Facts and Fun: Pavement Edition

Posted on: 31 May 2023

Paving a residential driveway presents an exciting opportunity to not only improve the aesthetics of a home but also enhance its functionality and lifespan. However, proper drainage plays a crucial role in the overall performance and durability of your paved driveway. Without adequate drainage, standing water can seep into the pavement, causing damage such as cracks, potholes, and, ultimately, significant deterioration.

To prevent these costly issues, here are some drainage solution tips to consider when paving your residential driveway. 

Grading the Driveway

First and foremost, the driveway should be correctly graded.

• Leveling and Sloping: Grading refers to the process of leveling and sloping the driveway, which is vital in ensuring water runoff is directed away from the driveway and your home. 

This slope ensures that water flows from higher to lower ground, preventing puddles from forming.

Use of Permeable Paving Materials

Another effective strategy to consider when dealing with drainage issues is the use of permeable paving materials.

• Permeability: Permeable pavers allow water to pass through them and infiltrate the ground beneath, reducing the amount of runoff. These materials not only solve drainage issues but also contribute to a greener environment by reducing stormwater runoff, filtering pollutants, and replenishing groundwater.

Installation of French Drains

For driveways with significant drainage issues, the installation of a French drain may be a viable solution.

• French Drain: A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock containing a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from an area.

This system can be particularly useful in regions prone to heavy rainfall or for properties with a high water table.

Incorporate Drainage Swales

A swale is a shallow, wide, and graded ditch designed to redirect water.

• Swales: Adding swales on the sides of your driveway can provide an extra layer of security against water buildup. By capturing runoff, they guide it away from your driveway, directing it towards designated areas like gardens or storm sewers.

Swales can be seamlessly integrated into your landscape, offering functionality without compromising on aesthetics.

Use of Trench Drains

Also known as a channel drain, a trench drain is a specific type of floor drain containing a dominant trough or channel-shaped body.

• Trenches: These are often used on driveways where the sheet flow of water is heavy across a large surface area. By capturing this water, a trench drain prevents it from saturating the foundation of your driveway, thus maintaining its integrity.

Always consider consulting with a professional paving contractor to provide guidance and professional expertise in implementing these solutions.

Reach out to a company like Cornerstone Paving LLC to learn more.