Permeable pavers are a smart way to manage stormwater in Maryland’s urban areas, reducing flooding, filtering pollutants, and protecting waterways like the Chesapeake Bay. Here’s why they work:

• Stormwater Benefits: Cut runoff by up to 100%, prevent flooding, and recharge groundwater.
• Pollutant Removal: Eliminate 65-100% of solids, 30-98% of metals, and 65-85% of nitrogen and phosphorus.
• Durability in Maryland Weather: Withstand freeze-thaw cycles with proper installation and maintenance.
• Cost-Effective: Installation costs range from $4.50 to $30 per square foot, with lower long-term maintenance costs compared to traditional systems.
• Proven Success: Projects in Howard, Montgomery, and Harford counties show significant reductions in runoff and pollutants.

Permeable pavers not only help Maryland meet EPA water quality goals but also offer a low-maintenance, long-lasting solution for stormwater challenges.

LIDbit – Episode 3

How Permeable Pavers Work in Maryland Weather

Maryland experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from intense summer storms to freezing winter temperatures. These variations create specific challenges for permeable paving systems. A local study explored how these systems perform under Maryland’s climate, focusing on their ability to absorb water and endure winter conditions.

Water Absorption Results

When maintained correctly, permeable pavers can absorb water at rates exceeding 1 inch per hour, rivaling the infiltration capacity of natural sandy loam soil. In some Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP) systems without loose fines, infiltration rates reached an impressive 787 inches per hour (2,000 cm/hr). However, systems containing loose fines saw a significant drop, with rates around 23.6 inches per hour (60 cm/hr) ^[1]. Maintenance also proved crucial for Concrete Grid Pavers (CGP), where rates improved from 2 inches per hour to 3.15 inches per hour after upkeep ^[1].

Winter Performance

Maryland’s freeze-thaw cycles can be tough on paving materials, but proper installation and seasonal maintenance help ensure the durability of permeable pavers. Systems installed in sandy or loamy soils, away from disturbed clay areas and high water tables, maintain their effectiveness throughout the winter months ^[1].

Water Quality Effects

Permeable pavers play a vital role in improving water quality across Maryland’s watersheds. By filtering out pollutants before they can reach local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay, these systems help protect critical ecosystems.

Pollutant Removal Data

When properly maintained, permeable paver systems can achieve impressive pollutant removal rates, including:

• 65-100% of total suspended solids
• 30-98% of harmful metals
• 65-80% of phosphorus
• 80-85% of nitrogen from stormwater runoff

These reductions directly contribute to cleaner water and the ongoing efforts to protect the Chesapeake Bay. For example, Howard County’s 2020 Ellicott City project achieved a 90% reduction in runoff volume, while removing 85% of suspended solids and 70% of phosphorus.

"The permeable paver system showed a 90% reduction in runoff volume during typical rain events and removed approximately 85% of suspended solids and 70% of phosphorus, helping to protect the Patapsco River watershed", reported the Howard County Department of Public Works.

The effectiveness of these systems often depends on soil composition. Sandy soils allow for better water infiltration, while clay soils are particularly effective at capturing pollutants. This balance is critical when designing systems tailored to Maryland’s diverse soil conditions ^[2].

Chesapeake Bay Protection

Permeable pavers also play a key role in protecting the Chesapeake Bay by reducing contaminants that urban stormwater contributes to the ecosystem. According to the Chesapeake Bay Program, urban stormwater accounts for:

A notable example is Montgomery County’s 2018 Sligo Creek project, which reduced stormwater runoff by 85% and removed 75% of total suspended solids and 68% of phosphorus.

"The permeable paver installation reduced stormwater runoff by 85% and removed approximately 75% of total suspended solids and 68% of phosphorus from entering the creek, helping to meet their MS4 permit requirements", stated the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection.

These projects are instrumental in helping Maryland meet the EPA’s Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) requirements for the Chesapeake Bay watershed ^[3]. Urban areas, where traditional stormwater management can be difficult, particularly benefit from these installations. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) highlights permeable pavers as a practical solution for achieving water quality goals.

"The installation resulted in a 72% reduction in stormwater volume and removal of 82% of heavy metals and 65% of phosphorus from runoff, contributing to the city’s Watershed Implementation Plan goals for Chesapeake Bay restoration", noted the Baltimore Office of Sustainability.

Maryland Project Examples

Maryland boasts several impressive examples of permeable paver installations that highlight their ability to handle stormwater runoff effectively. One standout project is the Colmar Manor Street Project.

In 2021, Colmar Manor, MD, upgraded an asphalt intersection by installing PaveDrain, a permeable paving system equipped with an in-situ water level sensor for monitoring its performance. This system serves a dual purpose: it acts as both a functional roadway and a stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP). Performance data collected by the sensors shows the system not only meets but exceeds design expectations for stormwater management, earning it local stormwater compliance credits.

Key Performance Highlights

"The system has been functioning as both a roadway and stormwater BMP without maintenance, with sensors documenting stormwater performance exceeding expectations, suitable for local stormwater compliance crediting." – Chesapeake Stormwater Network (2023)

Beyond Colmar Manor, additional projects across Maryland provide further evidence of the effectiveness of permeable paving systems in addressing stormwater challenges.

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Installation and Upkeep Requirements

Understanding the costs and maintenance needs of permeable pavers is crucial for making informed decisions about stormwater management.

Price Analysis

The initial cost of installing permeable pavers varies based on the materials used and the complexity of the project. While these systems may have higher upfront costs, they often lead to significant savings over time by reducing the need for extensive stormwater infrastructure. For comparison, conventional stormwater systems – comprising drains, reinforced concrete pipes, catch basins, and outfalls – cost between $9.50 and $11.50 per square foot, whereas permeable systems typically range from $4.50 to $6.50 per square foot ^[5].

Here’s a breakdown of costs for different permeable pavement options:

Maintenance Steps

To ensure long-term functionality, regular maintenance is essential. Annual upkeep costs are estimated to range from $0.25 to $1 per square foot ^[4]. Key maintenance practices include:

• Quarterly Inspections: Check for sediment buildup and ensure proper drainage.
• Biannual Cleaning: Use vacuum sweeping or pressure washing to clear debris and maintain permeability.
• Annual Assessments: Examine joint materials and replace them if necessary to maintain system performance.

Investing in routine maintenance not only extends the lifespan of permeable paving systems but also ensures they continue to manage stormwater effectively.

Pro Landscapes MD Services

Pro Landscapes MD specializes in installing permeable interlocking paver systems designed to handle stormwater efficiently. By combining technical know-how with eco-friendly drainage solutions, they ensure water is absorbed and filtered effectively, promoting durability and functionality.

Permeable Paver Options

Pro Landscapes MD provides interlocking permeable paver systems that are installed over specially engineered sub-base layers. These pavers are designed with small gaps that allow water to pass through, directing stormwater into the ground naturally. This method not only manages water effectively but also supports environmental sustainability.

To complement their paver options, they also offer additional drainage solutions tailored to specific needs.

Drainage System Services

Beyond paver installation, Pro Landscapes MD offers a range of drainage services to improve stormwater management. Their expertise includes:

• Installing and repairing French drains and dry riverbeds
• Laying and maintaining underground drain pipes
• Precision grading and yard leveling to enhance water flow and eliminate pooling issues

With a focus on Maryland’s unique stormwater challenges, Pro Landscapes MD delivers solutions that are both practical and visually appealing, ensuring outdoor spaces remain functional and attractive.

Conclusion: Permeable Pavers for Maryland Properties

Studies indicate that permeable pavers can cut stormwater runoff by anywhere from 25% to 100% ^[2], helping to filter out pollutants and safeguard local waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

A great example of their effectiveness is the Overlook Pool Parking Lot project in Howard County, completed in November 2021 ^[6]. This project demonstrated how a well-planned permeable paver system can handle stormwater efficiently while maintaining surface durability.

With such proven success, Maryland property owners have a reliable option for managing stormwater. These systems not only help the environment but also add practical value. Pro Landscapes MD specializes in delivering solutions that include:

• Professional site assessments to ensure the system works as intended
• Custom designs that integrate seamlessly with your existing landscape
• Expert installation by technicians knowledgeable about Maryland’s environmental standards
• Ongoing maintenance services to keep the system performing at its best

For property owners looking to improve stormwater management and enhance their outdoor spaces, Pro Landscapes MD offers consultations. Their team serves central Maryland and Washington, DC, with solutions that align with local watershed protection goals.

Keeping permeable pavers in top shape is simple with regular cleaning and inspections, ensuring they remain an effective and visually appealing way to manage Maryland’s rainfall challenges.

FAQs

Are permeable pavers a cost-effective and efficient option for managing stormwater in Maryland?

Permeable pavers might come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional stormwater systems, mainly due to the materials and labor involved. But over time, they can actually save money by cutting down on the need for extensive drainage systems and reducing ongoing maintenance costs.

When it comes to performance, permeable pavers excel at managing stormwater. They allow water to seep into the ground, which helps reduce runoff, minimizes flooding risks, and addresses water pollution – issues that are particularly relevant in Maryland’s climate. While the initial expense may be greater, permeable pavers provide a long-term, effective approach to managing stormwater.

How do you maintain permeable pavers to ensure they work effectively in Maryland’s climate?

To ensure permeable pavers perform well in Maryland’s climate, regular upkeep is a must. One of the most important tasks is vacuum sweeping, which helps clear out sediment and debris that might block the system. On top of that, make it a habit to inspect the surface for any signs of wear or damage and take care of repairs promptly to keep drainage working as it should. Don’t forget to manage nearby vegetation – overgrowth can interfere with the pavers’ functionality.

After heavy rainstorms, check for any signs of clogging or pooling water, and address any issues right away. With steady maintenance, permeable pavers can continue to manage stormwater effectively while offering an environmentally friendly option for your outdoor spaces.

How do permeable pavers help improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay watershed?

Permeable pavers are an important tool for improving water quality in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. They allow rainwater to soak into the ground instead of rushing into storm drains, which helps replenish groundwater, cut down on surface runoff, and limit the amount of pollutants and sediments that end up in nearby rivers and streams.

By naturally managing stormwater, these pavers help the region move closer to meeting EPA water quality standards. This approach is particularly useful in Maryland, where heavy rain often causes significant runoff challenges, making permeable pavers a practical solution for healthier ecosystems and cleaner waterways.

Related posts

• 8 Steps for Installing Permeable Pavers
• How Permeable Pavers Reduce Stormwater Runoff
• 5 Cost-Effective Stormwater Solutions for Maryland Homes
• Permeable Pavers for Maryland Homes: Costs and Benefits