Permeable concrete
Concrete that lets rainwater drain through
Also called pervious or porous concrete, permeable concrete is made with open gaps between the stones, so surface water drains down through it instead of running off into the road or the drains.
How it works
- 1
Rain lands on the surface
Rather than running across the surface, it passes into the gaps between the stones.
- 2
It passes through the concrete
The open texture lets water move down through the slab into the sub-base beneath.
- 3
It soaks away or drains
The water soaks into the ground or is carried away by drainage built into the design.
Where it’s used
Surfaces that would otherwise shed water
Why use it
Less runoff, less pressure on the drains
- Stormwater
- Reduces surface runoff, which eases the load on drainage systems and can help reduce local flooding.
- Water quality
- Water filtering down through the layers can leave some pollutants behind before it reaches drains and waterways.
- Groundwater
- Where the ground allows, water soaks back in rather than leaving the site.
Paving a front garden? In England, covering more than 5 m² of a front garden with a surface that doesn’t let water through, or drain to a permeable area, usually needs planning permission. A permeable surface can avoid that. Check with your local planning authority for your property.
Permeable surfaces depend on the right sub-base and ground conditions, so the build-up should come from your designer or installer.
Ask about permeable concrete
Tell us what you’re surfacing, the area and the postcode, and we’ll talk through the mix.