Permeable Pavement Systems & Site Drainage

DIY construction and home improvement projects can get tough real quick once you realize just how much time, effort, and knowledge is required to complete a job correctly. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or general contractor, property management often calls for specialized expertise, like the installation of permeable pavers.

Great for reducing stress on overencumbered sewage and drainage systems, these pavers streamline runoff and manage excess liquid. But what are they, and how do they differ from standard pavers? Below, we have put together a quick guide on the basics of permeable pavement and the various options available. These systems are not only easy to install, but they provide versatility in situations where standard concrete or gravel is prone to erosion and damage.

How do permeable pavers work?

Permeable pavers are developed with specific technology that captures excess liquid runoff and provides a stable system for absorption into the ground. These units feature a series of open cells that are typically filled with either grass or gravel.

When it rains, these cells are designed to let water enter the surface, where it is detained in the base layer and slowly absorbed into the ground beneath. This is a major departure from traditional materials like concrete or asphalt, which are impermeable and lead to flooding, pooling, and rapid runoff. These paving grids feature a porous surface that naturally mimics the way the ground reacts to rainwater. In turn, they not only keep water from pooling on your property but also help reduce the amount of runoff that enters municipal storm drains.

Types of permeable paving options

Permeable pavers are primarily used in places where water runoff can cause damage. Some specific applications for these systems in the Canadian landscape include:

Driveways: These grids work tremendously well for driveways by preventing runoff and improving vehicle handling in wet or icy conditions. Additionally, these systems often require less chemical treatment to remove ice and snow compared to solid asphalt.
Parking lots: Commercial lots often experience issues with water buildup, especially those with improper slopes. A permeable system prevents this flooding and keeps standing water to a minimum.
Sidewalks: These systems allow pedestrians to stroll without the risk of water pooling, which is particularly helpful in high-traffic urban areas.
Gardens: Grids can be used to retain water in the soil and prevent erosion in rainy climates. They also serve as a sturdy foundation for raised garden beds.

Benefits of using water permeable pavers

Aside from managing runoff and preventing flooding, permeable paver grids offer several other advantages:

Easy installation: Permeable systems do not require heavy, expensive equipment like asphalt rollers. Installation involves clearing the ground of vegetation, laying a rock base, and interlocking the grids. They can be easily trimmed to fit around any objects.
Durability: Once filled, these systems are as durable as concrete, if not more so. They can support heavy weight loads from equipment, vehicles, and even 18-wheelers. Unlike solid surfaces that crack during the Canadian freeze-thaw cycle, these grids maintain their structure through the elements.
Sustainability: Most grids are made from environmentally friendly and recycled materials, reducing waste and maintaining better erosion control for the local ecosystem.
Aesthetics: When used for gardens and landscaping, these grids create a beautiful, "living" landscape that integrates grass or decorative stone into the design.
Low cost: While they may be a more significant investment at first, the money saved in the long run from avoiding constant repairs and surface heaving makes them a cost-effective choice.

Contact us today at Vodaland Canada to explore the highest quality drainage solutions and permeable paving options available for your next project.

DIY Guide