Drainage-friendly driveways run water away from your home and create a stable surface for vehicles. They help prevent pooling, which can damage the surface, create slipping hazards, and flood surrounding areas. They also filter harmful pollutants from rainwater.
In this guide, we’ll explore various types of driveways that drain water, their benefits, installation processes, and maintenance tips.
Types of Driveways That Promote Drainage
We recommend laying down one of the following driveway materials to improve how your driveway handles water runoff.
Gravel
Gravel driveways consist of small stones or crushed rocks that allow water to seep through easily. Gravel driveways are inexpensive and provide a natural, rustic look. They also help filter contaminants as water passes through the layers of stone and into the soil beneath. With proper maintenance, they can last for many years, and the upkeep costs are minimal.
Pervious Concrete
Pervious concrete is specifically designed for water drainage. Unlike traditional concrete, it features little to no sand, creating a porous surface with tiny air pockets that allow water to pass through quickly. Some pervious concrete can drain up to 4 inches of water per minute. You can also finish it to look like real concrete.
Porous Pavers
Porous pavers are interlocking concrete bricks with small gaps or joints between each brick that allow water to filter through to the ground below. Pavers come in various styles and patterns, making them versatile for homeowners who want style and utility. They are often stronger and more earthquake-resistant than poured concrete slabs.
How To Install a Drainage-Friendly Driveway
Installing a drainage-friendly driveway is a complicated process. You can DIY some methods, while others require professional expertise. Let’s discuss your options below.
Site Preparation
This step involves excavating the existing surface, confirming it has the proper grading for water flow, and compacting the soil. For drainage-friendly driveways, assess the soil’s permeability and make adjustments to achieve adequate water absorption.
Base Layer Installation
The base layer is necessary for drainage and stability. It involves laying a level base of crushed stone or gravel, which helps filter water and provides a stable foundation for the surface material. The depth and makeup of the base layer may vary depending on the driveway type and soil conditions.
Surface Material Application
The final step is applying the surface material. For gravel driveways, this might include adding a layer of decorative gravel on top of the base. Permeable paver driveways require proper spacing and leveling. Pervious concrete needs special tamping and rolling techniques for consistency and porosity.
Driveway Maintenance
Regular maintenance can prevent clogging, promote drainage, and help your driveway resist wear and tear over time.
Regular Cleaning
Periodic cleaning helps prevent debris buildup. For gravel driveways, raking can help maintain an even surface and prevent compaction. Porous pavers and pervious concrete may benefit from occasional pressure washing to remove grime and improve drainage.
Addressing Clogging Issues
Over time, sediment may collect on drainage-friendly driveways. Here’s how you can restore your driveway’s performance:
- Gravel: Gravel driveways might require occasional top-ups to replace displaced stones.
- Pavers: With porous pavers, you may need to top off the joining material periodically to maintain proper drainage between units.
- Pervious concrete: For pervious concrete, use a leaf blower to help keep the surface clear.
Seasonal Care
When necessary, use environmentally friendly de-icing products instead of sand or salt. In the fall, promptly remove fallen leaves to prevent them from decomposing and clogging the surface.
Types of Driveways: Cost Comparison
While some drainage-friendly options may have higher initial installation costs, they often offer long-term savings through reduced maintenance and increased longevity.
Gravel driveways are typically the least expensive option, with materials costing about $0.40 to $2 per square foot. Porous pavers range from $10 to $70 per square foot for materials, while pervious concrete costs range from $6 to $25 per square foot installed.*
*All cost information in this article sourced from Angi.
Best Practices for Preventing Driveway Flooding and Pooling
Consider these additional strategies to help prevent driveway puddles and flooding:
- Bioswales: These landscaped drainage courses can help manage water runoff.
- French drains: These can help channel water away from problem areas.
- Maintain gutters and downspouts: Keep them clear and direct water away from the driveway.
- Proper grading: Make sure your driveway slopes away from your home and other structures.
- Rain gardens: Create a rain garden to absorb and filter runoff.
Alternative Materials for Driveway Drainage
The market for drainage-friendly driveway materials continues to evolve new and improved options for managing water runoff.
Gravel Grids
Gravel grids combine gravel’s drainage benefits with added stability. These systems use interlocking plastic or recycled materials to create a stable base that holds gravel in place. Gravel grids prevent stone displacement while maintaining good drainage. They’re good for sloped driveways or areas with considerable vehicle traffic.
Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavers
Permeable interlocking concrete pavers (PICPs) are a step above traditional porous pavers. The assembly of these specialized pavers features gaps, which can be filled with smaller, crushed gravel or pebbles to improve drainage.
PICPs offer great load-bearing capacity, making them suitable for residential and commercial applications. They also come in various styles and colors, allowing for creative design options.
Choosing the Right Drainage Solution for Your Driveway
Consider the following factors when researching the best drainage driveway for your home.
Assess Your Landscape
Evaluate your property’s topography, existing drainage patterns, and soil type. A steeply sloped driveway may benefit from a combination of drainage solutions, such as gravel with integrated drainage channels. For flat properties, pervious concrete or porous pavers might be more suitable.
Consider Local Climate
Areas with heavy rainfall or snow may require durable drainage systems. Materials that resist cracking and heaving, such as certain types of permeable pavers, may be preferable in regions with freeze-thaw cycles.
Evaluate Soil Type
The soil type on your property affects how well water can be absorbed. Sandy soils generally drain well, while clay soils may require additional drainage. If your soil has poor drainage, you should build a deeper base layer or install additional drainage features.
