Hobbies And Interests
Subgrade
Subgrade is the lowest layer within a clay sidewalk paver system. Subgrade refers to the ground's soil composition, either loose or tightly packed grains. Before any pavers are installed, the subgrade must be compacted. This is usually achieved with a roller compactor machine. A worker drives the machine across a subgrade, densely packing the soil underneath. The compaction provides a solid base for the subsequent sidewalk layers, preventing excessive slipping or movement over time that can eventually crack a sidewalk's surface.
Base
Above the subgrade is the base. The base can be constructed of concrete, gravel aggregate or asphalt. This base, however, must also be compacted down with a roller compactor, creating another layer of sidewalk stability.
Setting Bed
The setting bed is the final layer before clay paver installation. Setting beds perform a number of different duties. They support the clay paver system and pedestrian weights by moving the load downward into the base layers, effectively distributing the forces and protecting the sidewalk's structure. In addition, installers can alter the sidewalk's height with the setting bed by adding more or less material. The setting bed is typically constructed from sand, mortar or bitumen, which is a petroleum-based material for road surfacing.
Clay Pavers
Clay pavers install on top of the setting bed in a chosen design pattern. Each paver must have spacing, or joints, in between each individual stone, measuring no less than 1/16th of an inch wide. The joints are commonly made of sand or mortar. The joints provide a buffer between each paver, allowing flexibility from ground movements and loads from pedestrians above. Pavers installed without joints can easily crack.