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Permeable Paving
Are you looking for a paving option for your home that not only looks great but is environmentally friendly? Why not consider permeable paving? Read on to learn more.
What is Permeable Paving?
The purpose of permeable paving is to allow rainwater to seep through a paved surface. The paving naturally cleans the water of pollutants and recharges aquifers and ground water supplies, rather than having the stormwater run off onto adjoining properties and into storm drains. There are a number of choices available for permeable paving – block, stone, brick, permeable asphalt, permeable concrete, and structural grids.
Benefits of Permeable Paving
Permeable paving is a safe surface, and has plenty of “grip” so you are less likely to sleep. There is less erosion on your property as the rainwater is seeping through the pavement rather than flowing off the top. Permeable paving is a low maintenance option as it does not require resealing or resurfacing. Finally, more water is available to trees and plants.
Be aware however that permeable paving does require regular cleaning in order to prevent clogging. Also, most permeable asphalts and concretes cannot handle heavy traffic loads.
Permeable paving also has cost benefits. Although it is more expensive to install than traditional paving, less stormwater management infrastructure is required. Such infrastructure includes things such as curbs, gutters, storm drains, catch basins, and so on and these can be reduced or even eliminated.
Choosing Permeable Paving
There are four main types of permeable paving that will be outlined below:
- Permeable pavers – these are great for the home and options in pavers include blocks, bricks, stone, and other interlocking paving.
- Permeable asphalt – the same mixing and application applies to permeable asphalt as regular asphalt, it is only the formula that changes.
- Permeable concrete – this uses more aggregate and a lower water to cement ratio.
- Structural grids – these use a high strength grid that is the framework to hold grass or gravel in place. The grid also prevents compaction and erosion.
Installing permeable paving is essentially the same as installing conventional paving. First, the ground is excavated to the required depth. Geotextile fabric is then placed to stop soil from migrating and mixing with the base layer. The paving material is then placed upon the base.
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Building Supplies
Landscape Architecture
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Paving