Kerb comparisons: Granite kerbs vs. concrete kerbs
There are many different types of road kerbs used in Britain today. An unsung hero, the humble kerb carries out a number of important duties on our streets and motorways. They retain the carriageway edge to prevent ‘spreading,’ and they also act as a barrier between road traffic and pedestrians or verges.
Other areas of responsibility for the kerb include providing a physical ‘check’ to prevent vehicles leaving the carriageway and forming a channel along which surface water can be drained.
Once upon a time the most popular type of kerb employed to carry out these tasks were made from natural stones such as granite. As time has passed however, natural stones have been replaced by precast concrete. So which is best? Is there really any difference and does one do the job better than the other?
Granite kerbs
As a natural stone, granite kerbs usually tend to be more expensive than precast concrete kerbs. Whilst kerb stones that are specifically manufactured to do the job in hand are measured to a specific length and style, older kerbs – some of which have given over 100 years service – do not necessarily match this standard profile. This means replacing or repairing them can cause problems.
However the granite Kassel kerb is the natural equivalent of the standard concrete Kassel kerb – a unique, no-gap bus stop kerb for safe and easy passenger access – and is the perfect solution for use in conservation areas or where there is repair work needed for existing granite kerbs or pavements.
A natural stone granite is extremely durable, aesthetically pleasing, and is sensitive to its environment. Recreating the beauty of this natural stone is not easy.
Concrete kerbs
Precast concrete kerbs are now more commonly used due to their durability and cost. They can be manufactured to specific requirements meaning they can be tailor made to suit a particular job. They are easily shaped and moulded and come mostly in a clean and aesthetically pleasing grey. You can get more decorative colours but these are more expensive and are generally only used in prestige and ‘heritage’ schemes.
The evolution of concrete kerbs continues apace – for example a new generation of concrete kerbs know as scan kerb has recently entered the market. A ‘stick down’ kerb that is cost-effective, easy to install and reduces noise and dust contamination, it is set to take the industry by storm.
The argument between granite and concrete kerbs could really be characterised as an argument about old versus new, vintage versus modern or retro versus contemporary. They each have their own merits and advantages, and it really does come down to the individual job they’re required for.