient grit sand underneath it. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including inadequate drainage, broken drains, or inadequate depth and strength of the stone sub-base. In these cases, a replacement of the grit sand will be necessary.
The correct grit sand will fill in the gaps in between the bricks. It will also fill in the dip in the paving. Ideally, grit sand should be a minimum of 3mm above the original bed level. This should gradually even out over time.
A pressure washer may be necessary to clean the area, but pressure washers may also cause damage to the laying course beneath the blocks. A pressure washer’s angle may disturb this sand and cause the paving to sink. A safer way to clean the paving is to use a broom and soapy water. This will not only ensure a satisfactory finish, but it will also save you time and money.
If the sub-base is not installed properly, or if the cement used to mix it isn’t properly mixed, the paving will sink. If the paving is already installed, it is possible to re-compact it with kiln dried sand. Alternatively, you can hire a plate compactor for around PS20-30 per day.
It can distort the design of the paving
Distortions can be as troublesome as cracks, but preparing for them can help prevent them from worsening and causing problems later. If they’re not addressed, the distortions can eventually meet up with other breaks in the asphalt paving, leading to the formation of cracks.
To correct the problem, you need to re-sand the paving blocks. If sand adheres to them, it can distort the design of the pavement and cause gaps. You can remedy the problem by adding more coarse sand or fines to fill the gaps.
