What Are Permeable Pavers and Why Use Them?

Installing a hardscape like a patio or driveway on your property is an investment in your home, and more homeowners who make this investment are selecting permeable pavers as the material of choice. The pavers themselves are not actually permeable, they are the gorgeous top layer in a system of many layers of various crushed stone and sand. The pavers used in a permeable installation look very similar to traditional pavers, but are made with extra space between them so rainwater can flow back into the earth below, instead of running off into storm sewers. Storm water does not go through the paver but through the joints between them and into the system below.
 
They’re Durable
Permeable pavers are the most durable material out there for hardscapes. They can be used in a wide variety of climates and can tolerate freeze-thaw cycles. From a small walkway to large-scale driveway and parking pad, permeable pavers are great for nearly any application. They can be plowed, they’re strong, and they resist the peeling and cracking you might get from other materials. In the rare event that a homeowner needs to access underground utilities for repair or replacement, reinstallation of pavers is possible and avoids a "patched" appearance or any loss of permeability.
 
They’re Ecologically-Friendly
Permeable pavers allow rainwater to naturally filter and flow through the joints. So, ultimately, the water returns to the ground instead of collecting pollutants and debris while flowing into sewers and storm drains.
Rain water absorption back into the soil below your hardscape reduces stormwater runoff flooding and erosion. It also lessens the impact on existing local storm sewer systems.Permeable pavers are more winter-friendly too, as snow and ice can melt and drain more easily with paver joints. This minimizes the chance of slippery surfaces and the need for harsh deicers.
 
They’re Beautiful
Even with all of their strength and durability, permeable pavers are beautiful. The options seem limitless, as there are selections in color, shape, and size. Different layeringpatterns can also be used and contribute to the overall appeal of your to your landscape. Different styles of pavers like a minimalist modern paver or an aged cobblestone can enhance or transform the character of your home.
 
Proper Installation is Critical
Permeable paver installation differs from traditional pavers in several ways. The pavers are thicker than non-permeable pavers. The joints between pavers will vary based upon the volume of water runoff to consider. Also, no sand is used between the joints, as water will flow through those joints.
 
A good contractor will also understand soil type and infiltration rates since you are essentially building a solid structure that you want rainwater to filter through to groundwater. It is critical to have a trained contractor who has experience with permeable paver installation. A failure in installation wherecontractor installs the wrong components beneath the pavers or fills the joints with sand or stone dustcan lead to puddling or water runoff toward a structural foundation. 
 
Permeable pavers are a more ecologically-friendly material, are more durable than traditional stones and pavers, and come in a stunning variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Gardenin’ Angels is an authorized contractor of Unilock and other permeable paver brands. We have the knowledge and experience in design and installation of permeable paver hardscapes throughout eastern Massachusetts.

---