Significance of the visual quality of concrete block pavements

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 1: Driveway as the signature piece of the building

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 2a: Color variations of products

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 2b: Discolorations caused by using “discoloring” joint fillers

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 3a (left): Discolorations caused by efflorescence

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 3b: Discolorations caused by damaged surface coatings

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 4: Installation of a block pavement on a water-impermeable underground car park floor slab

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 5: Consolidated bedding or joint-filling material

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 6: Discoloration of anthracite pavers caused by the loose joint-filling materials used

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 7: Joint fillers left on the pavement for several weeks

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 8: Water retention capacity of joint fillers

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 9: Insufficient water permeability of the base course or subgrade

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 10: Soiling and/or consolidation of the base course

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 11: “Checkerboard” pattern visible on a pavement consisting of industrial pavers

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 12: Paving blocks delivered from several plants

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 13: Secondary efflorescence caused by inappropriate site storage

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 14: Inappropriate site storage of paving blocks

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 15: Transport-induced discolorations

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 16: Use of a paving pad

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

Fig. 17: Vibration marks

Figure: MPVA Neuwied

During the past few years, the visual quality of concrete block pavements has become increasingly important because driveways and terraces are increasingly considered to be signature pieces of the building. In line with this trend, the number of complaints arising from visual deficiencies of block pavements due to a wide variety of reasons has also been growing.

1 Introduction

During the past few years, the visual quality of concrete block pavements has become increasingly important because driveways (see Fig. 1) and terraces are increasingly considered to be signature pieces of the building.

In line with this trend, the number of complaints arising from visual deficiencies of block pavements has also been growing. Such deficiencies can be due to a wide variety of causes. A design and site supervision process aligned with these visual quality requirements can considerably reduce the risk of, for instance, color deviations between the selected products...