Permeable pavers vs regular pavers for rainwater runoff
By My Yard Editorial Team · 7/28/2026
The Quick Answer
Permeable pavers infiltrate 3–10 inches of rain per hour through open joints into a deep stone reservoir. They cost 25–40% more but can satisfy stormwater codes and cut runoff dramatically.
The Witty Breakdown
The pavers aren't porous — the joints are. The real system is the 12–18 inch open-graded stone base underneath.
They require different maintenance: joints must be vacuumed or blown out yearly or they silt up and stop working.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Verify soil infiltration rate before designing — heavy clay may need an underdrain.
- 2
Use open-graded clean stone base (no fines) at the depth your designer specifies.
- 3
Fill joints with clean chip stone, not polymeric sand.
- 4
Blow or vacuum joints annually to keep them permeable.
Pro-Tip / Do Not Do This
Don't sweep regular sand or dirt into permeable joints to 'tidy it up.' You just paid extra for a normal patio.
Was this helpful?
Related Guides
Community Comments
No comments yet — be the first neighbor to weigh in.