Architects and designers will be aware of the challenge of using natural stone pavers in outdoor spaces. Installed properly, they create a robust and natural aesthetic which will not degrade over time. However, while natural stone pavers are often described as “rectified” or “calibrated” (identical in length and width), they can often vary in depth. This variation may only be one or two millimetres but the impact on the finished terrace can be both unsightly and, in certain circumstances, a trip hazard.
How designers overcome this issue will vary depending on the supporting structure. When using a pedestal system alone, the fix is simple but what about when you need to use a rail-based system?
Levelling with pedestals
If natural stone pavers are installed directly on to the pedestals such PB adjustable pedestal, then shims such as the U-E10 or U-E20 can be used to compensate for any irregularities in depth, ensuring a level surface If you require a non-combustible solution than the A-PED range has 1mm and 2mm fire-rated shims.
The executive terrace of the European headquarters for Goldman Sachs in London is a great example of where this solution has been used. The project specified thick granite pavers for the terraces, creating a linear design. A combination of the PB pedestal system with U-E10 1mm rubber shims ensured the resulting terrace was completely level. You can see in the image below where the right side of the central paver is slightly deeper than the left, and has only required a single packing shim to make it level, whereas other corners have used multiple shims.
The challenge becomes more complex, however, when you’re designing for an irregular shaped space or creating random tile patterns. In this situation, a rail-based solution such as ALUrail would be required but these systems often struggle to accommodate the irregularity of natural stone as the the edges of the paver are in full contact along the length of the rail and shims cannot be used.
So, how can you achieve the aesthetic of natural stone in spaces which demand a rail-based system?
tAKING STONE TO NEW LEVELS
Buzon recommends paving ranges such as those from the AG Paving which are fully rectified and calibrated so suitable for rail-based systems. These reconstituted granite aggregate flagstones are durable and long lasting whilst achieving the aesthetics of natural stone.
The Fiamma flagstone is a high performance paver available in three colours and finished with a unique ‘flamed’ effect. The TerraPave is another premium granite flagstone, available in a wide range of colours with a durable aggregate top layer, making it ideal for pedestrian-heavy spaces.
Silver Tavira pavers were used in The Place, Nottingham to create a modern terrace as part of a new student accommodation block. The requirement was for a Class A fire-rated solution so the pavers were installed with the A-PED range using the A-PED-JOIST rail , creating a sleek contemporary design that ensures stability and uniformity as well as maximum fire-safety.
Terrapave from AG Paving with the A-PED System
conclusion
Planning on creating an outdoor space with the aesthetics of natural stone? Get in touch with our experts below for advice on the most suitable solutions for your project, ensuring a safe and stunning outdoor finish.
For further information on all aspects of your balcony and terrace paving projects, contact our experts by calling +44 020 8614 0874 or get in touch today!
