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Designing pavements to avoid cracking
It is not widely recognised within the building industry that an Australian Standard exists on residential pavements. Its application is pertinent for all types of construction methods including asphalt, concrete, spray sealed and pavers.
Concrete strength
The standard stipulates concrete used within pavements shall have a minimum strength of N 20 where it is to support pedestrian foot traffic only, laid at a depth no less than 75mm. This is increased to N 25 if light vehicles are to cross the surface (minimum 100mm depth) or N 32 if such vehicles are commercial (<10-ton minimum 150mm depth). Concrete pavements should be continuously cured for at least three days after the pour and have control joints installed.
Steel reinforcement
Reinforcement is required within concrete pavement where it supports both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. The strength of reinforcement varies depending on the position of control joints. Where joints are located at 4.5 metre centres, SL 72 mesh is required to support light vehicle use; this is increased to SL 82 where commercial vehicles (<10-ton) sit above the surface.
Mesh is not required if the pavement is to support pedestrian traffic only except where panels are irregular in shape, the panel length is greater than 1.5 times the width or control joints are installed above 4.5 metre centres.
Where reinforcement is used, it shall be held into position by bar chairs at a maximum of 600mm centres.
Limitations
AS 3727 can only be applied where the site has a soil classification of A, S, or M. Furthermore, it is not to be used for guidance on roads, industrial pavements or concrete pavements that use fibres as a sole means of reinforcement. This Standard is not referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC), meaning its application is for guidance only.
Engineering advice
It is best to seek engineering advice on pavement installation for situations that are not covered by the standard. It is also recommended you speak to an engineer regarding control joints and the appropriate time they should be cured once the concrete is poured.
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The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The content does not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal advice should be sought by members and customers with respect to particular matters before taking action.