Permeable pavers are an excellent hardscaping option for everything from patios to driveways. They are growing in popularity, thanks to their many benefits, including their impact on the environment, their easy maintenance, and their affordability. If you are thinking of upgrading your hardscaping or installing a new project, you should talk to the designers at Triad Associates about how permeable pavers might be a good option. Additionally, understanding the permeable paver cost can help you plan your budget more effectively.
What are Permeable Pavers?
Permeable pavers are those that allow for greater passage of water through the hardscaping surface. These may be pavers that have a porous surface, or they may be pavers that are designed to have gaps in or between them, allowing for the free flow of water below them. These pavers can also be referred to as porous or pervious pavers. These pavers come in all types of sizes, shapes, and colors, giving you flexibility in your design choices.
Permeable Paver Cost
Determining the cost of a project involving permeable pavers is going to require considering multiple factors. However, one of the most important factors is the type of paver you choose. Exact costs will depend on your location and the company supplying the pavers, but some general guidelines based on paver type can help you with your planning. Researching the permeable paver cost ahead of time can provide a clearer picture of your potential expenses.
Types of Permeable Pavers
Many types of permeable pavers are available, giving you plenty of options for planning the perfect design. In addition to the costs of these pavers, you’ll need to talk through their benefits and drawbacks for these pavers with your hardscape designer.
Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavers (PICP)
Cost: $7-12 per square foot
Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavers (PICP) are concrete pavers that are designed with a special edge to lock together in a grid that is filled by small stones and sand. The pavers are installed over a base of crushed stone, allowing for the free flow of water into the ground below. The paver system remains solid in place, while water is able to drain freely.
Plastic Grid Pavers
Cost: $3-9 per square foot
Plastic grid pavers don’t look like typical pavers. Instead, they are created with a rigid plastic grid that is then filled with crushed stone or gravel or that is left open to allow grass to grow through. The grid system helps to keep the land or stone in place for the hardscaped area, while also leaving it with a natural look.
Porous Concrete Pavers
Cost: $8-15 per square foot
Porous concrete pavers are designed so that water can pass through the material itself. Unlike other paver systems that can also allow soil or small material to pass through, these pavers only allow for the passage of water.
Grass Pavers
Cost: $3-9 per square foot
Grass pavers can be either plastic grid pavers or concrete grid pavers. These pavers create a grid (out of either plastic or concrete) that leaves a large space in between for grass to grow. These allow for a balanced, natural look for your project.
Permeable Paver Maintenance Costs
The cost of maintaining permeable pavers is quite low, which is one of the reasons they are such popular options for hardscaping. The cost of maintenance can be as little as 5 cents per square foot or as high as 37 cents per square foot, depending on the type of materials. PICP and concrete pavers will have a higher maintenance cost than grid or grass pavers. Considering the permeable paver cost for both installation and maintenance can help you make an informed decision for your project.
Factors Affecting Permeable Paver Cost
Multiple factors will determine the ultimate cost of your paver project. When you work with your hardscaping designer, you’ll need to talk through each of these factors to help you make the right choices to keep your project on budget. The hardscaping designers at Triad Associates can help you make the right choices to get the design and solutions you want for your paver project, while also keeping it affordable in the short and long term.
Materials
The paver material will have a big impact on the cost of your project. Materials like natural stone and concrete will cost more than gravel or plastic. There will even be variation among the different types of stone you can choose. Pricing is determined by the square footage, so even if you are looking at a relatively affordable material, you must keep in mind that costs will grow exponentially with larger projects. In addition, if you are incorporating a special design that requires unique cuts or additional materials, that will also impact the cost of your project. For example, plastic grid costs one price, but the gravel that you choose to fill it costs another. Talk through all potential costs of permeable pavers with your hardscape designer.
Labor
Materials are just one cost for your project. You will also need to pay a professional contractor to install them. Don’t just hire a contractor that gives you the lowest price. You get what you pay for when it comes to hardscaping services! Hire a professional contractor that has an established reputation and has the right experience and training, like the contractors at Triad Associates.
Remember that other labor costs associated with your project can include additional drainage measures installed and how much prep is required for the land.
Maintenance
Finally, you’ll need to think through the long-term maintenance costs of your pavers. Your hardscaping designer can help you understand the maintenance needs and their associated costs, such as cleaning, repairing, or replacing the pavers or associated items. Factoring in maintenance in the total permeable paver cost will give you a comprehensive view of your investment over time.
Hire Triad Associates’ Paver Experts Today
The hardscaping professionals at Triad Associates are ready to bring your paver project to life. Whether you are considering installing a patio or you want a walkway or driveway, our paver experts can create a beautiful design with long-lasting results. Our hardscaping experts have been installing paver projects throughout the Haverhill area for decades, and they are known for their exceptional workmanship and professional service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin designing your new hardscape. Our designers will help you find affordable solutions that will create the look you want to elevate your property.
