What is Permeable Concrete, and When Would You Use It?

Concrete is a core material within the construction industry. However, its uses have diversified thanks to innovations in science and technology. Permeable concrete is one of the latest innovations. The biggest selling point of permeable concrete is how it retains its structural integrity while allowing water to pass through it. Importantly, this mitigates flooding – a major drawback of traditional concrete, which pools water, creating flash floods in heavily concreted environments, such as urban areas. Drainage and flood prevention has catapulted permeable concrete into the limelight, nonetheless it's still regarded by some as the underdog of the concrete family.

Here we answer the key questions, "what is permeable concrete?" and "when would I use it?"

At 2 Brothers Concrete & Pumping, our lives have been filled with concrete. With a combined 25 years in the industry, we know everything there is to know about all the different concrete available and how and when they should be used. Recently adding permeable concrete production, delivery and pumping to our list of services, we are here to explain what this material is and when you might need to use it.

Take a few minutes to read our blog to learn all about it.

What is Permeable Concrete?

Permeable concrete has a few different names within the construction industry, often referred to as no-fines concrete, pervious or porous concrete.

Its defining characteristic is that it allows water to run through it, meaning water doesn't pool or flood on the surface. Hence the name "permeable concrete".  

How, you might ask? Well, concrete is typically made from aggregate, cement and water. Permeable concrete is no different. However, the aggregate used is larger. This creates gaps within the structure of the concrete as it cures, which is where the water can filter through.

Permeable concrete is just as strong as traditional concrete. This material doesn't shrink as much as traditional concrete, meaning there is less risk of cracking and structural weakness.

On top of this, it is more malleable, which helps to spread and absorb weight when load-bearing.

How Does Permeable Concrete Work?

The workings of permeable concrete are fairly simple once you understand the construction of it.

As we mentioned above, permeable concrete is made from larger aggregates. In addition to this, the usage of fine aggregates is reduced, meaning that gaps are created as it is poured and cured.

These gaps provide somewhere for the water to go as it lands on the ground. So, the water seeps through the surface, through the permeable sub-base and into the ground rather than pooling on the surface and flooding areas.

Why doesn't traditional concrete do this, you might ask? Traditional concrete is usually made from smaller aggregate stones, which can be compressed together more. This means there's no space for water to pass through its tightly packed composition.

Additionally, traditional concrete will use some finer materials too, when compacted, this will make sure any gaps are filled, creating an impenetrable layer.

It is worth noting that permeable concrete has more than one function. It is an environmentally friendly material, providing several other benefits to the area in which it is used.

Allowing water to pass through the surface reduces the urban heat island effect as the water within the surface cools the ground temperatures.

Plus, the material traps any pollutants in the water as it filters through, meaning that relatively clean and pure water reaches the soil underneath.

When Would You Use Permeable Concrete?

Permeable concrete has many uses, and it is constantly growing.

Within residential projects, permeable concrete is often used for:

• Driveways
• Paths
• Patios

In commercial settings, this concrete type is likely to be used for:

• Car parks
• Pedestrian areas
• Industrial sites

Public infrastructure is often turning to permeable concrete for:

• Pavements
• Cycle paths
• Public parks

Wherever the surface is exposed to rainfall and surface pooling or flooding wants to be minimised, permeable concrete is the ideal material.

Of course, it is also used when there will be heavy foot traffic or load bearing as this material is strong and durable.

Public sectors are embracing this concrete type because it meets new environmental regulations while also meeting health and safety compliance needs.

Want To Learn More?

Hopefully, by now, you have an answer to your question, "What is permeable concrete?"  and understand how it works. Using this knowledge, you can usually work out when you might use this material.

Predominantly, it is used for outdoor car parks, driveways or paths where local authorities or private construction companies want to reduce water pooling on the surface.

If you would like to know more about permeable concrete, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We are experts in all things concrete and can help you work out whether you should be using permeable concrete or traditional concrete.

Once we have figured out which type of concrete you need, we can offer you comprehensive services with our ready-mix concrete production and pump hire. You will be able to rely on one contractor for all your concrete needs.

Call us today on 01489 552737 to discuss your project and discover more about permeable concrete, or complete our online contact form with your query, and we will get back to you.