Permeable vs Traditional Driveways
As environmental concerns and stormwater regulations increase, permeable driveways offer an eco-friendly alternative. Compare options to make the right choice.
What Is a Permeable Driveway?
A permeable driveway allows water to pass through its surface rather than running off into storm drains. Rain filters through voids in the material, recharges groundwater, and reduces runoff by 70-90%.
Types include permeable pavers, pervious concrete, porous asphalt, grass pavers, and gravel with grid systems. Each offers different costs, appearances, and maintenance requirements.
Many municipalities offer stormwater fee reductions, tax credits, and rebates for permeable surfaces. Check with your local stormwater department for available programs.
How Permeable Driveways Work
Water passes through specially designed materials with void spaces: rain filters through the surface, aggregates, and into the soil. Contaminants are trapped in the base. This mimics natural ground conditions.
Types
- Permeable pavers: Gaps filled with aggregate; $15-30/sq ft
- Pervious concrete: Special mix, 15-25% voids; $12-20/sq ft
- Porous asphalt: Similar to standard; $10-18/sq ft
- Grass pavers: 40-60% open for grass; $8-15/sq ft
- Gravel with grid: Lowest cost; $6-12/sq ft
Cost Comparison
Permeable driveways cost approximately 20-100% more than traditional options. Standard asphalt: $3-7/sq ft; porous asphalt: $10-18/sq ft. Stormwater credits and incentives can offset the difference.
Environmental Benefits
- Reduces runoff volume 70-90%
- Filters pollutants before waterways
- Recharges groundwater
- Reduces heat island effect
- May qualify for environmental incentives
Regulations & Incentives
Some areas require stormwater management or limit impervious surfaces. Permeable may meet these requirements. Check local stormwater department for fee reductions, tax credits, and rebates.
Best For
Choose permeable when: Local regulations require stormwater management, you want to minimize environmental impact, property has drainage issues, or incentives offset costs.
Choose traditional when: Budget is primary concern, heavy vehicle traffic expected, maintenance time limited, or experienced permeable contractors aren't available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Worth it if you value environmental benefits, need to meet stormwater requirements, or qualify for incentives. Typically 20-100% more than traditional but provides long-term environmental and regulatory benefits.
Approximately 20-100% more. Standard asphalt $3-7/sq ft vs porous asphalt $10-18/sq ft. Stormwater credits and incentives can offset some difference.
Yes. Annual vacuuming to prevent clogging, joint replenishment every few years, occasional surface restoration. Neglect causes loss of permeability.
DIY possible for simpler systems (gravel with grid). Professional installation strongly recommended for pervious concrete, porous asphalt, and permeable pavers. Base preparation is critical.
Annual vacuuming helps prevent clogging. If clogged, professional cleaning or surface restoration may be needed. Prevention through regular maintenance is key.
Yes, but snow clearing can be harder. Some systems not suitable for heavy plows. Discuss with contractor for cold-climate options.
Gravel with grid systems at $6-12/sq ft. Grass pavers $8-15/sq ft. Porous asphalt $10-18/sq ft. Permeable pavers are highest at $15-30/sq ft.
Usually requires removal and new installation. Permeable systems need deep aggregate bases. Overlay on existing impervious surface won't provide permeability.