Interlocking flooring has been gaining prominence in recent times and not only because it presents itself as a sustainable alternative. Its versatility, practicality, durability and cost-benefit have also contributed directly to all this success .And, believe it or not, the advantages of this type of coating don’t stop there.
In this article, in addition to understanding what interlocking flooring is and how it works, you will learn about the different types available on the market, the different application possibilities, costs and reasons to invest in this option.
Interlocking floor: what is it and how does it work?
By the name, you should already have an idea of what interlocking flooring is, but the proposal here is to explain how this internally interlocking flooring works in practice. So let’s go!
In short, interlocking flooring is a type of coating made with precast concrete and interlocking with sealing sand.
Some people know it as cement block, paving block, draining pavement and paver.
However, it is important to clarify that these are the names of the pieces used to form an interlocking floor.
First of all, the most incredible thing about this method is that there is no laying of the floor with concrete or mortar.
Install interlocking flooring directly on the ground and a layer of sand. The design locks in place through lateral containment and friction between the pieces. This setup distributes the load across the blocks, allowing the entire system to support the weight effectively.
See also: What to consider when choosing interlocking blocks to avoid losses?
The History of Pavers: Interlocking Pavements Around the World
Where can interlocking flooring be used?
Interlocking flooring is also an option for roads and public spaces, as well as outdoor areas of homes.
First of all, one of the advantages of interlocking flooring is precisely the possibility of using it in the most different places, whether in residential, commercial or even public areas.
In homes, in addition to the garage, this type of coating is often used in places such as sidewalks, entrances, walkways and pool decks.
As well as in leisure areas of condominiums, internal accesses and sections where people pass through.
Outside the home, it is common to find it on the paving of roads, streets, cycle paths, squares, parks, parking lots, gas stations and external areas of hotels, restaurants and shopping centers.
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As well as in industries, maneuvering yards, landfills, ports, airports and similar locations.
Types of interlocking flooring
In addition to a wide range of colors, the blocks used in interlocking flooring have different shapes, thicknesses and functions.
In general, interlocking flooring is classified into four types:
- Rectangular : the classic and popular model, which can be laid in a herringbone or rows;
- Single : in this case, the block can only be laid in rows;
- Characteristic geometric : comes in trapezoidal, hexagonal and trihedral shapes;
- Sets : a kind of puzzle, with pieces of different sizes or a single piece with a false joint.
But it is very likely that you will hear about other formats such as sixteen faces/wave, bone, racket, three ends, hollow models for filling with grass, among others.
How to install the 16-sided paver? And the hexagonal block?
Its thickness varies depending on how it is used: 4 cm for pedestrian traffic areas, 6 and 8 cm for light vehicle traffic; and 10 and 12 cm for areas with heavy traffic, especially heavy vehicles.
Regarding its function, we can mention, in addition to surface coating, pod tactile signage and the production of parking areas with permeability through open spaces.
Why invest in interlocking flooring? The advantages of this type of flooring
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the advantages of interlocking flooring are not limited to sustainability, versatility, practicality and durability.
There are a number of other reasons to invest in this alternative. Some of the main ones include:
- Wide variety of options, with shapes, sizes and colors that suit the most different project styles;
- Possibility of creating special designs or signs with different parts;
- Ability to be used in a wide range of locations, as already mentioned;
- High resistance, both to heavy vehicle traffic and large loads, as well as to climatic actions and chemical products;
- Long useful life, approximately 20 years, practically double that of asphalt pavements;
- Excellent cost-benefit, as you will see better in the next topic;
- Easy and quick installation, eliminating the need for heavy machinery or complex equipment;
- Practically immediate release of the settled area after completion of execution;
- Low maintenance, easy to implement and without loss of material;
- Ease of removal and possibility of reuse, including manual relocation of blocks;
- Reduction in painting maintenance costs, due to its color;
- Anti-slip function, an excellent advantage for the elderly or people with mobility difficulties;
- Permeable material, which provides better drainage of rainwater into the soil;
- The blocks follow the floor’s movements without cracking;
- Does not accumulate dirt and germs, as it does not have grout;
- An alternative for uneven terrain;
- Reduction of the risk of aquaplaning of cars on roads and public roads;
- They increase light reflection, resulting in public energy savings;
- Among many others.
What is the price per m² of interlocking flooring?
In addition to being affordable, this type of coating has low maintenance cost .Another great advantage of interlocking flooring is that its price is considered affordable.
Although the price varies depending on the region, establishment and model chosen, among other factors, it is possible to find blocks for R$1.50 per piece.
But it should be noted that this value can reach almost R$10 in certain cases.
The cost of labor is usually around R$4/m². However, there is also a variation in the price of this service that can go from R$1 to R$6.
Furthermore, it is worth noting that the maintenance cost of interlocking flooring is lower than that required for other types of flooring, including because it does not require major repairs.
Are interlocking flooring and cobblestone the same thing?
Although some people refer to interlocking flooring as synonymous with cobblestone, the truth is that they are different coverings.
Among their main differences is the fact that the gaps in the blocks of the first are filled with grout or sand, while gravel is used in the second.
Furthermore, the cobblestone is secured with concrete or granite guides, which makes it difficult to remove.
On the other hand, interlocking flooring can be easily handled manually and even reused, saving time and money.
Conclusion
Interlocking flooring offers a versatile and practical solution for both residential and commercial spaces. Its ease of installation and maintenance, combined with a variety of design options, make it an ideal choice for those seeking durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether for a gym, playroom, or outdoor area, interlocking flooring provides a seamless blend of functionality and style, ensuring that your space remains both attractive and resilient.
