Green Patios, Walkways & Driveways of Porous Pavement and Pervious Concrete
(Page 3 of 4)
April/May 2009
By Dan Chiras
Grasspave2 has a surprisingly high load-bearing capacity (it can even support firetrucks!) — and protects the root systems of grass from compaction, which would normally kill the plants.
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This product is used for main driveways, but it is not recommended for long-term (more than a week or so) parking. It works well for rarely used driveways that lead to backyard storage sheds, workshops, or recreational vehicles and boats stored in backyards. It has been used successfully for large parking lots that are used infrequently, such as near sports arenas.
Installation
Installation of all porous paving is straightforward and can be done by relative novices. However, professionals will often do a better job and complete the work faster because they have the right tools and equipment. Professionally installed driveways, walkways, patios and other structures also may last longer, making them worth the extra initial investment.
All of the products described here require excavation by hand or machine. They all start with a 6- to 8-inch-deep bed of sand or gravel, carefully leveled. If you install a system of pervious pavers or the Grasspave2 or Gravelpave2 yourself, be sure to read and study the manufacturer’s specifications, and follow the instructions carefully. When in doubt, call in an expert for consultation, or call the manufacturer and talk to its customer installation support staff.
Bear in mind that you also may need to obtain a building permit, so check with the local building department before you purchase materials.
What Will it Cost?
Pervious paving products cost more than standard paving materials such as asphalt and concrete, but installing patios, paths and driveways can add value to your home. Permeable paving is a green feature, and pavers can give your home extra curb appeal.
Cost Estimate: Installation of a concrete paver walkway 30 feet long by 3 feet wide. Includes a 6-inch gravel base, 4-inch sand base, hand compaction and grading, and concrete patio blocks.
Cost for materials only: $460
Contractor’s total, including materials, labor and markup: $1,050
Paving materials, per square foot installed:
Asphalt, 2 1⁄2 inches thick: $1.45
Brick, 1 1⁄2 inches thick: $11.00
Concrete, 6 inches thick: $5.85
Concrete pavers: $11.50
Crushed stone, 1 inch thick: $0.70
Grasspave2: $8.00
Gravelpave2: $8.00
Gravel, 6 inches thick: $0.85
Paving stones, 2 inches thick: $26.50
Costs are national averages and do not include sales tax.
