Putting in a New Patio, Walkways, or Driveway? Consider Permeable Pavers

Summer is in full swing, and so are all sorts of outdoor projects at homes across Maryland. Summer is a great time to install a new patio, upgrade your walkways, and replace that cracked and ugly concrete or asphalt driveway.

Before you decide to go with stamped concrete or pavers, think about using permeable pavers. What are permeable pavers, you ask? For our purposes today, we’re going to talk about permeable interlocking concrete pavers.  These pavers look like natural stone just like regular pavers. But they are porous (or pervious), and the installation process allows groundwater to percolate between the pavers and down into the ground or substrate.

This of course reduces stormwater runoff.  By reducing runoff, you help reduce the pollutants that enter local streams and rivers, and eventually, the Chesapeake Bay. According to the Chesapeake Bay Program, stormwater runoff is the fastest-growing source of pollution in the Bay. 

By reducing the impervious surfaces (such as concrete and asphalt) around your home, you can also help reduce localized flooding. With increasingly severe storms, stormwater runoff can overwhelm municipal systems. This is why many municipalities limit the amount of impervious surface a new building or new development can have. 

Permeable Pavers Are Beautiful and Durable

And today’s permeable pavers are beautiful. They look just like natural stone, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, textures, and colors, just like traditional pavers. Some of our favorite permeable patio pavers and permeable driveway pavers come from the big-name manufacturers who produce pavers for patios, retaining walls, and more. They include:

• Techo-Bloc
• Belgard
• EP Henry

Permeable pavers are also very durable, and won’t crack as a concrete or asphalt driveway will. They’re more tolerant of Maryland’s freeze-thaw cycle because of the spacing between the pavers. If an individual paver does crack. It can be lifted out and replaced. They also don’t need a seal coat every couple of years. 

Permeable Pavers Cost More

The one downside of these pavers is they will cost more to install than asphalt. This is because the materials may be more expensive than asphalt, and the installation takes more planning and preparation. The cost could be comparable to installing standard pavers, depending on the materials you choose. 

Check with Your Municipality

If you’re considering expanding your driveway, patio, or walkways, be sure to check with your municipality to see if they have restrictions on increasing the impervious surfaces around your home. You may also want to ask if there is an incentive to use permeable pavers for your project. 

We know that the City of Rockville, for instance, and Montgomery County and Prince Georges County offer rebates, and other municipalities could follow suit.

Make It Exceptional. Make It Woodfield.

If you’re considering upgrading your patio, walkways, and driveway, we can help. We design and custom hardscape and masonry elements our clients love. At Woodfield, we believe you deserve an exceptional experience when it comes to enhancing your outdoor living spaces. 

We work with discerning homeowners throughout the Baltimore area, including Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Cecil County, Harford County, and Howard County. Schedule a call today.