Paving the Way to a Better Environment
Landscape designers know that every paved surface poses a challenge: Where does the water go? That’s why traditional driveways, walkways, patios, and courtyards are often more complicated — and expensive — than homeowners might expect. In the past, designers have planned for rain and runoff by installing drainage systems for paved surfaces. Drainage plans are usually subject to (and complicated by) a variety of city and/or county regulations. Permits must be obtained. Meetings must be attended. Headaches invariably ensue.
Drainage
Drainage is an important issue. Runoff from storm water enters our natural waterways and can introduce pollutants into the environment. And runoff from heavy storms aggravates flooding and soil erosion.
Permeable Pavers
Fortunately, there’s a promising, new alternative on the market. Landscape designers, environmentalists, and homeowners alike are excited about the debut of the permeable paver. This innovative product takes a different approach to the runoff problem. Permeable pavers are self-draining, allowing water to filter through the surface to the soil beneath. Yet they’re strong enough to withstand all kinds of heavy traffic, even large vehicles. A permeable paver surface can process up to 500 gallons per hour without a single puddle. So an ordinary Minnesota summer thunderstorm won’t be a problem!
Advantages
Environmentally minded homeowners are giving permeable pavers a warm reception because they reduce storm water runoff. Instead, storm water percolates into the ground. This process helps to filter pollutants and replenish groundwater levels.
Permeable pavers are also a boon to budget-minded homeowners. A permeable surface saves the cost of building storm water management systems, such as swales or retention ponds, into a project.
Best of all, permeable pavers look like traditional pavers so your landscape designer can create a surface that complements your site without compromising the esthetics of the design.
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