We have removed four layers of asphalt on this Rye, NY property to enable us to install a washed gravel base to construct a porous asphalt driveway which will allow rainfall/stormwater to infiltrate the ground without runoff. This satisfies the Sustainable Site Initiative for Green Infrastructure. After carting and removal of all base material to Queen City Recycling in New Rochelle, we prepped for installation one day and installed the next.
In truth this is an extremely messy business because of the sticky and tacky properties of the binder coat used to adhere the gravel to the actual recycled Porous Pave material. It was necessary to protect the newly installed Belgium block curbing and apron with tape and plastic sheeting. We also used vegetable oil to coat all hand tools, wheelbarrows etc. to prevent sticking. The floats and screed boards were continually cleaned and lubricated throughout the process to insure best results. Heavy rubber gloves, protective suits and rubber boots are recommended. We consider good planning and staging of tools and materials essential to efficiency since the material is expensive. Everything was cleaned with biodeisel in the end.
For more information on Porous Pave Driveways, see Porous Pave Inc.
We do feel the costs are offset by the savings in conventional drainage construction (piping, plumbing, catch basins, cultecs). Aside from the real ecological advantages there is the permitting. It is hard to argue against the viability of the product and process if properly installed and maintained. This is the way of the future now!
Think of the possibilities if we can design with multiple systems including rain gardens, planting buffers, treatment wetlands, no mow zones etc.. The possibilities for reducing and in some cases eliminating expensive and invasive subsurface drainage systems are huge!
Think about the big picture…the integrated approach to sustainable landscape development.
Jay Archer, President
914-560-6570
jay@greenjaylandscapedesign.com
