Why Local Councils should use Permeable Concrete for Footpaths
Replenshing
The use of permeable surfaces is an important environmental consideration. Where traditional pavers and pavements contribute to run-off and wasted water, pervious solutions allow water to be returned to where it is needed most - the water table beneath the ground. At Permeable Surfaces Australia, we want to lay the groundwork for a better approach to water management through the use of porous surfaces.
We advocate for the best in permeable surfaces, porous surfaces, and pervious surfaces. To achieve this goal, we work with:
● Manufacturers looking to deliver their products to a wider variety consumers
● Council workers looking permeable asphalt solutions for use local projects
● Builders seeking permeable pavement solutions to meet council requirements
● Homeowners looking for permeable paving slabs and other pervious paving systems
A way of integrating the water cycle with the built environment for good planning.
Adbri Masonory provides solutions that tackle important water sensitive urban design issues.
Permeable surfaces, including permeable pavements, allow water to filter through to the ground below. This ensures that more water makes its way to the soil to aid in the growth and development of trees.
Impermeable surfaces - like pavements, driveways, and patios - catch rainfall and direct it to stormwater drains, which then flow to creeks and rivers. Stormwater often contains toxic runoff like grease, petrol, and oil. Permeable pavement also prevents stormwater from entering water systems without filtration.
There are a range of benefits for the use of permeable surfaces in domestic, commercial, and governmental settings.
1. Permeable surfaces reduce the amount of stormwater flowing to creek and rivers, which often does so without any filtration.
2. Pervious surfaces can also direct water to soil, which can aid in the growth and maturation of trees.
3. In the situation of heavy rain, porous surfaces catch and deliver rain straight into the ground, reducing the risk of flooding.
4. Permeable pavement can also work to absorb more heat that traditional tarmac, reducing the heat island effect and promoting less reliance on energy.
At Permeable Surfaces Australia, we are here to bring you information on the best porous, permeable, and pervious surfaces. These terms are often used interchangeably in the industry.
It is important to understand that each of these solutions have different characteristics, including physical and aesthetic qualities. In a nutshell, here’s an overview of each of these terms and how they are applied.
Porous surfaces, like porous pavers, are utilised in a grid system, and filled with porous materials like sand, dirt, or gravel. This structure distributes water over a wider surface area. The top surface of a porous system can even support grass.
Permeable pavers are usually made from concrete and brick, with separated impermeable joints filled with crushed filler, which works to filter water. Used in walkways, roads, and parking lots, permeable pavers direct water through the system to where it has been designated.
Pervious surfaces allow water to collect on the surface and to gradually work its way through to the ground below. This ground has plenty of space to breathe, and allows roots and soil microbes to interact freely.
Impervious pavers do not hold or absorb any water, and simply let unfiltered water run directly into stormwater drains, often full of pollutants. Other surfaces, like impervious driveways, also do not allow the ground and roots below to breathe the way a mini greenhouse does.