Why you should consider permeable paving around your home – our top 6 reasons.

Homeowners are increasingly prioritising sustainable and eco-friendly solutions, leading permeable paving to emerge as a game-changer in tackling problems associated with flooding and stormwater runoff.  This paving solution presents an appealing option for homeowners aiming to elevate their property value and minimize their environmental impact. Let’s explore the top six aspects that make permeable paving a compelling choice for your driveway.

1. What is Permeable Paving?

Permeable paving is already well established, and government regulated in many countries where development threatens already over stretched drainage and river systems.  As more land is developed here in Australia our stormwater and river systems are under increasing pressure to manage the high volumes of surface run off which enters them.  This increases the potential for downstream flooding and erosion.

As an alternative to conventional paving, the Adbri Masonry permeable paving series can capture, harvest and even recycle rain and surface water runoff.  Permeable pavements can also reduce pollution in our waterways and mitigate downstream flood events.  Permeable systems work by allowing stormwater runoff to infiltrate through special voids in the pavement surface and into the sub base below where it can be harvested, or returned to the natural water table at a controlled rate.

2. Applications of Permeable pavers

Permeable paving offers versatile applications across various residential, commercial, and public settings, providing sustainable solutions for managing stormwater and enhancing outdoor environments.

For the homeowner permeable paving is a versatile solution for driveways, however there are many other outdoor spaces that could benefit from permeable paving, such as:

-Walkways and Paths
-Side Paths around the house perimeter
-Patios
-Courtyards
-Landscape Features
-Utility Areas (under rubbish bins)

Adbri Masonry’s permeable paving series are designed to meet diverse needs and the perfect fit for your project. Check them out here:
Unipave® 80mm
Turfgrid™
Turfstone™
Ecotrihex® 80

3. Benefits of permeable paving for driveways

In urban areas, large areas of conventional paving can contribute significantly to pressure on stormwater systems.  Permeable paving offers an opportunity to help restore a balance by allowing rainwater to infiltrate into the ground and alleviating pressure on drainage systems.  Here are some other key advantages:

-Reduces surface run-off.
-Reduces the risk of localised flooding and downstream flooding.
-Reduces likelihood of downstream erosion.
-Recharges groundwater tables.
-Ease the pressure on the already overburdened stormwater systems.
-Aesthetic appearance.
-Traps pollutants and prevents them from being carried into waterways.
-Facilitates biological decomposition of trapped pollutants.
-Can be used to replace or reduce size of detention / retention basins.
-Allows water and air to access the roots of vegetation.
-Water and air circulation can assist in reducing heat island effects.
-Can be trafficked immediately following installation.
-Paving units are pre-cured preventing shrinkage and removing the need for control
joints.

4. How do permeable pavers compare to concrete?

Permeable paving and concrete offer very different characteristics and benefits, here are some of the comparisons:

Water Management and Environmental Impact

Permeable Pavers allow water in infiltrate through the surface, reducing stormwater runoff.  Concrete driveways are typically impermeable, leading to increased surface runoff and pressure on urban stormwater systems.  There is also the heat and drainage pollution environmental advantages when choosing permeable pavers.

Installation, Durability and Maintenance

While permeable pavers require a little more planning when installing to ensure the subgrade base is suitable, the risk of cracking compared to concrete ruining the aesthetic appeal is of no concern in the future as individual pavers can be replaced if damaged without affecting the overall area.  General maintenance such as pressure washing is needed for both permeable paving or concrete.

Aesthetics and Design

Permeable paving offers a wide range of design options, including colours, patterns and textures.  Paving units can be used to create visually appealing landscapes.  Concrete can be stamped, coloured, or have aggregate exposed which may not offer the same level of customisation.

Ultimately, the choice between permeable pavers and concrete depends on factors such as water management requirements, environmental considerations, aesthetic preferences, budget and long-term maintenance plans.

5. Laying and installing permeable pavers

When installing permeable paving there are design considerations to keep in mind to create a robust foundation as the paving unit on its own does not create a sustainable water management system.

Preparation of the base course and sub-base material, is needed for the successful filtration of stormwater for harvesting, slowing the rate of runoff, or re-introducing runoff into ground water tables.

The permeability of the subgrade and the classification of the soil will play a role in defining what type of system should be used.  There are three principal systems that can be considered:

System A: Total Filtration – Allows water falling on to the pavement to infiltrate down through the joint and voids between the paving and pass through the sub-base layers below and into the subgrade.

System B: Partial Filtration – Normally used where the existing subgrade may not be able to absorb all of the water.  As you can see below, outlet pipes are connected to the permeable sub-base and this allows excess water that can’t be absorbed to be drained into other devices.

System C: No Filtration – Allows for complete capture of the water using an impermeable flexible membrane placed on top of the subgrade level and up the sides of the permeable sub-base to effectively form a storage tank. This system is used in situations where the existing subgrade has a low permeability or low strength and would be damaged by the introduction of additional water, or where the desire is to harvest the water.

For more detailed and comprehensive information, download our permeable paving brochure here

6. The cost of permeable pavers

Many people believe that permeable paving is more expensive than standard pavement. However, this is not always the case.  The long-term benefits, both in terms of functionality and environmental impact, make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, the long-term environmental benefits contribute to the overall value of the investment of your home. Ready to explore permeable paving for your driveway?   Get a quote for you project here

In conclusion, permeable pavement is an ideal choice for homeowners who want to invest in sustainable landscaping projects. With excellent water management, environmental benefits, low maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness, it is a win-win for both the homeowner and the environment. By choosing permeable paving, homeowners can address stormwater issues sustainably and provide a beautiful landscape to enjoy for years to come.

Have a question – get in touch with us here
Some of our permeable paving options have MTO (Made to Order) requirements, including minimum quantity orders. Please get in touch with us, so we can answer your questions.

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