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Understanding the Science
One of the reasons that interlocking concrete pavers is preferable to a solid concrete surface
is the way that the interlock works as it makes them many times stronger. The science behind
this is down to the fact that it is the deliberate gaps left between the pavers that gives the
entire structure its strength and stability. Because the pavers despite being laid touching one
another do not sit flush is due to the texture of the surfaces with all those little pits and holes.
These irregularities in the surface texture provide friction against movement. Also when the
sand in poured into the gap between the touching pavers the sand finds its way into the pits
and holes on the surface of the pavers and this creates even more friction. Also as the sand is
compacted and forced into the gaps it not only holds the pavers together but it starts to hold
all the sand together. Now, should the pavers be restrained by a perimeter edge that prevents
them spreading then the sand becomes even more compacted providing even greater
resistance to movement. As a result the individual grains of sand cannot move without a
tremendous amount of force being applied in order to overcome this friction.