What types of permeable pavers are available in the Vancouver market?

Permeable pavers available in Metro Vancouver include permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP), porous concrete pavers, plastic grid systems, and natural stone with open joints. These systems are increasingly popular due to municipal stormwater incentives and Vancouver's heavy rainfall that makes traditional impervious surfaces problematic for drainage management.

Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP) is the most common and effective option in Metro Vancouver. These look similar to standard concrete pavers but are specifically designed with wider joints (6-10mm) filled with permeable aggregate instead of sand. Popular PICP products include Belgard's Aqua series, Techo-Bloc's Permea series, and Barkman's Eco-Stone line. The pavers themselves are solid concrete, but water infiltrates through the aggregate-filled joints into an open-graded stone base below. PICP systems can handle Metro Vancouver's heavy rainfall while providing the same durability and aesthetic options as standard pavers. Installation costs run $20-$35 per square foot.

Porous concrete pavers have tiny holes throughout the paver surface that allow water to pass directly through the concrete. Manufacturers like Mutual Materials and Expocrete offer porous options, though they're less common than PICP in the Vancouver market. While effective for drainage, porous pavers can clog with organic debris over time — a particular concern in Metro Vancouver where falling leaves, moss, and algae are persistent issues. They require more frequent maintenance than PICP systems.

Plastic grid systems like Invisible Structures' Grasspave2 or similar products create a permeable surface by supporting gravel or grass in a plastic honeycomb structure. These are popular for overflow parking areas, fire lanes, and low-traffic driveways where a fully paved appearance isn't required. The plastic grids cost $8-$15 per square foot installed but provide excellent drainage performance.

Natural stone with open joints uses flagstone, granite, or basalt with 10-20mm gaps between stones filled with permeable aggregate. This creates a rustic, natural appearance while managing stormwater. BC's local basalt and granite work particularly well for this application. Natural stone permeable installations run $25-$45 per square foot due to the labour-intensive cutting and fitting process.

Metro Vancouver's climate makes permeable paving especially valuable because the region receives over 1,200mm of annual rainfall, with North Shore communities exceeding 2,000mm. Many municipalities offer stormwater fee reductions or green infrastructure incentives for properties that reduce impervious surface area. The City of Vancouver, Surrey, and Richmond have programs that make permeable paving financially attractive beyond its environmental benefits.

The key to permeable paver performance in Metro Vancouver is the specialized base system. Unlike standard paver installations that use dense-graded gravel, permeable systems require open-graded aggregate (no fines) that allows water to pass through freely. The base typically consists of 12-18 inches of clear drain rock, often with an underdrain system connecting to the municipal storm system or a dry well. This base acts as a temporary storage reservoir during heavy rainfall events.

Maintenance requirements are higher than standard pavers in Metro Vancouver's organic-rich environment. Permeable joints can clog with leaves, moss, and organic debris, reducing infiltration capacity. Annual vacuum cleaning of the joints is recommended, and joint aggregate may need replenishment every 3-5 years. However, when properly maintained, permeable pavers significantly reduce surface runoff and help prevent the basement flooding and drainage issues common in Metro Vancouver during heavy winter rains.

Professional installation is essential for permeable paving systems because the specialized base design, proper slope calculations, and connection to drainage infrastructure require expertise that goes beyond standard paver installation. The investment in proper permeable paving pays dividends in reduced stormwater management issues and potential municipal incentives.

Need help finding a permeable paving specialist? Vancouver Interlock can match you with contractors experienced in stormwater management systems through the Vancouver Construction Network.

---

Find a Interlock & Paver Contractor

Vancouver Interlock connects you with experienced contractors through the https://vancouverconstructionnetwork.com:

• Terra Siteworks LTD. ✓
• Greenshield Construction inc ✓
• Levelone Construction Ltd. ✓