Thanks to all who came out in the rain to learn about Permeable Paver systems. We were privileged to
have a representative of Belgard Hardscapes come and speak at our office on
December 12th. Ashley Snead has been with Belgard Hardscapes for over 12
years. In his discussion Ashley addressed design and construction of projects as well as features and
benefits of permeable pavement systems. Below I have included some bullet points highlighting the advantages of permeable pavers.
Advantages of Permeable Pavers
Managing runoff
Permeable paving surfaces have been demonstrated as effective in managing runoff from paved surfaces. Large volumes of urban runoff causes serious errosion and siltation in nearby streams and waterways.
Controlling pollutants
Permeable paving surfaces keep the pollutants in place in the soil or other material underlying the pavers, and allow water seepage to groundwater while preventing the stream erosion problems. They capture the heavy metals that fall on them, preventing them from washing downstream and accumulating inadvertently in the environment. In the void spaces, naturally occurring micro-organisms digest car oils, leaving little but carbon dioxide water. Rainwater infiltration is usually less than that of an impervious pavement with a separate stormwater management facility somewhere downstream.
Trees
Permeable pavements may give urban trees the rooting space they need to grow to full size. A "structural-soil" pavement base combines structural aggregate with soil; a porous surface admits vital air and water to the rooting zone. This integrates healthy ecology and thriving cities, with the living tree canopy above, the city's traffic on the ground, and living tree roots below.
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