Choosing the right sort of block paving

Block paving has become increasingly popular in the UK thanks to the wide range of bricks that are available.  Improvements in the manufacturing techniques have allowed blocks to become mass produced, which has helped drive down the price of block paving to a more reasonable level.  A block paving driveway or patio looks so much better than plain concrete or asphalt and many fantastic effects can be achieved easily and cost effectively.

There are two types of blocks that are readily available; kiln fired clay bricks and moulded concrete blocks.

Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks come in a range of shapes which will allow you to create some fantastic looks.  There are the traditional rectangular brick shapes but you will also find hexagons, cobbles and antiqued shapes.  They also come in a variety of colours and textures so you can have a modern looking driveway or a more traditional look from the past without it costing the earth.

Most concrete blocks are moulded to a standard size which can be a great benefit if you ever need to replace individual bricks that have been damaged or stained.  Most blocks will come with one presentable side but it is also possible to find reversible blocks which will also help when it comes to stained blocks.

All concrete blocks are prone to some natural fading caused by the sun.  If you want your concrete blocks to keep their colour for longer then you will need to opt for the more expensive blocks on the market.  These more expensive blocks use superior dyes than cheaper ones so it is a good idea to look at blocks that have been in place for a while before making your decision.

Clay Bricks

When it comes to clay bricks there are fewer shapes available on the market but this shouldn’t deter you from using them.  They typically come in rectangular, square and cobble shapes with two presentable faces, making them flexible should you need to replace stained bricks.  It is also worth mentioning that some clay brick manufacturers will be prepared to produce custom shapes for you if you are looking for something truly unique.

When it comes to the colour, clay bricks offer a wide variety of deep rich tones.  This is down to the way they are manufactured, as clay bricks have a natural colour and aren’t dyed.  This can allow you to create beautiful designs that won’t fade.  The real beauty of clay bricks is that they will last for a very long time in comparison to concrete blocks that typically last for around 20 years.

Preventing Mold and Mildew

During the winter, windows and doors are kept closed to keep in the heat. This can cause damp air to sit undisturbed in bathrooms and kitchens and lead to formation of mold and mildew. I have been spending time removing this in my home recently so I thought I would post a few tips on prevention.

Firstly, there should always be ventilation in bathrooms. If you are not lucky enough to have a window present then make sure that an extractor fan is installed. Leave it running for about 30 minutes after someone has taken a shower.

If there is a formation of mold then a combination of vinegar and water can be used to kill it off. This mixture will also not harm chrome that is found in most bathrooms.

Make sure that grouting is kept in good order. If there are gaps in your grout then damp can get behind the tiles and it may be there forever. If you feel the need to regrout, make sure that all the old grout is removed before applying the new. Make sure to use a silicone based grout for best results.

With these simple tips you should be able to keep your house mold and mildew free.