If you’re searching for an ecologically sustainable and affordable alternative to conventional concrete, look no further. Permeable pavers are here to save the day by mimicking the natural water absorption of the earth and limiting potentially harmful water pooling and runoff. Keep reading to learn about the various types of permeable pavers that you take your landscaping to the next level.
Plastic Grid Pavers
Plastic grid pavers provide both commercial and industrial strength using slightly flexible cellular plastic grids that are typically filled with either gravel or grass. These permeable pavers are best for automobile or truck traffic due to their ability to support heavy loads. On top of that, plastic grid pavers hug the soil without developing cracks or potholes. Requiring practically no maintenance, these plastic grid pavers improve land utilization and have a manageable installation cost.
Rigid or Rolled Plastic Pavers
Usually made of hexagonal structures, rigid plastic pavers keep their shape and offer commendable compression strength. They do well with grass-filled applications, though they could potentially have complications with non-flat surfaces or with very heavy loads. On the other hand, rolled plastic pavers offer increased flexibility and work particularly well for light loads or foot traffic. They can be easily rolled for storage or shipping. It’s worth noting that rolled plastic pavers require staking which could inflate installation costs.
Interlocking Concrete/Brick Paver
Interlocking concrete or brick pavers are appealing because while the material itself is not permeable, the nature of the installation provides space between interlocking cells where rainwater can filter to the soil. This type of paver is best suited to residential or light load applications. It’s also worth noting that these interlocking pavers can demonstrate decreasing permeability over time.
Permeable Concrete
Lastly, permeable concrete — concrete mixed with stone and laid without a sand or gravel base — proves more porous than typical concrete. It also offers a more worn look than your conventional concrete pavers but effectively reduces runoff with its steady water absorption. Potential downsides to permeable concrete pavers are that it may require maintenance and its water drainage is limited compared to other permeable pavers such as the plastic grid pavers.
For more information about permeable pavers or an expert opinion about which paver suits your needs, please contact Permeable Pavers by filling out our contact form or giving us a call at (615) 266-6360. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you turn your conventional concrete into modern, ecological permeable pavers!