Permeable pavers are surface paving materials specifically designed to allow rainwater to seep through rather than run off as on conventional concrete or asphalt surfaces. [1]
Unlike traditional hard surfaces, permeable pavers limit surface runoff, reduce urban flooding, and filter contaminants such as dust, heavy metals, and pollutants directly on site. This green solution plays a key role in sustainable and eco-friendly urban stormwater management systems. [2]
The system typically includes five layers:
Made of interlocking concrete pavers.
Small gaps between pavers allow rainwater to pass through.
Designed to support the weight of vehicles and pedestrians.
A thin layer of fine aggregate (e.g., ASTM No. 8 gravel or clean sand).
Stabilizes the pavers and facilitates downward water flow.
Composed of medium-sized crushed stone (e.g., ASTM No. 57 or 40mm).
Functions as a preliminary filter and distributes water.
Made of large aggregate (e.g., ASTM No. 2 or equivalent).
High void content allows temporary water storage and facilitates gradual infiltration or drainage via piping systems.
Installed between the aggregate layers and the soil subgrade.
Prevents soil migration into the gravel, ensuring long-term permeability. [1]
During rainfall, water infiltrates through the gaps between the pavers rather than pooling on the surface. It then percolates through the underlying layers, which act as preliminary filters removing dirt, debris, and heavy metals.
The water is temporarily stored in the highly porous subbase layer. From here, two outcomes are possible:
If the underlying soil is permeable, water slowly infiltrates into the ground, helping to recharge groundwater.
If infiltration is limited or rainfall exceeds capacity, excess water is directed through an underground drainage system.
This process results in:
Reduced surface runoff and localized flooding.
Cleaner stormwater before discharge into the environment or ground.
Lower burden on municipal drainage systems and improved environmental quality.
Parking Lots: Implemented in public areas, schools, parks, and commercial centers to reduce runoff and flooding.
Pathways and Internal Roads: Slip-resistant and puddle-free surfaces ensure safer movement during rain or snow.
Residential and Industrial Access: When properly installed, permeable pavers can support heavy truck loads.
LEED Credit 6: Reduces stormwater runoff and pollution by increasing infiltration.
LEED Credit 7: Mitigates urban heat island effect through reflective, lighter-colored surfaces.
Groundwater Recharge: Allows rainwater to seep into the soil, reducing pressure on drainage systems.
Erosion and Thermal Control: Used along riverbanks and streams to minimize erosion and thermal pollution.
Proven effective in freeze–thaw environments; unlike traditional concrete, it does not crack.
Surface does not ice over as water is absorbed into the subsurface, enhancing winter safety.
Can substitute traditional stormwater systems, saving land and infrastructure costs.
Life-cycle cost is significantly lower than asphalt or concrete — one report shows a reduction from over $1 million to around $25,000 over 25 years. [3]
[1] "How Permeable Pavements Work," YouTube, 2016. [Online]. Available: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LHPzybDWtc
[2] K. R. and J. Ball, "A Review of the Performance of Permeable Pavers," 2004. [Online]. Available: https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/83833768/A_Review_of_the_Performance_of_Permeable20220411-14227-p1tdge.pdf. [Accessed: Jul. 2025].
[3] J. Houle, M. M. B. P., R. R. P., P. D. T., and P. B. P., "Permeable Paver Research Summary," Feb. 2003. [Online]. Available: http://americantrails.pairserver.com/files/pdf/PermPavers.PDF. [Accessed: Jul. 2025].
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