Why Concrete over Interlocking Stone

 

And the debate continues.....

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We started installing Interlocking stone way back in 1991 and continued to do so until mid 2010. We've learned some valuble lessons along the way but the biggest lesson we've learned is that no matter how deep your granular base or how great your compaction process or equipment is, interlocking stone is always in need of maintenance. We've completed too many jobs exceeding the industry standards for a solid granular base, usually doubling the standard for sidewalks, patio's or driveways and using heavy duty diesel plate compactors to achieve over 100% compaction for the base but we still found that the shifting and movements of the interlock started in the first year during our freeze thaw climate cycles. I can assure you that unless your contractor is completing an interlock driveway, they aren't using heavy duty compactors. It was typically in the second - third year that interlock areas required a lift and relay and if standard maintenance is not completed annually or the shifted interlock is not releveled, trip hazards and pooling of water occurs which excelerates the deterioration of the interlock base. Grass, leaves, dirt, soil and other debris also accumulate in between the contunious cracks prevalent in interlocking stone. 

We still provide interlocking services that is second to none, but it's our belief that concrete is superior to interlocking stone. 

 

 

Why Concrete........

 

With recent advances in coloring techniques and stamping tools, patios made of cast-in-place concrete are more versatile than ever before. Concrete is easily formed into any shape, allowing you to accommodate backyard space restrictions or incorporate attractive curves. With the use of stains and other coloring methods, you can also achieve just about any hue imaginable, whether you want to match the stone facade of your house or blend in with the natural landscape.

You can also choose from a vast array of pattern and design options, including stamped patterns, stenciling, engraving, exposed aggregate and more. While many concrete patios are designed to complement the outdoor landscape, some homeowners choose a concrete patio style that complements their indoor living space to create a surface that blends in seamlessly with the interior decor. Concrete can also be made to resemble other popular patio materials, including brick, natural stone and even wood. DurabilityI addition to concrete's versatility, concrete is highly durable and can stand up to the wide range of weather conditions found across the North American climates. In fact, many concrete contractors in colder climates take special measures to ensure the durability of the concrete patios they produce. Stamped concrete will last longer than any other type of masonry installation. The use a lot of mesh, steel and rebar in a 2-foot grid assist in controling cracking. In addition, the use of proprietary high-strength concrete mix that reaches compressive strengths of 4000 psi and includes reinforcing fibers.

Concrete patios provide easier maintenance when compared with individual masonry paving units and natural stone like interlocking stone and concrete is easier to maintain because it’s a solid surface. Unlike paving stones, you won't have sand-filled joints between units where grass and weeds can sprout. In addition, individual pavers can settle unevenly, creating dangerous tripping hazards. When compared with wood, a concrete patio saves you the labor of staining and resealing year after year, and it’s invulnerable to wood rot and splintering. Installing a concrete patio rather than a wood deck saves lumber and eliminates the need for regular maintenance with solvent-based wood stains and sealers. Concrete can be stamped, engraved, stenciled or textured to resemble pricier stone or brick pavers, and often at a fraction of the cost, especially when you factor in the labor savings. The aesthetic appeal and durability of decorative concrete extends the uses toand  your property will also boost the resale value of your home. 

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It's important to note that Edmonton and Calgary areas predominatly use concrete for driveways and walkways. In fact, it's rare to find asphalt or interlocking driveways in these areas.