Consider Permeable Pavers for Sustainable Outdoor Living
Do you love the luxurious look of pavers? Are you considering installing a paver patio or driveway? You may want to consider permeable pavers. These products are growing in popularity in outdoor living design. This is partly because of state and local regulations, such as Maryland’s Stormwater Management Act. Homeowners and commercial property owners alike realize that permeable pavers can help protect the Chesapeake Bay.
You’ve probably seen permeable pavers and just didn’t realize it. Most people can’t tell the difference. They come in a variety of colors, patterns, and shapes, just like other pavers. You can use them for your patio, walkways, and driveway.
What Are Permeable Pavers?
Also known as “permeable interlocking concrete pavers” (PICP), they are used to help manage stormwater runoff on your property. With a solid surface such as asphalt, the water runs over the surface, or creates puddles, and eventually ends up in the storm drain system.
Permeable pavers allow water to drain and percolate down rather than running on the surface and out to the street. They are part of a system that allows water to run off through the joints to the layers of varying sizes of crushed rock below.
Click image to view animation. Image credit: Belgard.com
Professional Installation is Key
Installing a permeable paver system is not a DIY job, because of all of the preparation required. You don’t just lay them. It’s important to choose a landscaping company that has experience installing these types of pavers.
The team here at LiveWell Outdoors has the expertise you need. We install both Techo-Bloc and Belgard permeable pavers. You can choose from pavers that look like cobblestone, slate, brick, travertine, and more.
Watch Permeable Pavement Construction – Part 2
You Can Use Them For Driveways, Too
When you think of pavers, you most likely think of patios and walkways. But if you really want to make an impact on the environment and your home’s curb appeal, permeable driveway pavers may be just the thing.
Let’s face it. A black asphalt or concrete driveway is not the most attractive thing in the world. So, if you’re thinking of upgrading your driveway, keep in mind that with permeable driveway pavers, you can get a luxurious estate home look, and you help the environment at the same time.
Permeable Pavers Can Cost More, But They’re Worth It
Permeable pavers may cost more than other pavers, but they can also offer long-term cost savings. They may be more expensive to buy and install, because of the extra labor and prep materials that go into installing them.
If you have an existing drainage problem, you may have puddles of water on your driveway, or a cracked driveway where water freezes and thaws. You may also see traditional pavers lifting up on walkways because water has gotten underneath them.
Permeable pavers will generally last longer than asphalt or another paver system because they tolerate freeze-thaw cycles well, and they are incredibly durable. You won’t have to seal them as often, and we can replace individual pavers as necessary.
Routine maintenance is easy. Just use a leaf blower on low to clear out the joints as needed.
Dream It. Build It. Live It.
Are you thinking of building a new patio or installing a new driveway in 2021? Consider permeable pavers as one of your options. They are also a great option for your pool surround. Whatever materials you choose to work with, the design and installation teams here at LiveWell Outdoors can turn your outdoor living dreams into reality.
Schedule a consultation now to be first in line when the weather allows us to begin new projects.
