Everything You Need To Know About Road kerb

When it comes to road construction and maintenance, there are many factors to consider. One of the most critical aspects is the road kerb. Road kerbs are the raised edge of the pavement that helps contain the road surface and prevent vehicles from veering off the road. OM Concrete Products is a leading kerb stone manufacturer and has been providing quality kerbs for various infrastructure projects for several years.

In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive road kerb details, including the different types, their purpose, and their benefits.

What Is Road Kerbs?

Road kerbs are an essential component of roadways and are designed to provide a physical and visible separation between different types of traffic, such as vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Road kerbs stone also serve as a barrier to prevent vehicles from leaving the road and going onto sidewalks, lawns, and other areas.

Purposes of Road Kerb: 

Road kerbs serve several important purposes in road construction and maintenance. One of the primary purposes of road kerbs is to provide a physical barrier between the road and the surrounding terrain. This helps to prevent soil erosion and damage to the road caused by weather and other natural factors.

Another important purpose of road kerbs is to help channel water away from the road surface. By directing water to drainage systems or roadside ditches, road kerbs can prevent flooding and water damage to the road.

Benefits of Road Kerbs

In addition to their primary purpose, road kerbs provide several benefits, including:

Improved Safety:

Road kerbs help to improve safety on the road by preventing vehicles from leaving the road surface.

Better Drainage:

Channel kerbs help to direct water away from the road surface, preventing flooding and damage to the road.

Enhanced Aesthetics:

Road kerbs can be designed to enhance the aesthetics of the road, providing a more pleasing visual appearance.

Increased Property Value:

Well-designed road kerbs can increase the value of adjacent properties by improving the overall look and feel of the area.

Types of Road Kerbs:

There are four types of kerbs:-

• Low or Mountable Kerbs.
• Low-Speed Barrier or Urban Parking Kerbs.
• High-Speed Barrier Kerbs.
• Submerged Kerbs.

1. Low or Mountable Kerbs

Low or mountable kerbs, also known as class I kerbs, are designed to control traffic and ensure that vehicles stay within their designated lanes. The primary advantage of this type of kerb stone is that it provides easy access for drivers to enter the shoulder area. This feature makes it ideal for roads with a longitudinal drainage system.

Low or mountable kerbs are typically 70 to 80 mm in height, making them easy to drive over without causing damage to the vehicle. This type of kerb is also useful in areas where pedestrian safety is a concern, such as school zones or residential areas.

2. Low-Speed Barrier or Urban Parking Kerbs

Low-speed barrier or urban parking kerbs, also known as class II kerbs, are designed to prevent slow-moving or parked vehicles from encroaching on footpaths. They are typically 150 to 200 mm in height, which makes them effective in preventing vehicles from scraping their tires or damaging the kerb.

In addition to providing a barrier for parked vehicles, low-speed barrier kerbs also serve as an access point for emergency vehicles. This feature is particularly useful in areas where parking is limited, such as in urban areas or near public facilities.

3. High-Speed Barrier Kerbs

High-speed barrier kerbs, also known as class III kerbs, are designed to provide a barrier for vehicles traveling at high speeds. They are typically used in critical areas such as bridges or mountain roads, where safety is a top priority.

The height of high-speed barrier kerbs ranges from 230 to 450 mm or more, depending on the location and the level of protection required. They are designed to withstand the impact of high-speed collisions, providing an effective barrier for both vehicles and pedestrians.

4. Submerged Kerbs

Submerged kerbs, also known as class IV kerbs, are designed to provide lateral stability for pavements on rural roads. They are typically made from standing bricks or concrete blocks, and they are placed between the edges and shoulders of the road.

The primary function of submerged kerbs is to provide lateral support for the granular base course and flexible pavements. They are also useful in preventing erosion and controlling water runoff.

Functions of Kerbs:

• Kerbs serve as a barrier between the roadway and the pedestrian walkway.
• They offer stability and reinforcement to the pavement structure.
• Kerbs facilitate the proper drainage of rainwater or melted snow and ice by directing it into storm drains.
• They enhance the visual appeal of the road surface.
• Kerbs promote safety and security for both motorists and pedestrians.
• They are utilized at bus stops to facilitate passenger boarding and alighting.

Materials Used:

Road kerbs can be made from various materials, including concrete, stone, and plastic. Here are some of the most common materials used for road kerbs:

Concrete: Concrete kerbs are the most popular type of kerbs used in road construction. They are durable, long-lasting, and can withstand heavy traffic.

Stone: Stone kerbs are a popular choice for heritage areas and historic districts. They are visually appealing and can blend in with the surrounding environment.

Plastic: Plastic kerbs are lightweight and easy to install. They are commonly used in areas where there is low traffic or in residential areas.

Installation Process of road kerbs:

The installation process of road kerbs varies depending on the type of kerb and the material used. Here are the general steps involved in installing road kerbs:

Excavation: The area where the kerbs will be installed is excavated to the required depth.

Sub-base: A sub-base of crushed stone or concrete is laid to provide a stable foundation for the kerbs.

Setting out: The location and height of the kerbs are marked out.

Kerb laying: The kerbs are laid on a bed of mortar, and the joints are filled with mortar to provide stability.

Backfilling: The area behind the kerbs is backfilled with soil or crushed stone.

Maintenance Tips of road kerbs:

Regular maintenance of road kerbs is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Here are some maintenance tips for road kerbs:

Regular cleaning: Road kerbs should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt, debris, and vegetation.

Inspection: Regular inspection of road kerbs can help detect any damage or wear and tear.

Repairs: Any damage or wear and tear to road kerbs should be repaired promptly to prevent further damage.

Replacement: Road kerbs that are beyond repair should be replaced to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Final words:

Road kerbs play a crucial role in road construction and maintenance. They provide a physical barrier between the road and adjacent areas, preventing accidents and damage to property. There are several types of road kerbs, each with its unique characteristics and benefits. When selecting road kerbs, it is essential to consider the intended use and traffic volume. Choosing the right road kerbs can help to improve safety, enhance aesthetics, and increase property value.

FAQs:

What is the purpose of road kerbs?

Road kerbs serve several purposes, including providing a physical barrier between the road and footpath, directing water flow, and guiding vehicles and pedestrians.

What are the types of road kerbs?

The most common types of road kerbs are Low or Mountable Kerbs,Low-Speed Barrier or Urban Parking Kerbs, High-Speed Barrier Kerbs and Submerged Kerbs.

What materials are used for road kerbs?

Road kerbs can be made from various materials, including concrete, stone, and plastic.

How are road kerbs installed?

The installation process of road kerbs varies depending on the type of kerb and the material used. Generally, the process involves excavation, sub-base laying, setting out, kerb laying, and backfilling.

How do I maintain road kerbs?

Regular cleaning, inspection, repairs, and replacement are essential for maintaining road kerbs.

Are road kerbs necessary for roadways?

Yes, road kerbs are necessary for roadways as they provide a physical barrier between different types of traffic and ensure road safety.

What is the role of road kerbs in preventing soil erosion?

Road kerbs play a significant role in preventing soil erosion by controlling the flow of water and directing it towards the designated drainage areas.