Cabro paving blocks are widely used for driveways, walkways, parking areas, compounds and public spaces across East Africa. They are durable, can be laid and repaired in small sections, and let you create patterns. Making them is a straightforward process, but quality depends on careful materials and curing.

Step 1: Gather clean materials

• Cement: fresh, stored dry.
• Sand: clean and free of clay lumps, organic matter and salt.
• Fine aggregate or small chippings: clean, hard and the right size for the mould.
• Water: clean enough to drink or similar.

Dirty materials make weak blocks. Quarry products and sizes are explained in our guide to crushed stone sizes.

Step 2: Decide the mix

Mix proportions depend on the strength required, the materials and the machine. Ask your supplier or an engineer for a starting mix for pedestrian or vehicle use, then make trial blocks and test them. Keep the water content low: paving mixes are stiff and only slightly damp, rather than runny.

Step 3: Mix thoroughly

Measure materials with the same containers every time. Mix dry until the colour is even, then add water gradually. A uniform mix gives uniform colour and strength.

Step 4: Fill and compact

Fill the mould evenly and compact it with vibration or pressure, depending on your equipment. Good compaction gives dense blocks with fewer pores, sharp edges and better strength. Machines such as the I Shape Paving Block Press are built for this job. See also choosing paving mold models.

Step 5: Demould carefully

Remove blocks gently onto a flat board or floor in the shade. Handle them as little as possible during the first day.

Step 6: Cure

Keep blocks damp and out of direct sun and wind for at least a week, by covering them and sprinkling with water. Curing makes a huge difference to strength and durability. Do not lay blocks in a driveway until they have reached the age and strength your supplier or engineer recommends.

Step 7: Check quality

• Measure a sample for consistent size and thickness.
• Check for chipped corners, honeycombing and cracks.
• Where required, test strength and water absorption at an approved laboratory.

Check the current standards that apply in your country for paving blocks.

What next?

Learn how to choose thickness and patterns in paving block thickness and patterns, or see our introduction to the I Shape paving block press.

• cabro
• concrete
• paving blocks