Permeable Pavers

Permeable Pavers are pavers with spaces intentionally built in to allow water to percolate through the spaces into the ground. The spaces are typically filled with gravel or vegetation. Permeable Pavers are a paving alternative to more traditional types of hardscape flooring materials. Traditional pavers do not allow much water to infiltrate, particularly if they are mortared in place. Water would normally hit the surface and then flow down to the nearest drainage channel, and become storm water runoff.
The use of Permeable Pavers will preserve the quality of water, while also increasing the quantity of good quality water. Storm water brings with it pollutants, chemicals, fertilizers, sediment and oils, destroying the quality of water flowing into the catch basin areas. Permeable pavers permit rainwater to be absorbed by the ground underneath, while still managing to provide a stable surface for vehicles. Note should also be taken that in some cases building codes require the use of Permeable Pavers for driveways or other large paved surfaces, it's always a good idea to check with your local building inspector to see if your project falls under the State requirements.

The Advantages & Benefits of Using Permeable Pavers:

• Increases the water quality by the natural filtration of contaminants
• Increases the quantity (by recharging the aquifer) of quality water
• Aid in reduced installation costs of drainage system
• Reduces storm water runoff, and the associated pollutants
• Reduces flooding
• Reduces erosion caused by flooding
• Preserves our stream beds and river banks
• Increases storm water storage
• Promotes groundwater recharge
• Can sustain heavy loads

The Applications of Permeable Pavers:

• Commercial and residential driveways
• Public parking lots
• Emergency vehicles access lanes
• Fire lanes
• Pedestrian paths
• Landscaping techniques
• Soil reinforcement and stabilization
• Irrigation techniques

Maintenance of Permeable Pavers:

• Regular ( 2-4 times a year ) vacuum or sweeping of porous paver surface to remove any silt or debris build up
• Periodic replacement of gravel or vegetation
• If vegetation is used, any clippings must be collected and removed to prevent clogging from occurring
• Annual inspection of paver blocks for damage, and periodic inspection during and after rain events to ensure that infiltration is occurring

In order for Permeable Pavers to function as they should, it is important for the installation to be done properly. This will ensure the Paver's success. Depending on what type of Permeable Pavers you are installing, make sure that you have all the necessary information you need. It is recommended that you hire an experienced contractor if you are installing Concrete Interlocking Pavers. While commercial applications should almost always be engineered, residential applications do not need to be, providing the installation is done by a qualified contractor. Though there are times that engineering is both prudent and necessary. Those who live in flood plains, near beaches or waterways that are prone to overflowing should be engineered. Even those who wish to protect themselves from a "100 year" rain storm may want to consider it. Think of engineering as a form of insurance policy that the system is designed correctly and will perform as expected.