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After reading all the articles on the subject, it doesn't seem like anyone has really come out and said 'permeable pavement is GREAT!'. In fact, it seem rather disappointing to me.
As AGLA mentions, a lot of factors involved. From what I've read, they aren't very good of run-off when it comes to heavy storms. As rainfall rates increase, run-off increases, which to me, is the time you want the run-off collected the most.
Also, there seems to be HUGE issues with how long the surface stays permeable. How long does it take dirt, oil, tar, garbage, etc. to build up and block the pores???? From my own experience with how long junk builds up in pavers, I would say not long.....which brings me to the point of maintenance. How much work is going to be needed to clean the stone in the holes? Every couple of years you have to power wash/remove the the dirty stone??? I have seen no real information on this, and I think there is a reason for it.
The last factor is simple, and that is overall appearance. I've seen a lot diff't systems, but in the end, I think they all look pretty ugly and most of all, are MESSY. It seems like the 3/8" stone or whatever is used tends to migrate all over the surface of the pavement. That may be a hard sell.
I love the idea, and think there are applications, but somehow think this is more of a environmental 'feel good' thing more than anything else.
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