The Easy Way to Lay Block Paving

Summary

In this DIY tutorial, the creator demonstrates how to build an efficient block paving path along a driveway. The project involves clearing gravel, laying a sub-base, and installing charcoal blocks in a curved stretcher bond pattern. Key steps include excavation, compaction, precise leveling, and screeding, followed by block laying and cutting. The creator also shares tips on materials like Type 1 stone and sharp sand, and the importance of the right tools. The final result is a tidy path for easy bin storage and transport, with a concrete perimeter to ensure stability.

Takeaways

• 😀 It's essential to have all the materials needed for the project before starting, especially with supply chain issues.
• 🛠️ The project involves laying a block paving path to make bin storage and access easier.
• 🗺️ The path is 1.5 meters wide and around 8 meters long, designed for foot traffic and bin access.
• ⚙️ The first step in the process is marking the perimeter and removing gravel before digging the formation.
• 🔨 It's crucial to dig to the correct depth and level, avoiding over-digging to prevent unnecessary material removal.
• 🔩 Compacting the earth and sub-base layers is key to ensuring a solid foundation for the blocks.
• 🏗️ Type 1 (or MOT Type 1) stone is used as the sub-base, which is made of crushed rock and graded for proper compaction.
• 🚜 The whacker plate compactor helps ensure the sub-base and sharp sand layers are compacted, providing a stable surface.
• 🪚 When screeding the sand, it’s important to keep the surface level to prevent uneven paving.
• 🧰 The blocks are laid in a curved stretcher bond pattern, and cutting the blocks is done using an angle grinder for precision.
• 🏁 After the blocks are laid, they are compacted using a plate compactor to ensure they stay in place and are tightly fitted.

Q & A

Why is it important to gather all materials before starting a project?

It's important to gather all materials beforehand to avoid delays due to supply chain issues. By having everything on hand, you can ensure the project runs smoothly and you don’t need to stop mid-way to wait for additional materials.

What type of block paving pattern is used in this project, and why was it chosen?

A curved stretcher bond pattern was chosen for the block paving. This was selected to simplify the job and minimize the number of cuts needed, as well as to follow the radius of the curved brick wall.

What is 'formation' in the context of this project?

In this context, 'formation' refers to the lowest point that the excavation reaches before adding the subbase layer. It serves as the foundation for the path, ensuring the correct depth is maintained for proper installation.

What is the significance of using type 1 MOT for subbase material?

Type 1 MOT (Ministry of Transport Type 1) is used because it’s a well-graded, hard crushed rock that provides a strong foundation for paving. It's commonly used in road construction and ensures stability when compacted, making it perfect for DIY projects like this one.

How does the compaction process work with the type 1 stone and sharp sand?

After spreading the type 1 stone, it's compacted using a plate compactor to ensure the surface is solid and stable. Afterward, sharp sand is added and compacted again to create a stable bedding layer for the blocks.

Why is screeding sand a critical step in this project?

Screeding the sand is important because it creates a smooth, level surface for laying the paving blocks. By using a straight edge to level the sand, you ensure the blocks will be laid evenly, preventing future unevenness or instability.

What method is used to ensure proper leveling of the blocks?

The leveling method used is 'line full,' where the spirit level is placed directly on one line of blocks, ensuring a slight slope for water drainage. This allows the blocks to stay level while ensuring water doesn’t pool against the wall.

What are the challenges faced when making cuts for the paving blocks?

The main challenge when making cuts is that the blocks often break in unwanted places or leave rough edges. The solution was to switch from using a bolster chisel to an angle grinder, which allowed for more precise and efficient cuts.

Why was a mortar mix with black dye used in the pointing process?

A black dye was added to the mortar to match the charcoal gray color of the paving blocks, ensuring the pointing in the radius section was aesthetically consistent and visually appealing.

What role does the concrete surround play in the project?

The concrete surround provides additional support to the perimeter blocks, ensuring they stay in place and don't shift over time. It's especially important for stability, particularly where there's foot traffic but not vehicle loading.