Advantages of concrete paving slabs (CPS) are shown in front of asphalt pavements. The problem of preservation of decorativeness and durability of CPS in connection with porous structure of concrete is revealed. The need to reduce the capillary water saturation of CPS, including through the use of water repellents, is established. Field and laboratory studies of a number of hydrophobizing preparations have been carried out. The order of application of hydrophobizators and evaluation of properties is characterized. The results of a quantitative and scaled assessment of the properties of CPS after application of the preparations are presented. Hydrophobizers, which minimize the water saturation and water absorption of CPS, increase the resistance to UV radiation, alternating and elevated temperatures and reduce the peel strength of the frozen sample of concrete are determined.

Keywords: paving slab, concrete, paving elements, decorativeness, durability, porosity, capillary water saturation, hydrophobizing preparation, water absorption, peel strength