What is Permeable Pavers
In the past, mostly only the simple and rather boring lawn pavers were known – today there is a wide selection of water-permeable paving stones. Some of these hardly differ from the appearance of the “conventional” pavers but offer some interesting advantages that are particularly interesting for the yard and garden.
There are three main systems of eco-paving:
- Pavers with wide joints: concrete pavers with joint permeable are characterized by their spacers. The water enters the soil through the joints of the pavers. The joint width is usually about 0.4 in. The joints are filled with water-permeable mineral mixtures such as chippings.
- Paving stone without a small fraction: With pile-porous paving, also known as filter paving or porous paving, precipitation is absorbed and transferred by the increased pore volume in the stone itself.
- Stones with seepage holes: These pavers can be recognized by their recesses or openings on the stone in the form of holes, cavities, or chambers through which the water seeps away. The proportion of openings is usually about 10 percent of the laid surface. The openings are filled with a water-permeable mineral mixture. These systems are often used for interlocking pavers (as interlocking stones).
What are the applications of permeable pavers?
Permeable paving stones are particularly suitable for car parking lots and courtyard areas. But they can also be used for footpaths, garden paths or cycle paths. They are also particularly popular as patio slabs. Depending on the joint spacing, the water-permeable paving can also be used as a play area. The eco-pavers are also used on a steep slopes.
Water permeable paving stones as an attractive option
If you are unsure whether installing permeable pavers is right for your property, these arguments might help you decide:
- The choices between classic grid stones, water-permeable interlocking stones and seepage stones should provide attractive options for every taste. While grid stones allow grass to grow through them, the other models are very similar in shape, color and structure to the familiar pavers.
- The rapid drainage of rainwater is, of course, one of the real advantages of eco-pavers. They relieve the burden on sewage systems and channel precipitation directly into the groundwater or to the roots of trees and plants.
- The prices of simple water-permeable paving are comparable to those of conventional types of paving. Special models or color designs, of course, can cause a higher price.
How to install permeable pavers
The actual laying of the water-permeable paving stones does not present any major difficulties, because the procedure is not fundamentally different from the laying of other types of paving. Rather, it is necessary to pay attention to the correct processing of the substrate:
- In order to be able to process a sufficiently large quantity of fill under the pavement, the terrain must be excavated by at least 19.7 in. If it turns out that the subsoil underneath is impermeable to water, drainage pipes must be laid. In this way, you will avoid water accumulation under the pavement and prevent damage! This work requires special equipment and basic knowledge of the nature of the soil. The professional advice is therefore strongly recommended!
- The filling of chippings or gravel must absolutely be compacted with a vibratory plate! Otherwise, there is a risk of the flooring sinking in case of heavy rain or heavy loads.
- This is followed by the actual laying of the stones according to the procedure of all paving works. Make sure that, despite the fact that the pavement is capable of permeable, a slight slope should be incorporated.
- Depending on the type selected, the last step is grouting: Normally, sand or fine-grained gravel is used for this – the best possible stability of the substrate must be ensured!
How to maintain your permeable pavers
Because the pavers and joints are so permeable, other liquids and dirt can penetrate more easily. With the following tricks, you can maintain your paved area and enjoy its flawlessness for a long time.
- Regularly clear your eco stones of fallen leaves, twigs, and other plant debris. Fruit and other organic materials, in particular, could discolor the pavement unsightly.
- Did you spill sauce on the floor or tip over a glass of red wine while barbecuing with your family? Don’t panic: Carefully wipe up any residue with a dry cloth. Then treat the surface with a gentle brush and lukewarm water. If the stain still does not disappear completely, use a professional cleaner that is ecologically degradable. Chemical substances should not be used, as they could enter the groundwater.
- In winter, it is best to remove snow with a broom. Gravel can be used to prevent slippery surfaces, but make sure that it is not too fine-grained, as it could clog the joints. Road salt is also too small.
