Ferguson’s innovative solutions for sustainable, code-compliant, and cost-effective permeable surfaces.
“I need to build a fire lane, add auxiliary parking, and minimize impervious cover—but I want to avoid chemical stabilization and reduce base material costs.” — Contractor
Whether you’re building to meet fire access code, expanding your site’s parking footprint, or designing for LEED or local stormwater requirements, pervious paving is often the best way to satisfy performance and permitting demands. Below are the most common challenges—and Ferguson’s recommended solutions.
Key Challenges & Ferguson’s Solutions
Challenge 1: Constructing a Fire Lane
Fire lanes must meet strict loading standards and remain accessible in all conditions. But in many jurisdictions, using permeable paving for fire access routes is also a strategy to reduce impervious area or meet stormwater mandates.
Available Solutions:
- PowerBLOCK Permeable Pavers: An open-joint concrete paver system offering high infiltration rates and low maintenance, ideal for emergency access routes.
- STORMCRETE® Precast Porous Concrete: Modular, precast concrete slabs that are ready for immediate use upon delivery, providing a durable and permeable surface suitable for fire lanes.
- ECORASTER® and Bloxx®: Snap-together permeable pavers made from recycled materials, offering high load-bearing capacity and quick installation, suitable for fire lanes.
Challenge 2: Developing Auxiliary Parking Areas
Expanding a parking lot with traditional asphalt or concrete increases impervious area, often triggering stormwater detention, mitigation fees, or permitting delays. Pervious systems help avoid that.
Available Solutions:
- PowerBLOCK Permeable Pavers: Provides a stable, permeable surface that reduces runoff and supports vehicular loads.
- STORMCRETE® Precast Porous Concrete: Offers a ready-to-use, durable solution that manages stormwater effectively in parking areas.
- ECORASTER® and Bloxx®: Ideal for parking applications, these pavers allow for grass or gravel infill, blending aesthetics with functionality.
Challenge 3: Minimizing Impervious Cover
Many municipalities restrict the percentage of a site that can be covered in impervious surface, which can limit building area or trigger costly mitigation. Reducing impervious cover also supports sustainable development goals and qualifies for stormwater credits or LEED points.
Available Solutions:
- PowerBLOCK Permeable Pavers: Facilitates high infiltration rates, aiding in the reduction of impervious cover.
- STORMCRETE® Precast Porous Concrete: Its porous nature helps in decreasing impervious areas on a site.
- ECORASTER® and Bloxx®: These systems support green infrastructure goals by allowing water to permeate through the surface.
- Porous Pave: A pour-in-place permeable paving material made from recycled rubber and aggregate, offering flexibility and high porosity, suitable for various applications aiming to reduce impervious cover.
Can these solutions also reduce base material costs?
Yes. By enhancing load distribution and structural integrity, these permeable paving solutions can reduce the required thickness of base materials, leading to cost savings in materials and labor.
What are the environmental benefits?
- Stormwater Management: Improved infiltration reduces runoff and the burden on drainage systems.
- Sustainability: Use of recycled materials and reduction in impervious surfaces contribute to sustainable development goals.
- Compliance: Helps in meeting local regulations regarding stormwater management and impervious cover limits.
Where can I get assistance with selecting the right permeable paving solution?
Ferguson’s experts are available to help you choose the most suitable permeable paving products for your specific project needs.
Contact your local Ferguson Waterworks expert to discuss your project requirements.
