Although traditional concrete is a durable building material for patios, driveways and roads, like other Impermeable materials used in constructions, it prevents rain, snow and other surface water from seeping into the ground, which contributes to the decreasing level of groundwater.

Runoff water may cause floods and carry toxic pollutants into streams. Depletion of ground water may endanger certain plants and trees.

Fortunately, alternative permeable materials are available which permit water to drain into the ground.

A couple of the options are permeable pavers for patios, walkways or driveways, and open-cell concrete blocks for driveways or parking area.

Permeable pavers are solid, but allow water to drain if spaced properly. Open-cell concrete blocks are open enough in their structure to allow water through, while still strong enough to support vehicles. Spaces can be filled with gravel, sand or grass.

Another option is pervious concrete. It contains a lot of open spaces for water to flow through.

Two other choices are Gravelpave2 and Grasspave2 for parking area and driveways. They have a ring-and-grid structure resting on a porous base of sand or gravel for drainage.

Next time you build a driveway, a parking space or a patio, choose one of these eco-friendly products.

Useful websites: www.perviouspavement.org   www.paversearch.com   www.invisiblestructures.com 

For the original article on the subject, click here.