Concrete curbing provides an important protection for landscaping along roadways and parking lots, as well as providing some safety for people using sidewalks and other areas where you want to keep vehicles out. There are two main types of concrete curbing: pre-cast or customized.
- Pre-cast concrete curbing: This type of concrete curbing can be installed fairly quickly. Each piece is made off-site and the pieces are designed to fit together with tongue and groove fasteners. One end of each piece has a lip and the other end has a receiver so the pieces “lock” together during installation.
- Custom concrete curbing: If you are looking for a distinctive concrete barrier, consider a custom option. This is mixed onsite, and the concrete is extruded directly into the prepared trench from a special curb machine. Trowling finishes it off professionally and joints must be completed. It can also be stamped, textured or colored for a unique and appealing finish.
Whether you choose pre-cast concrete curbing or the customized option, the installation process is somewhat similar. The installation site will need to be evaluated so your curbing can be designed and planned. The weather can be a big variable for the installation of curbing, particularly if you choose to install customized curbing. The ground has to be prepared with a sod cutter and shovels. A trench will be dug where the curbing will be installed. The soil in the bottom of the trench must be tamped down solid and then three to four inches of sand is layered in. This helps level the area for your concrete curbing and provide a solid base that will resist sinking later.