Yes, HydroSTON pavers can be installed on driveways with slopes up to 7% without adversely affecting infiltration performance. However, infiltration decreases as the slope increases.

The principal effect of slope on any permeable pavement is the degree of infiltration of rain and stormwater. The greater the slope, the faster will water move over the pavement hindering infiltration through the pavement. This applies particularly to periods of heavy rainfall.

HydroSTON is porous and free draining across the full face and body of the paver. While HydroSTON functions best in terms of permeability when laid at zero gradient, HydroSTON permeable pavements may be constructed on slopes up to at least 7% (gradient of approx 1:14) without adverse effect on infiltration performance.

A number of HydroSTON driveways have been installed in high gradient situations and appear to be effectively capturing and infiltrating rainfall. Light rainfall should be infiltrated regardless of slope.

Steep driveways may have a higher rate of abrasion over time from braking and acceleration. Should damage occur, however, the segmental paving units can be easily lifted and turned over or replaced with new units.

Joints are generally not required for HydroSTON pavers. For heavy loads on vehicle pavements with HydroSTON 80, joints filled with crushed aggregate should be considered.

Gap joints are not required with HydroSTON 50 pavers, which are intended for pedestrian only purposes. Joints are not required because the loading on footpaths, courtyards etc is minimal.

HydroSTON 60 & 80 vehicle pavements intended for light vehicles eg residential driveways, carparks and parking spaces are laid without gap joints.

When HydroSTON 80 vehicle pavements are to be subject to heavy loadings eg semi-trailers, fire engines or garbage trucks, pavers could be laid with 4mm av. joints to ensure lock up of the pavement and provide flexibility of movement of individual pavers under load. Joints should be filled and compacted with 1-3mm low fines crushed rock.

HydroSTON pavers are available in standard colours such as Charcoal and Light Grey. More than 30 colour options that can be custom ordered. See colour options here.

Yes, HydroSTON® permeable concrete pavers are suitable for wheelchair use and spaces that require inclusive, mobility-accessible surfaces. They comply with key Australian Standards, including AS 1428.1:2009 (Design for Access and Mobility – Part 1). HydroSTON pavers provide a firm, stable, and smooth surface, manufactured to tight dimensional tolerances for seamless, gap-free installation. They also feature a P5 slip resistance rating, the highest classification for wet surfaces, ensuring safety in all conditions. When installed according to specification, HydroSTON delivers a fully compliant, wheelchair-friendly surface ideal for public paths, plazas, and other accessible environments.

For a bevel-free surface, the pavers can be laid with the underside facing upwards in pedestrian-only applications.

Regular brushing or vacuuming is recommended to keep the surface free of debris. If infiltration decreases, high-pressure wet suction cleaning can restore performance​​.

If an oil spill occurs on HydroSTON permeable pavers, follow these steps to ensure that  permeability and appearance are maintained:

Absorb the Oil: Immediately after the spill, apply absorbent materials like cat litter, sand, or a commercial oil absorbent to soak up the excess oil. Let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes, then sweep or vacuum it up.

Use a Degreaser or Mild Detergent: Apply a concrete-safe degreaser or a mild detergent mixed with warm water to the affected area. Gently scrub the surface with a stiff bristle brush, focusing on the oil-stained areas.

Pressure Wash: After scrubbing, rinse the area with a low-pressure washer to help remove any remaining oil and detergent. Be sure to avoid excessive pressure that could damage the paver surface.

Wet Vacuuming or Suction Equipment: For deep cleaning, especially after larger spills, use wet suction equipment or a vacuum specifically designed for cleaning permeable pavements. This will help restore the permeability by removing oil and debris from within the paver’s pores.

Remove and Clean Affected Pavers: If the oil has deeply penetrated the pavers, individual pavers can be easily lifted using a paver puller. Once removed, the pavers can be cleaned offsite using a degreaser and pressure washing. Allow them to dry completely before reinstallation.

Replace Severely Affected Pavers: If the pavers cannot be adequately cleaned, they can be replaced with new ones. HydroSTON pavers are available in standard sizes and colors, making replacements seamless.

• Reinstall the Pavers: After cleaning or replacing, reinstall the pavers in their original positions, ensuring the base and bedding layers are level and intact. Compact the pavers gently with a rubber mallet to ensure they are secure.

Preventive Maintenance: Regular cleaning, such as sweeping or vacuuming, can help prevent oil buildup and maintain the pavers’ appearance and functionality.

HydroSTON 80 vehicle pavers are designed to withstand heavy loads, including garbage trucks and fire engines, when installed according to recommended guidelines​​.

You can request samples or a quote by contacting HydroCon.

HydroSTON 80 (4.5kg) and HydroSTON 50 Block (1.9kg) pavers can be sent via post​​.

HydroSTON pavers, when properly maintained, can last for at least 25 to 30 years or longer. Their longevity is primarily dependent on regular cleaning and maintenance to preserve infiltration performance, but the high-quality materials used in their construction, such as quartz aggregate, ensure their durability over time.

If maintained correctly—through periodic brushing, vacuuming, and possibly occasional high-pressure cleaning.

Please contact HydroCon for current HydroSTON installations near you.