What effect can paving stones have on a surface?
The abundance of finishing options available today translates into unlimited possibilities for creating an attractive space. Browsing through the selection of paving stones and slabs, we have a wide range of colours at our disposal, as well as interesting ways to display them. On the one hand, you can choose a uniform, subdued colour distribution on the element. On the other hand, elements covered with an original mix of shades are very popular. Many projects also use the charm of special visual effects on the surface, in particular:
the wash effect, subtly exposing natural aggregates on it
the ageing effect, enriching it with delicate irregularities, stylised as old, charming cobblestones
When planning a more complex development, which also includes stairs, walls, flowerbeds, etc., we can use concrete materials coloured throughout, so that the chosen colour is visible on all walls and can be seen from different angles.
More information about the colours and textures of concrete surfaces can be found in the article: Effects on the surface of paving stones.
What should be kept in mind when planning the design?
The extensive portfolio of colour effects can be a source of shopping dilemmas for some people. When choosing between cheerful melanges and the elegance of subdued colours, it is worth remembering that in the end they should blend in well with the surroundings – from finishing details to the architecture of the building. In this context, the word ‘good’ does not necessarily mean complete visual uniformity. In many cases, appropriately chosen contrasts or expressive accessories create an attractive, well-organised whole.
Can the paving stones have different shades?
Paving stones have been selected. It's time to make a purchase. It is best to do this by ordering the entire product range needed from a single production batch. This is because of the specific nature of concrete element production, which means that even within the same model, there may be slight differences in shade especially if they were produced at different times or in different plants. This is due to the fact that they are made from natural aggregates, i.e. raw materials that are not 100% reproducible. The variability of the conditions (temperature and air humidity) in which the products mature is also significant.
How to arrange multi-coloured elements?
Colour melanges create an extraordinary, attractive design. In order to spread them attractively and evenly over the entire surface, while also eliminating the effect of any differences in shades described above, the paving stones should:
be taken and laid alternately from at least three different pallets with extreme differences in shade (known as the 3-pallet rule)
be taken from the pallet vertically (not in whole layers)
Will the effect on the paving stones change over time?
Weather conditions, heavy use or various contaminants can affect the colour fastness. However, concrete elements are designed to withstand difficult weather conditions, and the risk of unwanted changes occurring and becoming permanent can be further reduced by using appropriate protective and care products, such as:
colourless and colouring impregnations
concrete paints and varnishes
universal and specific cleaning agents (e.g. for rust, efflorescence)
Take a look at the colour options for the individual Betard paving stone and slab models.
More useful information available in the article: How to choose paving stones and concrete slabs?
