Lesser-known applications for Archatrak's extensive range of porcelain pavers, deck supports and urban amenities


More attention has been given to permeable paving systems in recent years. Does Archatrak have products that meet this need?

Absolutely. For on-grade applications, like a permeable driveway, I would suggest our 2" thick 4"x4", 4"x8" or 8"x8" porcelain pavers. These pavers don't just come in an exceptional range of non-fade colors, but are scratch resistant, stain resistant, and won't suffer from freeze-thaw cracking like concrete. They also have small nibs molded on all sides to act as inbuilt spacers so water can easily flow through to the aggregate base. And the nibs make installation so much quicker and easier.

 
You now offer FRP grating panels. Where do you think these panels can be most beneficial?

Unlike in other countries, these panels are still very much under-appreciated in the USA as a highly durable deck surface for everything from marina docks to boardwalks. With their gritted surface, the panels are exceptionally slip resistant and, perhaps equally importantly, when used as elevated boardwalks over sensitive areas, the open grid still allows light to reach the vegetation below. What's more, FRP panels can be supplied in colors that will blend in with the local environment.

How else are FRP grating panels
being used?

Apart from the more conventional applications like decking for bridges along walking or cycling trails, other applications mostly relate to elevated decks on rooftops. Here, the 8' x 4' panels offer a solid and stable base for green roof planter trays, artificial turf, clay pavers, stone pavers, as well as our porcelain pavers. With adjustable height pedestals used to provide both support and deck levelling, these large panels are exceptionally simple to install, particularly as they can be easily cut on site to fit irregular shaped areas.

Archatrak StreetDeck parklet kits are an interesting product in your range. How did this product come about and what do you attribute to its success?

StreetDeck was basically designed around the concept of a modular structure, flexible in size, which could be delivered to any site on just a few pallets and installed with minimum labor, either on a seasonal or permanent basis. I think that's the primary reason that StreetDeck has been so successful, and continues to be so, even after so many temporary streetside structures were demolished after the covid pandemic.
I also think the fact that we use our porcelain pavers on the deck rather than more traditional wood or composite wood, has added to the success of StreetDeck, because there are just so many wonderful colors and styles available with porcelain pavers.

How can StreetDeck parklets
be customized?

Many communities personalize their StreetDeck structures, not just by filling the planters along the border, but also by commissioning local artists to paint the steel components of the deck. It's a delightful way to involve the local community in revitalizing downtown streets and bringing life to city spaces with StreetDeck parklets.