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Use Permeable Concrete to Reduce Hardscape Stormwater Runoff - Rainscaping Tips from Texoma Excavation & Construction
Use Permeable Concrete to Reduce Hardscape Stormwater Runoff - Rainscaping Tips from Texoma Excavation & Construction

Using Permeable Pavements to
Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes

Rainscaping Tips & Solutions from TEC

Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes

Rainscaping Tips & Solutions from TEC

Permeable pavement materials are engineered hardscaping surfaces that have a high porosity that allows water to flow through them. These permeable pavements are part of a rainscaping plan for developments that include sidewalks, walking paths, driveways, patio or other decks, and roads [19]. They help achieve multiple benefits as they provide surfaces to move vehicular and pedestrian traffic and reduce stormwater discharges. They are suitable for municipal stormwater management programs as well as private development applications.

Permeable materials for rainscaping were first used in the U.S. in the 1960s as the Environmental Protection Agency found it necessary to address rising water tables in Texas, Delaware, and Pennsylvania [25].

The evolution of these permeable materials for rainscaping seems to have begun with permeable concrete being the first material to be explored [16]. Concrete grass paving comes in one of two formats: cast-in-place or pre-cast modular units [16]. This suggests that the concept of permeable materials for rainscaping might have been developed by multiple entities over time, with contributions from various researchers, organizations, and companies.

Permeable pavements can provide many benefits for rainscaping.

The benefits described below are the overall benefits using these permeable pavement materials offer to rainscaping goals overall. Benefits of each type of material follow in the section below that discusses types of permeable pavement materials.

Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Reduction in Runoff: Permeable pavements allow water to soak in rather than run off, thereby reducing the quantity of rainwater runoff [5].

  • Improved Water Quality: The porous material filters runoff as well as allowing it to infiltrate the soil beneath, which can help filter out pollutants that contribute to water pollution [5].

  • Cost-Effective: Although permeable pavement typically costs more per square foot than the impervious counterparts, the overall environmental benefits (water quality, reduction in flooding and erosion) can benefit everyone and the need for more expensive rainwater infrastructure can be avoided [5].
  • Alleviation of Strain on Sewer System: By allowing rainwater to infiltrate the ground, permeable pavements help alleviate the burden on municipal sewer systems [3].

  • Prevention of Pollutant Contamination: Permeable pavements minimize the potential for rainwater to carry pollutants into storm drains, thus preventing contamination of local rivers and streams [3].

  • Mitigation of Flooding: Permeable pavements are designed to facilitate the flow of excess rainwater into the ground, helping to reduce the risk of flooding [3].
Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Beneficial for Tree Roots: Permeable pavement, especially open-grid pavers, is also useful when used to replace impervious pavement around trees to allow water and air to reach the tree roots [5].

  • Reduced Need for Road Salt and Drainage Features: Permeable pavements can also reduce the need for road salt and reduce construction costs for residential and commercial development by reducing the need for some conventional drainage features .

  • Positive Environmental Impact: Because permeable pavers allow rainwater to return to natural underground reserves, the impact on your landscape, as well as that of the greater environment, is reduced [11].

Types of permeable pavement materials and their advantages:

Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction

  • PERVIOUS CONCRETE: This is made from a mixture of porous materials. It feels and looks like concrete but is permeable to water. It is designed to channel water away from your drainage or sewage and absorb it into the ground [6].
    Advantages: It doesn’t produce a ‘heat island’, can be made using recycled materials, and since water seeps through the pavement, there won’t be any ice formation on it [26].
    Uses: It is commonly used in parking lots, sidewalks, low-traffic areas, and driveways [11].

  • POROUS ASPHALT PAVEMENT: This paving has small gaps between the aggregates that allow water to pass through the asphalt and drain into the stone bed. It provides a solid surface strong enough to withstand pressure and traffic [6].
    Advantages: It reduces stormwater runoff, treats water runoff, increases groundwater infiltration and recharge, provides local flood control, and improves the quality of local surface waterways [27].
    Uses: It is commonly used in parking lots, sidewalks, low-traffic areas, and driveways [11].

  • MODULAR PAVERS: These are normally made of precast brick, concrete, stone, or other material. They come in various shapes, normally interlock, and can be set to form shapes and patterns [1] [9].

Advantages: They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. They are more durable than poured concrete and are an affordable alternative [28].
Uses: Due to their durability and versatility, they are commonly used in driveways, patios, and walkways [28].

  • FLAGSTONE: Flagstone is a sedimentary stone that’s sliced into different pieces and layers. It is a popular design choice for patios and walkways in residential areas [29].
    Advantages: Flagstone is slip-resistant, resists moisture and heat, and can bear heavy traffic. It is versatile, easy to install, and requires low maintenance [30].
    Uses: Flagstones are commonly used in patios, walkways, and other high-traffic areas due to their rough texture which makes them slip-resistant [29].

  • TURF BLOCK: Turf block pavers, also known as grass block pavers, are made of concrete or recycled plastic with open cells that allow grass to grow through them [31].
    Advantages: They reduce stormwater runoff, one of the biggest sources of water pollution. They are a porous, eco-friendly option for driveways and parking areas [31].
    Uses: Turf block can be used in a wide variety of applications, from fire routes and parking areas to residential applications such as driveways and patios [32].

Mistakes to avoid when using permeable pavement materials:

Here are some mistakes that should be avoided when choosing, using, and maintaining a permeable pavement for a rainscaping task. By avoiding these mistakes, you can ensure that your permeable pavement serves its purpose effectively and efficiently.

Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Ignoring Maintenance Requirements: Permeable pavement requires different maintenance than traditional pavement. It is prone to clogging if the water in the reservoir isn’t drained out properly [13]. Regular maintenance, such as sweeping and vacuuming, is necessary to prevent clogging and maintain the permeability of the pavement⁴.
  • Neglecting Clogging Issues: The sand and fine particles that can block the space between the pavers must be removed using an industrial vacuum [13]. If clogging is not addressed promptly, it will cause the water and pollutants to run off the surface, defeating the purpose of installing permeable pavement [13].
  • Overlooking Strength and Durability: Permeable pavements are not as strong as traditional asphalt pavements [13]. Therefore, it’s important to consider the expected traffic load and the strength of the pavement when choosing a permeable pavement for a particular application.
  • Not Considering the Cost: Permeable pavement is more expensive to install compared to traditional pavements [13]. Therefore, the initial cost and the long-term maintenance cost should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement.
Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Neglecting Clogging Issues: The sand and fine particles that can block the space between the pavers must be removed using an industrial vacuum [13]. If clogging is not addressed promptly, it will cause the water and pollutants to run off the surface, defeating the purpose of installing permeable pavement [13].
  • Not Conducting a Percolation Test: The type of soil that exists at the site will determine the depth of the sub-base gravel/stone needed to accommodate the rainwater runoff [15]. Soils with a slow percolation rate will require a deeper base [15]. Therefore, a percolation test or similar infiltration test should be conducted to ascertain this.
  • Not Considering the Environmental Impact: Permeable pavement can be made using recycled materials, which puts less pressure on the environment to produce materials to build pavements and driveways [13]. Therefore, the environmental impact should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement.
  • Ignoring Aesthetic Value: Permeable pavements come in various designs and colors. Therefore, the aesthetic value of the pavement should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement for a particular application.
  • Not Considering the Climate: The climate of the area should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement. For instance, in areas with freezing temperatures, the pavement will remain warm and proves to be a safe surface for driving and walking [13]. Therefore, the climate should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement.

Permeable pavement Implementation BMPs

Here are some Best Management Practices (BMPs) that should be applied when adding permeable pavement materials in place of regular concrete, asphalt, brick, or other non-permeable materials. By following these BMPs, you can ensure that your permeable pavement serves its purpose effectively and efficiently.

Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Proper Installation: Permeable pavements should be installed on a crushed stone aggregate bedding layer and base, which can also temporarily detain stormwater that has passed through the permeable surface layer [17].
  • Maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent clogging and maintain the permeability of the pavement. This includes sweeping and vacuuming to remove sand and fine particles that can block the space between the pavers [17].
  • Consideration of Soil Type: The type of soil that exists at the site will determine the depth of the sub-base gravel/stone needed to accommodate the rainwater runoff [18]. Soils with a slow percolation rate will require a deeper base [18]. Therefore, a percolation test or similar infiltration test should be conducted to ascertain this.
  • Use of Recycled Materials: Permeable pavement can be made using recycled materials, which puts less pressure on the environment to produce materials to build pavements and driveways [17].
  • Consideration of Climate: The climate of the area should be considered when choosing a permeable pavement. For instance, in areas with freezing temperatures, the pavement will remain warm and proves to be a safe surface for driving and walking [17].
Using Permeable Pavements to Reduce Stormwater Runoff from Hardscapes - Texoma Excavation & Construction
  • Consideration of Traffic Load: Permeable pavements are not as strong as traditional asphalt pavements [17]. Therefore, it’s important to consider the expected traffic load and the strength of the pavement when choosing a permeable pavement for a particular application.
  • Addressing Potential Clogging Issues Promptly: If clogging is not addressed promptly, it will cause the water and pollutants to run off the surface, defeating the purpose of installing permeable pavement [17].

If you are interested in learning more about permeable concrete and rainscaping, check out these resources:

  • Rainscaping Guide: Permeable Pavement: This guide from the Missouri Botanical Garden provides detailed information on how to design and install various permeable pavement features, such as pervious concrete, porous asphalt, and open-grid pavers. It also includes a list of plants that are suitable for rainscaping in different regions and conditions.

  • Permeable Paving Options: This document gives an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of different permeable paving options, such as turf blocks, modular pavers, flag stones, and permeable asphalt and concrete. It also provides some tips and examples on how to use them for rainscaping purposes.

  • Permeable Concrete: Composition, Properties and Application: This article explains the composition, properties, and application of permeable concrete, and how it can be used for stormwater management and groundwater recharge.
  • Permeable Pavers: This webpage describes the benefits and features of permeable pavers, and how they can be used for rainscaping around your home.
Rainscaping & Naturescaping services from Texoma Excavation & Construction

Rainscaping in a nutshell is any combination of plantings, water features, catch basins, permeable pavement, and other activities that manage stormwater as close as possible to where it falls, rather than moving it someplace else.

Rainscaping & Naturescaping services from Texoma Excavation & Construction
What is Rainscaping?

Erosion Control Services & Solutions:

Farm & Ranch Soil Erosion Restoration & Repair

Texoma Excavation & Construction is an excavation company and erosion control contractor specializing in construction site erosion control. We design, implement, and maintain residential, commercial, and construction site erosion control plans. We use a variety of techniques to prevent soil erosion, including vegetation, retaining walls, and a variety of drainage systems for the job. [read more]

Residential & Commercial Soil Erosion Restoration & Repair

Texoma Excavation & Construction is an excavation company and erosion control contractor specializing in construction site erosion control. We design, implement, and maintain residential, commercial, and construction site erosion control plans. We use a variety of techniques to prevent soil erosion, including vegetation, retaining walls, and a variety of drainage systems for the job. [read more]

Construction Site Erosion Control

Texoma Excavation & Construction is an excavation company and erosion control contractor specializing in construction site erosion control. We design, implement, and maintain residential, commercial, and construction site erosion control plans. We use a variety of techniques to prevent soil erosion, including vegetation, retaining walls, and a variety of drainage systems for the job. [read more]

Rainscaping: Manage Rainwater Where it Falls with style!

Rainscaping is a term that emerged in 2008 describing a variety of practices that manage stormwater runoff in a sustainable and aesthetic way. Rainscaping is any combination of plantings, water features, catch basins, and other activities that manage stormwater as close as possible to where it falls, rather than moving it someplace else. [read more]

Naturescape Landscaping

Naturescape landscaping involves using simple techniques that mimic nature, such as using native plants, creating diversity, avoiding chemicals, and incorporating natural features. Naturescape landscaping can make your yard a safe and healthy place for children, pets, and wildlife, as well as save you time and money by reducing water, energy, and maintenance needs. [read more]

Landscape Grading & Excavating Contractor Services

Texoma Excavation and Construction Company’s landscape grading and excavation services involve leveling or sloping the land around a property to improve its appearance, functionality, and drainage. Landscape grading can help prevent water damage, soil erosion, flooding, and other problems caused by poor drainage or uneven terrain. [read more]

Drainage Solutions for Yard & Landscaping

If you’re experiencing poor drainage on your property, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards. Texoma Excavation & Construction can help identify the root cause of your drainage problems and provide effective solutions to keep your property safe and well-maintained.

Erosion Control Related Topics:

Overgrazing: Farm & Ranch Soil Erosion

Overgrazing can lead to severe soil erosion and degradation on ranches and farms, impacting not only the land but also waterways and biodiversity. This soil erosion can be caused by grazing cattle, horses, & other livestock. When these animals graze, they can cause physical damage to the soil, especially when the soil is wet. [read more]

What is an Erosion & Sedimentation Control Plan?

An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) document describes the measures and practices to prevent or minimize soil erosion and sedimentation during construction activities. In Texas, this is required for construction projects disturbing one acre or more, or is part of a larger common development plan of one acre or more of land. [read more]

Use Permeable Pavements to Reduce Hardscape Stormwater Runoff

Permeable pavement materials are used in rainscaping for walking paths and other purposes such as driveways, parking areas, patios, tennis courts and even streets. Rainscaping refers to any combination of plantings, water features, catch basins, permeable pavements and other methods of managing stormwater as close as possible to where it falls, rather than moving it someplace else. [read more]

Soil Erosion Types & Solutions

Soil erosion is the process by which soil is removed from the land surface by wind, water, or other geological agents. This discussion focuses on erosion caused by stormwater runoff. Various types of poor land management practices, including overgrazing, deforestation, overgrazing, intensive farming practices, and construction work, lead to avoidable soil erosion. [read more]

French Drain Systems

A French drain system (also known as a “subsurface drain”, a “weeping tile”, or a “rock drain”) is a trench filled with gravel or rock, with a perforated pipe embedded in the gravel at an angle so that gravity carries water away from the home. From what is visible, a French drain looks like a rock drainage ditch. When done well, it appears to be a nice hardscaping element. [read more]

811 Call Before You Dig Underground Utilities

Call before you dig underground utilities for any type construction project. This is the law, and it's there to protect your property and any workers from hitting buried utilities. By calling 811, you can create a notification that will be sent to all the utility companies that are within your work area, instead of searching for multiple utility companies and notifying each one about your project. [read more]

Resources

Past Excavation Projects

Pond Construction Residential Drainage Excavation Services by Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

The above image shows Texoma Excavation & Construction digging a new power supply ditch and tying into the existing live power supply near Melissa, Texas. The paver stones were salvaged to be replaced. All the PVC, electrical conduit, phone lines, and small electrical lines that were destroyed were anticipated.

Pond Construction Excavation Services by Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

Pond building is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. After all the planning, the first construction step is excavation of the area where the pond will be located. The pond excavation work shown above was near Montague, Texas. When this pond is full, it will be 7′ 2″ deep at its deepest point.

Trenching Excavation Services by Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

Residential drainage excavation work done near Denison, Texas. This client had some significant drainage problems during periods of high-volume runoff and tried to excavate a ditch to channel water away from his house. We were hired to polish the existing ditch and spread some grass seed.

Trench Digging Excavation Services by Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

Trench Digging Services

When ground conditions are favorable, open cut trenching allows for quicker and more efficient utilities installation and inspection than methods such as boring. Both methods have pros and cons. 

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Pond Building Services by Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

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Pond building is a detailed and meticulous process that requires careful planning and precision in order to create the desired shape and size. Aftre the planning and preliminaries, the first pond buildig step is to excavate the area where it will be located. The end result of a well-planned and excavated pond will be to increase your enjoyment of your property aethetically and in terms of its value.

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If you’re experiencing poor drainage on your property, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards. We can help identify the root cause of your drainage problems and provide effective solutions to keep your property safe and well-maintained.

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French Drain Systems - Texoma Excavation & Construction – Texomaland & North Texas

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2024-04-23T14:37:07+00:00
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