Permeable Driveway Specialists Buckley
If you’re planning a new driveway installation in Buckley, you may have come across the term “permeable” and wondered what it means. Simply put, it describes a driveway surface that enables water to drain through it rather than flowing off onto the road or adjacent properties.
Why It Matters
Planning regulations in England and Wales were revised in 2008. When installing a new driveway larger than 5 square metres using conventional impermeable materials such as traditional concrete or tarmac, planning permission is necessary if the area previously had a permeable surface like grass or soil. This regulation helps prevent local drainage systems from being overwhelmed with excessive surface water runoff.
Apart from complying with official requirements, there are practical benefits to consider. Permeable driveways help prevent:
- Puddles and standing water building up on your driveway
- Water runoff flooding your garden or the road
- Overwhelmed drains during heavy rainfall
- Ice formation during winter (water drains through instead of pooling on the surface)
Available Permeable Options For Buckley
Block Paving with Drainage
This is tandard block paving with wider joints filled with sand or gravel, combined with a sub-base designed to allow water to drain through. It looks like a traditional block paved driveway whilst operating as a permeable surface. Available in multiple colours and patterns.
Permeable Block Paving
This block paving type incorporates wider gaps integrated into the design, allowing water to pass through efficiently. It is always laid on fine stone grit with a permeable base constructed beneath to enable water to drain down quickly and safely.
Gravel or Shingle
The most basic permeable option. Water drains directly through the stones into the ground below. It requires a suitable base, proper edging to keep it in place, and occasional top-ups, but it’s affordable and highly effective.
Resin Bound Surfacing
A mixture of aggregate and resin that creates a smooth, permeable surface. The gaps between the stones allow water to pass through. It’s low maintenance, doesn’t shift or spread like gravel, and comes in various colours. The resin is applied on top of an open-textured tarmac or concrete base, allowing water to drain down safely and efficiently.
Grass Reinforcement Grids
Concrete or plastic grids that support the weight of vehicles while allowing grass to grow through. Perfect if you want a green driveway, though it requires mowing and isn’t ideal for properties with heavy daily use.
Permeable Tarmac
Specialist porous asphalt that looks like standard tarmac but includes gaps designed to let water through. Less common for residential driveways, but it remains an option and is often used as a base for resin surfacing.
If you are thinking about having a permeable driveway installed, we would be happy to help. You can call our team today on 01352 382015 to arrange a free estimate in Buckley for installing a permeable driveway.
