Is Porous Paving Really Worth It?

What is Porous Paving?

Porous paving is a type of pavement or under surface paving structure that supports the load above but allows water to penetrate below. This permeable pavement can be made from concrete, asphalt or plastic but with small to large openings throughout the surface to allow rainwater to seep through instead of pooling on the surface. This constant stabilization and elimination of run-off also helps reduce flooding, mud and potholes.

Porous paving is frequently made from recycled materials, which gives it a smaller environmental footprint than traditional asphalt or concrete. Porous paving comes in a variety of materials and colors, so you can choose based on function and aesthetics. There are several different types of porous pavers. Concrete and Asphalt porous pavers are most like traditional concrete or asphalt but have small holes to allow drainage. Plastic porous pavers are a grid system that can be used under gravel or grass. Most porous pavers require less maintenance than concrete or asphalt over long periods of time.

Does Permeable Paving Provide Health Benefits?

Porous paving can help to:

• Reduce the heat island effect. Grass and aggregate porous paving do not trap heat like asphalt and concrete but instead retain the cooler temperature of the soils.
• Reduce noise pollution from traffic and other sources like trains and airplanes. Porous pavement absorbs sound waves, reducing surrounding noise and echo.
• Reduce air pollution caused by tailpipe emissions. Porous paving absorbs and filters emissions and toxins emitted from vehicular traffic.
• Reduce Ground Water pollution. Porous paving uses bioremediation to filter out toxins from the surface and recharge the ground water with cleaner water.

What Can I Use Porous Paving For?

Porous paving can be used in a variety of ways around your home or commercial project which means that it will suit any style or budget:

Can Porous Paving Help With Flooding?

Porous pavers, especially those with larger void spaces can make a big difference in flood prone areas.

When rainwater is allowed to drain through products such as porous paving and stormwater
detention systems, problems with flooding, run off and erosion can be prevented. As storm related events have become more frequent, this is increasingly important.

How Long Can Porous Paving Last?

Some porous pavers can last a lifetime. Concrete is an expensive material that requires
frequent maintenance due to potholes and cracks, whereas porous paving is generally much more durable.

Porous Paving Is an Excellent Choice for Outdoor Spaces

Porous paving provides a cooler, quieter, cleaner space that will last potentially a lifetime,
while still providing support for vehicular traffic, which makes it an excellent choice for any outdoor project.

To learn more about porous paving, visit invisiblestructures.com