LANDSCAPING SERVICES
2003 2003 2020
2020
CONCRETE BLOCK PERMEABLE PAVING FOR LIFE AND FOR TREES
Recent trials of various , older concrete block permeable paving projects following long-term use back-up previous research , endorse current minimal maintenance recommendations and debunk misconceptions about clogging up of joints . This research has important implications for the whole life costs of permeable paving generally . One of the projects involved also reveals major benefits of permeable paving opening up new opportunities for green infrastructure , particularly trees .
Concrete Block Permeable Paving ( CBPP ) technology has proven itself over successful use around the world since the mid-1980s . Two decades of experience in the UK has demonstrated its longterm performance with minimal , if any , maintenance . But one of the most persistent misconceptions about CBPP technology , impeding its uptake and adoption , is that – without maintenance – the joints quickly become clogged with debris and , within a short time , become impermeable preventing water from draining into the paving .
Permeable Paving in Practice In fact , over time detritus and silt collects in the upper part of CBPP joint material between blocks , where a surface ‘ crust ’ ( around 5-10mm deep ) is formed , protecting the laying course and sub-base material but still allowing infiltration . Also , the performance of CBPP is not significantly affected by moss or weeds in the joints , or by leaves collecting on the surface . Even where localised blockages do occur , in a storm event excess water simply flows to more permeable , adjacent areas .
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