Permeable Block Paving - maintenance/longevity?

[dan_l]

Hi,

I am looking at getting my driveway block paved. Permeable block paving has been suggested but other than the environment benefity I can't find much info about how it compares against normaly block paving when it comes to maintenance/weeds growing through gaps and is it expected to last as long as normal block paving.

Has anybody got any views on it?

Thanks,
Dan

 

[jeds]

Weeds growing up through isn't normally the problem in a properly prepared sub-base. What happens is seeds are dropped into the joints and grow down from the top. Silver sand will help or a jointing solution - i.e. to harden the joints - will help even more. But given enough time and left alone little weeds will eventually grow anywhere.

 

[^woody^]

Permeable block paving is just block paving with gaps

Just pave it and angle it to a gully, or channel or gap/gravel soakaway, and is drains into the ground and everyone is happy

 

[dan_l]

Thanks for the replies. I understand that permeable block paving is a bit more expensive but ignoring the cost, visually do they both look the same when laid and with the gaps being filled with what looks like small stones instead of the normal sand, are weeds/seeds more likely to embedd in the gaps between the permeable paving?

Thanks,
Dan