Permeable pavement offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional asphalt and concrete surfaces. Is it right for your commercial paving project? Find out the latest information on this eco-friendly paving solution from the experts at American Asphalt, the Bay Area’s best paving company.
What is Permeable Pavement?
Permeable pavement features open pores that allow rainwater to seep into a reservoir or storage area, facilitating filtration into the ground below. Stone or gravel beneath pavers acts as a natural water filter. Depending on the application, it may be constructed from water-permeable asphalt and concrete slabs, turf blocks, plastic pavers, or recycled materials.
Environmental Benefits of Permeable Pavement
Permeable pavement can help filter pollutants like fertilizer, pesticides, bacteria, and sediment. It can reduce the ‘urban heat island effect,’ cool the temperature of runoff, and improve water quality in nearby lakes and streams, as well as surrounding habitats. This green paving solution can help prevent flooding and erosion, replenish groundwater, and reduce sewer backups. Permeable pavement also reduces construction costs by eliminating or reducing the need to integrate conventional drainage and retention areas.
Best Uses for Permeable Pavement
Our paving contractors recommend permeable pavers as a possible solution for the following applications:
- Parking lots
- Driveways and sidewalks
- Low-traffic roads
- Temporary roadways
- Bike pathways and walkways
- Commercial patios
We do not recommend permeable pavement for areas that undergo heavy pressure or hard braking, such as highways and airport runways.
Permeable Pavement Maintenance
Permeable pavement offers lasting use. However, maintenance differs from that of traditional asphalt and concrete. Reservoirs must be designed to facilitate proper drainage and may clog with time. To prevent backups and runoff, cleaning with an industrial vacuum may be needed to clear sand and debris accumulations. This occasional maintenance does not outweigh the benefits of permeable pavement, making it one of today’s most popular trends in paving solutions.
Are You Looking for More Sustainable Paving Solutions?
Find the ideal surface for your application and climate goals with help from the industry pros at American Asphalt. Learn more about permeable pavement and other eco-friendly solutions available in San Jose, Fremont, Pleasanton, Fairfield, Alameda, Burlingame, and Oakland. Contact us at 510-723-0280 to schedule a project consultation today.