Essential design elements
When designing hardscaping installations consider the following elements when preparing a client quotation:
- The main entrance of the residence will be the primary focal point and the treatment of this area often sets the tone for the entire landscaping design. In some cases, the property owner may indicate otherwise for reasons of privacy or security.
- When developing a design approach, contractors should consider the vantage point. As a rule of thumb, paving installations, when properly designed, should ‘welcome the way’ for guests.
- Effective hardscaping works most effectively when co‑ordinated with the scale of the property. This can mean emphasizing certain attributes or spaces that make the property standout from its neighbours.
- Wherever practical, landscaping should echo or reinforce the architectural style of the property.
- Ensure dominant colours displayed in the façade and plants surrounding the home are co-ordinated effectively with the hardscaping. Also keep in mind, minor differences in texture can be magnified in landscaping.
- There are occasions when rapid changes in grade or water features, such as pools and ponds, should be considered during the design stage.
Pavers improve safety
Special surface finishes such as shot blasting, tumbling, and bush hammering can be produced to provide an upscale architectural appearance. They are manufactured from Portland cement and fine and coarse aggregates. Pigments are added as a colouring agent along with chemicals to repel moisture, improve strength, and increase durability.
The ingredients are mixed with a small amount of water and moulded under vibration and extreme pressure to create a consistent and durable segmental block unit. Most blocks have a chamfer (shallow angled cut) around the top edge to improve pedestrian comfort and safety. The chamfer also improves the appearance of the blocks, minimizes damage during installation, and facilitates drainage. The units commonly incorporate protruding placement ribs on their sides to maintain a uniform 2-mm (0.08-in.) space around the installed units. Special surface finishes are created using unique aggregates, colour, polishing, and other techniques.
A hard-wearing surface
ICPs are manufactured of materials with an exceptionally long lifespan. There are many examples of ICPs in continuous use for more than 40 years. Unlike some other traditional surfaces, concrete blocks are structurally resistant to frost damage, most chemicals, fuel, and oils, making them suitable for use in demanding applications. The durability of ICPs also means they require very little maintenance.
