1.What are permeable pavers?

Premier Hydropavers® are state of the art ceramic permeable flag and segmental pavers. This technologically advanced material allows water to infiltrate through the paver system, making it a flexible type of paving that is strong, durable and safe.

The diversity of colours and the surface texture enables architects, engineers and landscapers to design pavements embracing scale and aesthetics.

2.Do permeable pavers clog?

Permeable pavers have been used for decades across the world, specifically in Europe (particularly in Germany) and the United States.

Provided that a regular maintenance plan is put in place and the system is designed and manufactured correctly, clogging should not occur.

The latest technology has created a ceramic permeable paver where any water that comes into contact with the paver, seeps through the body of the paver, rather than through the joints of the paving system.

These high-tech pavers are extremely strong, with a breaking load in excess of 10kN and are suitable for most commercial applications, including minor roadways. It comes as no surprise that permeable have been used around the world by many local councils for such projects; the benefits of reduced run-off, reduced discharge, improved water quality and improvements to urban heat island effect are a necessary part of sustainability planning.

3.What are permeable pavers made from?

Premier Hydropavers® are made from crushed recycled ceramic tiles that have been pressed into moulds at 1,600 tonnes and fired at 1,200°C. Heating the material to below its melting point assists to form strong bonds between the individual grains, creating tiny pores. As such, the paver is able to absorb water, for later transpiration into the atmosphere, as well as allowing water to pass through. The paver has a 25% porosity.

4.What are the benefits of permeable pavers?

  • High permeability: these pavers are capable of infiltrating rainfall at a rate of up to 60mm per hour.
  • Strong water absorbing capacity: the pavers absorb water like a sponge. If less than 5mm of rain falls in a day, the water is held in the paver and evaporates once the rain is over.
  • Evapotranspiration: as well as high infiltration rates, these pavers capture and store water. This water is subsequently released into the atmosphere to create a cooling effect. This helps to mitigate the phenomenon known as the “urban heat island effect”.
  • Noise reduction: The porous structure of the pavers absorbs noise.
  • Colour range: The pavers are available in a wide range of colours. Being a ceramic product that has been baked at 1200°C, the pavers will maintain their colour for years.
  • Strength and durability: These pavers have a >50 MPa compressive strength and a breaking load strength of 10 to 20 kN. It should be noted that breaking load, not compressive strength, is the strength criteria for assessing the performance of pavers.
  • Slip resistance: The pavers exhibit a nonslip surface that has a British Pendulum Number (BPN) of a minimum of 65.

5.Where can permeable pavers be used?

Premier Hydropavers® are suitable to be used in a wide range of applications, including:

  • Driveways
  • Patios
  • Pathways in parks
  • Pedestrian areas
  • Rooftop gardens
  • Carparks

6.What patterns can permeable pavers be set in?

The pattern of the paving needs to be decided based on what the paving is being used for. However, the three main categories of patterns are:

  • Herringbone: 45° and 90° herringbone
  • Parquetry: basket weave, half basket weave
  • Stretcher: stack bond and stretcher bond

7.Do I need to undertake site testing before laying permeable pavers?

It is vital that a thorough site investigation be completed before permeable are laid. During this site investigation, an infiltration test will need to be performed to determine the type of soil prevalent at the site, as well as its drainage characteristics. This infiltration test can be carried out by using a two ring apparatus or by conducting a visual and tactile assessment of the soil. There are three types of Permeable Paving Systems:

  • System A: Total infiltration
  • System B: Partial infiltration
  • System C: Water harvesting

If infiltration rates are too low, then the site may require the installation of slotted pipes to remove excess water. In situations where there is a significant fall on the area, the excavation may need to be stepped to assist in the infiltration of the water into the sub‐grade.

8.Will traffic loads affect the type of permeable pavers that I can install?

The traffic loads, particularly the type and frequency of traffic, of the area where the permeable pavers are to be laid need to be determined. The two main types of traffic loads are Vehicular and Pedestrian. Within the category of Vehicular, traffic needs to be categorised as heavy, medium or light. For heavy and medium traffic loads it is recommended that engineering specifications be obtained. For light vehicular traffic and pedestrian areas the base thickness can be easily determined.

9.What type of maintenance is involved with permeable pavers?

Permeable paving can be laid and then used immediately. Cleaning using high-pressure cleaners is not recommended for the first three months. During this time clean only with a broom or a leaf blower.

The paving needs to be inspected at a minimum of twice a year for defects and spillages. Regular sweeping and washing reduces the effect of weeds, dirt and grime and maintains the attractiveness of the paving.

Due to the nature of permeable paving systems, it is highly recommended that only environmentally safe chemicals be used. The most common use of chemicals on paved areas is the spraying of weeds. Weeds on permeable paving systems should be hand removed or removed using steam.

If you have any other questions regarding your permeable paving, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team:

Phone: 03 9248 2400
Location: 287 Bay Road Cheltenham VIC 3192.
Email: sales@premierpavers.com.au