Porous paving might sound like an oxymoron, but it’s actually a fantastic way to prevent environmental damage and create a sustainable and environmentally responsible surface coverage solution. If you’ve never heard of porous paving, you’re not alone, but this type of pavement system is increasingly being employed worldwide by eco-conscious people and is definitely worth considering. Here’s everything you need to know.
How does porous paving work?
Porous paving is a type of permeable pavement that allows water to drain through the surface, thus reducing runoff and promoting infiltration into the ground. It’s a highly effective alternative to traditional impermeable pavement surfaces like concrete or asphalt, which contribute to water pollution, flash flooding and the urban heat island effect. Porous pavements are designed to not only withstand traffic, but to passively manage water run-off and infiltration in a sustainable way.
Large areas of impermeable pavement result in very little stormwater being absorbed into the ground. Surface water cannot penetrate through these hard surfaces to the ground, resulting in a build-up of water on the surface. This then increases surface runoff, as the vast majority of stormwater is diverted into local waterways.
So why is this a problem? Well, when you use traditional paving methods, pollutants quickly build up on your pavers during dry weather. When it rains, all these toxic pollutants (such as oil, fertilisers, heavy metals, detergents, pesticides, hydrocarbons, rubber etc.) end up being washed into the water system, where they can damage natural habitats and wildlife. As well, stormwater systems can quickly become over-stressed and overburdened with influxes of excess water. Stormwater needs to be absorbed back into the ground in order to recharge the local groundwater tables.
That’s where porous paving can really help. When it rains, the water will seep through the pavement and be absorbed directly into the ground, instead of pooling on top of your impenetrable pavers and then running away.
Benefits of porous paving
Porous paving provides significant environmental and sustainability benefits over conventional pavement types. It will:
- Reduce rainfall run-off, and prevent large pulses of water flowing into the stormwater system
- Trap and treat pollutants that can contaminate groundwater
- Help to cool the surrounding area
- Reduce the risk of localised flooding
- Help control erosion
- Allow water, nutrients and air to penetrate the surface
- Prevent nutrient egress
- Help refill and maintain groundwater supplies and aquifers
- Improve stormwater quality
- Reduce the need for rainwater retention facilities in earthworks or areas of land dedicated to stormwater management
- Assist with the decomposition of hydrocarbon contaminants
- Support sustainable development and liveable green communities
- Help to establish a more natural hydrological balance between the natural environment and the build environment
As well, porous paving offers plenty of other benefits:
- Can enhance the appearance of an area
- Can be used immediately following installation
- Can minimise or eliminate surface gradients
- Can be recycled when no longer needed
- Is a cost-effective alternative to traditional paving
- Can help reduce daily water use by allowing water to seep into the ground
Where can you use porous paving?
Porous pavement systems are quite versatile, and you can use them for many applications such as:
- Footpaths
- Patios and courtyards
- Low-volume pavements
- Residential roads and driveways
- Streetscapes
- Shopping centres
- Parking lots
- Schools
- Tree surrounds
- Swimming pool surrounds
- Walls
- Water harvesting applications
- Government/council projects
However, due to their permeable nature, they are not suitable for use on:
- Highways
- High traffic roads
- Heavy vehicle driveways (although they are fine for use with standard size vehicles)
Does it require much maintenance?
Many people mistakenly believe that porous paving will require a lot of complicated maintenance. It won’t. You’ll just need to do these few things:
- Remove leaves from the porous pavement during autumn’s heavy leaf falls
- Remove debris or sediment periodically if it builds up
- Inspect the pavement after storms or heavy rainfall to ensure the water is draining through properly
- Pressure wash as needed to remove any clogged sediment
- Inspect the pavement annually for signs of deterioration
And that’s about it. Doing these tasks will prolong the life of the pavement and ensure it works as it’s intended. With just a little bit of maintenance, your porous pavement will be able to make a big difference to the environment around you.
Don’t do these things
There are a few things you shouldn’t do with your porous pavement to keep it in the best condition:
- Don’t wash cars on top of a porous pavement
- Don’t stockpile materials such as soil, mulch, sand, waste products, rubbish etc. on your porous pavement
- Don’t let large or heavy vehicles drive regularly on porous pavement
- Don’t replace car fluids over porous pavement
- Don’t seal the porous pavement
Installation of porous pavers
You’ll need to prepare the pavement surface carefully, as the constant flow of water through the pavers can cause ground movement if not properly prepared. It’s best to consult a professional if you’re unsure how to lay this type of pavement properly. When correctly installed and regularly maintained, porous pavers will last for decades.
Where can you buy porous paving?
Go here to have a look at the latest in porous paving technology, whether you’re located in Brisbane, Redlands, Ipswich, Logan, Toowoomba, or the Gold Coast areas. Our porous paving products are made from the highest quality materials and are designed to meet the specific needs of each project,: https://heritageporouspaving.com.au/what-we-do/porous-paving/
Porous Paving in Rockhampton