Frequently Asked Questions

Are you insured?

Yes. Our business is trading as Evolution Surfaces Pty Ltd and our ABN is 90 082 517 500.

How does permeable paving work?

At first glance, permeable pavements look like ordinary brick pavements, but the pavers really form a surface layer of open cells over a layer of gravel. This design alone allows water to percolate through, instead of running off and carrying sediments down drainage systems.

Is a permeable paving system better than asphalt or concrete?

Permeable pavements have important advantages over traditional pavements. Because they reduce runoff, they also reduce flooding risk, minimise soil erosion, and delay clogging of drainage systems in case of heavy downpours or storms.

By eliminating or reducing runoff, permeable pavements help minimise pollution of natural waterways. In addition, the permeation of rainwater through the system and into the soil allows for natural filtration of unnatural contaminants, thereby replenishing aquifers safely.

Because water just seeps through the spaces between the pavers, puddles don’t form during a heavy rain. Puddles are not just unsightly, they pose walking and driving hazards. Standing water can be troublesome to get rid of on concrete surfaces.

Another understated benefit of permeable paving over concrete or asphalt is it doesn’t absorb as much heat as the latter. Thus, you reduce the heat island effect.

How can I save money with permeable pavements?

Permeable pavement installation is much less expensive than concrete pavement installation. What about asphalt? One may argue that asphalt is cheaper than permeable or porous pavers, but asphalt pavements require costly drainage systems. Also, asphalt notoriously lacks in durability – it cracks easily.

Asphalt pavements tend to develop potholes after a few years, thus requiring regular repairs. Even concrete pavements aren’t crack-proof and require resealing from time to time. Not to mention, the drainage systems that come with concrete pavements eventually get clogged. Periodic clearing of clogged drains adds to the maintenance costs of keeping concrete or asphalt surfaces.

On the other hand, a permeable pavement system is less expensive to install. The materials are less expensive as well. Without extensive drainage systems, construction and maintenance costs overall are lower.

Can permeable pavers handle heavy loads?

Some commercial establishments require paving that can handle heavy loads, but some are worried that permeable materials aren’t suited to handle such loads. Hence, asphalt or concrete has been used for heavy-duty pavement. Then again, impermeable pavements have been a major environmental concern. For a while, builders and contractors considered permeable paving as a less desirable option for installing heavy-duty pavement. However in recent years, that opinion has changed.

A well-designed permeable pavement system is just as strong, if not stronger, than asphalt or concrete and, thus, can support heavy machinery or large vehicles. Interlocked pavers resist forces by dispersing them throughout the entire surface. The key is designing the pavement system properly, using quality materials, and installing the permeable pavement the right way.

Are permeable pavements durable?

Contrary to the common myth, permeable paving is durable. With the right installation procedure, it even lasts longer than asphalt or concrete.

Because the surface layer has fill materials with interlocking grids, the pavers are able to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking. In addition, a permeable pavement system does not require as much maintenance as asphalt or concrete pavements do.

Do permeable pavements get clogged?

Permeable pavements require maintenance to remain in good shape. Regular sweeping is a must-do. So is vacuuming every three months to prevent clogging. Proper maintenance should prevent clogs that delay or hamper drainage of rainwater. Nonetheless, a good PPS system design and installation will prevent clogging.

How do I get a free quote?

Easy – just call us or fill in the form and we’ll contact you as soon as we can. If we’re on a job or unable to answer for any other reason, please leave a message and we’ll get back to you asap.