How Does Permeable Paving Help With Stormwater Management?

Jim Robinson • July 17, 2023

As a project manager for your community, stormwater management might not be at the forefront of your mind. Still, it’s an important factor to consider. Concrete pavement produces runoff, which can contribute to flooding and erosion and negatively affect a neighborhood and its natural surroundings. That’s where permeable paving comes in. This innovative pavement not only looks great, but it also aids you in maintaining control of water retention and minimizing related damage. Let’s dig into how permeable paving helps with stormwater management.

Reduces Runoff

Permeable paving allows water to seep through rather than run off its surface. This pavement combines concrete pavers, gravel, or resin, which allow water to pass through into a layer of crushed stone below. This makes it much easier for water to flow into the ground even during a storm.

Makes for Cleaner Groundwater

By reducing the runoff produced by traditional paving, permeable pavement can drastically improve water quality. This is especially important in cities, where impervious surfaces, such as roads and sidewalks, can lead to polluted waterways. The porous nature of permeable paving allows stormwater to filter naturally and return to the water cycle cleaner than it would with traditional paving.

Lowers the Risk of Post-Storm Flooding

Permeable paving helps with storm water management by significantly reducing the risk of localized flooding. Since the water enters the ground where it falls rather than running off the surface, it has more time to absorb into the soil, reducing the chances of dangerous flash flooding. This can be particularly beneficial to communities that are prone to heavy rain or have low-lying areas where flooding is a frequent issue.

Promotes Better Land Management

Another benefit of permeable paving is that it aids natural land management. Since the pavement allows water to seep into the soil, it can soak the earth and promote plant growth. Additionally, permeable pavement uses recycled materials, such as gravel, contributing to more sustainable land use.

Permeable paving is relatively new, but community projects can benefit greatly from its implementation. At Rockpave, we want to give you all the permeable paving solutions you need for your neighborhood. Our materials can facilitate drainage and help you maintain your community, from parks to recreational centers. As your district improves its infrastructure, keep in mind the benefits of permeable paving. By making the switch, you’ll take a step toward environmental and community well-being.

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Resin Bound Tree Pit Surrounds

By Jim Robinson • September 9, 2025

Resin Bound Tree Pits: The Smarter Way to Protect and Showcase Urban Trees In towns and cities everywhere, urban planners face the same challenge: how to protect tree roots while keeping public spaces clean, attractive, and safe. Traditional solutions—like loose gravel, soil, or metal grilles—often fall short. That’s where resin bound tree pits come in. What is a Resin Bound Tree Pit? A resin bound tree pit is a surfacing system that uses a blend of natural stone aggregates bound together with a clear, UV tolerant resin. Installed around the base of a tree, it creates a strong, permeable, and decorative surface that allows rainwater to drain through while protecting the soil and roots below. Think of it as a breathable shield for urban trees: tough enough to withstand foot traffic, but porous enough to support healthy root growth. Why Choose Resin Bound for Tree Pits? Permeability for Healthy Trees The resin bound surface is fully porous, meaning water and air can still reach the roots. This promotes long-term tree health and reduces the risk of waterlogging. Cleaner, Safer Surfaces Unlike loose gravel, resin bound surfaces don’t scatter, sink, or create trip hazards. In fact they help to eliminate trip hazards! They provide a smooth, stable finish—ideal for high-footfall areas. Aesthetic Appeal With a wide choice of natural stone colors, resin bound tree pits can complement surrounding paving, creating a polished, modern look in public spaces. Durability & Low Maintenance Resin bound surfacing is resistant to weeds, litter build-up, and erosion. It keeps the area around tree bases tidy without constant upkeep. Accessibility Friendly A smooth surface around tree pits is easier to navigate for strollers, wheelchairs, and pedestrians—making public spaces more inclusive. Where Are Resin Bound Tree Pits Used? City sidewalks to reduce tripping hazards and improve walkability Parks and plazas for cleaner, more attractive landscapes Shopping districts where appearance and safety matter Corporate campuses or schools to combine functionality with visual appeal A Sustainable Choice for Urban Environments! Resin bound systems align with modern sustainability goals. By ensuring stormwater naturally drains into the ground, they help prevent flooding and reduce strain on drainage systems. Combined with their long service life, a very competitive price point, they’re a future-proof investment for greener, smarter cities. Final Thoughts If you are considering the use of resin bound for your tree pits, don't just choose any resin bound product, choose one that is time tested, data driven and will sustain the demands of a harsh city environment. A good resin bound product will have similar strengths to concrete yet it will be completely pervious. Resin bound tree pits are more than just a neat landscaping detail—they’re a practical solution that supports tree health, improves safety, and enhances the look of urban spaces. If you’re planning a streetscape project, commercial landscape, or public park, resin bound surfacing could be the perfect choice for both form and function.