The Fascinating History And Purpose Of Pavement Curbing

The Fascinating History And Purpose Of Pavement Curbing

Have you ever wondered why pavement curbing is installed around roadways and sidewalks? Curbing serves an essential purpose in safety and functionality, but its origins date back much further than you may think.

In this blog post, PowerSurge Plus LLC will answer some of the questions that have been at the back of your mind for some time, like what are they for? And how did they become such an integral part of our neighborhoods?

Let’s take a closer look at pavement curbing and its history.

The History of Pavement Curbing:

Pavement curbing has a long and complicated history. It is believed to date back to 4000 BC in ancient Mesopotamia. Curbing was originally used to separate different areas within cities and protect against flooding.

Pavement Curbing Material History:

Curbing is typically made of concrete, stone, or asphalt. The first concrete curbs were installed in the late 1800s.

The material used for curbing has changed over time from stone to wood to concrete. In the United States, concrete became the standard material in the early 1900s because it was less expensive to install.

First Patent for a Concrete Pavement Curb:

The first patent for a concrete pavement curb was filed in 1911 by George Bartholomew of Detroit, MI. His design used a mold to create a consistent shape and size for the curb.

Bartholomew’s design was quickly adopted by cities across the United States and remains the standard today.

Purpose of Pavement Curbing:

Delineation Between Areas:

While the material and design of curbing have changed over time, its purpose has remained essentially the same: to delineate between areas.

Curbing is used to separate different types of pavements, like sidewalks from roadways. It also separates landscaped areas from areas of high foot traffic.

Acting as Barriers:

In addition to delineating different areas, curbing can also act as a barrier. Curbing is often used to prevent vehicles from driving onto sidewalks or landscaped areas.

It is used to provide pedestrian walkways that are separated from roadways. It helps to create a safe environment for pedestrians and motorists alike.

To Improve Aesthetic Appeal:

While functional, curbing can also be used to improve the aesthetic appeal of an area. Curbing can be used to create defined edges for landscaped areas.

It adds visual interest to pedestrian walkways and roadways. When done correctly, curbing can help give an area a polished and well-maintained look.

To Deter Erosion:

In some cases, curbing can be used to deter erosion. It is often seen in areas prone to flooding or where there is a lot of runoff. Curbing can help to redirect water flow and prevent soil erosion.

To Improve Safety:

One of the most critical functions of curbing is to improve safety. Curbing can be used to create separation between pedestrian walkways and roadways. It helps to prevent pedestrians from walking into traffic.

Curbing is an essential part of pavement maintenance, but it’s also a fascinating piece of history and engineering.

If you require curb installation or repair services in West Chester, PA, please get in touch with PowerSurge Plus LLC. We provide quality curb installation and repair services for businesses and homeowners alike. Get your free quote today!