What Are the Different Types of Permeable Paving?

Site Administrator • January 10, 2023

Permeable paving systems are growing in popularity for their ability to drain water easily and provide a more sustainable alternative to typical paving materials. For this reason, more and more residents, businesses, and municipalities are adopting permeable paving systems. If you’re considering one of these systems, you should learn the different types of permeable paving to ensure you find the right materials for you. Here’s what to consider.

Permeable Concrete

Permeable concrete is mixed with stone and laid without a gravel or sand sub-base because it’s more porous than traditional concrete. This allows the concrete to slowly and harmlessly absorb water to reduce runoff or pooling, making it more efficient than traditional concrete. While not as permeable as other pavers, permeable concrete is still a good and easy way to improve walkways.

Interlocking Pavers

For an effective and stylish option, interlocking pavers like bricks create small gaps for water to drain through without impeding walking or rolling things like strollers or walkers. The paver itself doesn’t have to be permeable, so long as those small gaps are present in between the pavers. This option has by far the most design options available and can complement the surrounding architecture.

Porous Asphalt

Like permeable concrete, porous asphalt has small openings that absorb water. These openings are nearly imperceivable and look like typical asphalt. Porous asphalt is laid on top of a stone bed so that the water it absorbs can drain back into the soil, resulting in a healthier surrounding environment. For parking lots and similar applications, porous asphalt is the way to go.

Permeable Aggregate

Permeable aggregate is possibly the simplest of the different types of permeable paving. It is a good way to make pathways or protect soil and plants. Pouring permeable aggregate, like gravel, over soil and around plants, protect the roots while allowing water to drain easily into the soil to nourish the plants. For example, trees commonly line streets in municipalities and are protected by grates that rust and break over time. Permeable aggregate provides the same function without degrading in quality and is much easier to maintain.

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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.