Written by Admin and published on https://www.doityourself.com/
Cobblestone is made hand cut, densely compressed stone and lava made deep under the Earth’s surface, so a cobblestone driveway can last many lifetimes. Cobblestone is one of the most durable stones on Earth, and is used for building houses, walls, patios, driveways and more. Cobblestone, aside from being so durable, is also considered as one of the most beautiful additions that can be made to your home.
Real cobblestone pavers, often called Belgian block, are made of granite and typically measure 4 to 5 inches thick, 7 to 9 inches wide, and 9 to 10 inches long. A paver edge looks best if it is installed along both sides of the driveway, but you can do just one side if that suits your needs. It’s usually best to set the pavers on-edge rather than flat.
How to Repair Cobblestone Driveways
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Cobblestone driveways are one of the most durable surfaces for a driveway. They can be expected to last for decades. There is little repair or maintenance required, but when there is a problem, you can generally remove the stones and repair just that area. There are a few problems that you can solve yourself.
Cracked or Broken Stones
If there are a few cracked or broken cobblestones in the driveway, you can replace them individually. Check for broken stones especially after very cold weather or heavy use of the driveway.
Step 1 – Remove the Stone
Use a screwdriver to pry up the damaged stone. Check the surface underneath and add sand or gravel if it needs to be leveled.
Step 2 – Reinstall the Stone
Put the replacement stone in place. Check to be sure it is level with the surrounds stones. Then, sweep some sand into the cracks around it.
Sunken Areas
Areas of a cobblestone drive can become sunken in due to problems with the underlayment. This can be a more extensive repair, depending on the size and depth of the area.
Step 1 – Remove the Stones
Remove all of the stones from the sunken area. Remove some stones in a perimeter around the area as well so that you can more easily level the edges. Inspect the underlying surface. Make sure there are no drainage problems.
Step 2 – Fill in the Area
Fill in the area with gravel. Wet it down thoroughly. Now add some concrete sand on top. Use the plate compactor or a hand tamper to level the area.
Step 3 – Reinstall the Stones
Now place the stones on the new base and fit them in tightly. Once the stones are laid, sweep in some new sand around them.
Discoloration
If the cobblestones have become unsightly by leaking auto fluids, algae or other kinds of discolorations, you can easily clean them.
Step 1 – Preparation
Mix water with the TSP (see the recommendations on the box) and load it into the power washer. Test the washer on a lower power setting and turn it up gradually until it removes the discoloration.
Step 2 –Wash
Now that you know the correct setting, turn on the power washer and go over the cobblestones. You may need to hold the nozzle at different angles to get all of the debris off of the cobblestones. Don’t forget to clean the curbs and driveway apron.
Step 3 – Rinse
Now fill the power washer with clean water and rinse the cobblestones thoroughly.
There are some problems that may require extensive repairs or help from a professional. If you have drainage or shifting soil problems, then these should be resolved be attempting to repair the driveway. To prevent any major issues from developing in the future, it is a good idea to walk the entire driveway several times a year looking for loose stones, areas that are out of level, and sweeping some new sand.
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