Thoughts on using Permeable Pavers

[Alan]

I have been seeing a lot of driveways and patios built with permeable pavers. This design that lets rainwater soak right through the surface instead of just running off and pooling up. Sounds familiar?

This is a big plus because it really helps with drainage and reduces runoff. It can even help projects qualify for LEED certification which is good for everyone. But you have to clean them often so the gaps do not get clogged up with dirt or weeds. And I worry they are not the best choice if you live where the winter includes hard freezing and thawing cycles.

Anyone have a good trick for quickly clearing out clogged joints? How well do these pavers hold up after several harsh winters anyway?

 

[purriitttooo]

I have been seeing a lot of driveways and patios built with permeable pavers. This design that lets rainwater soak right through the surface instead of just running off and pooling up. Sounds familiar?

This is a big plus because it really helps with drainage and reduces runoff. It can even help projects qualify for LEED certification which is good for everyone. But you have to clean them often so the gaps do not get clogged up with dirt or weeds. And I worry they are not the best choice if you live where the winter includes hard freezing and thawing cycles.

Anyone have a good trick for quickly clearing out clogged joints? How well do these pavers hold up after several harsh winters anyway?

What I noticed is that most people in our neighborhood are using a shop vac or a leaf blower on low to clean the joints before debris builds up.

 

[last goodbye]

If you are experiencing system failures, usually this happens if you skipped steps during installation rather than the pavers not being able to handle the weather.

 

[crazy reese]

I agree with @last goodbye! That's a very common mistake if you skipped a step. You will also notice it during winter.