Building Long-Lasting, Permeable Pavements
HydroSTON is engineered to deliver superior permeability, strength, and durability for both pedestrian and vehicle applications. To ensure maximum performance, correct installation and regular maintenance are essential. In this post we walk through the guidelines and best practices for preparing, installing, and maintaining HydroSTON pavements to preserve their functional and aesthetic integrity for decades.
- Preparing the Substructure
A solid foundation is the key to long-term pavement stability and permeability.
- Excavation: Excavate to the required depth — typically 300mm below the final pavement level.
- Edge Support: Install concrete strip footings or standard kerbs along all unbound edges to prevent lateral spread.
- Compaction: Compact the subgrade in 100mm layers using a plate compactor to achieve a stable base.
- Drainage Provision: Incorporate appropriate drainage, allowing water to infiltrate directly into the subgrade, flow toward landscaped areas, or connect to a stormwater system via slotted drainage pipes if required.
- Aggregate Selection: Use only low or no-fines crushed aggregate — preferably virgin basalt (blue metal) — for both base and bedding layers.
Avoid sand, recycled concrete, or non-permeable road base materials, as they impede water infiltration.
- Keeping the Pavement Clean During Construction
Protecting the pavement surface during the construction phase is crucial for maintaining permeability.
- Cover exposed surfaces with geotextile fabric or protective sheeting when other works are underway nearby.
- Prevent vehicle tracking or heavy machinery movement over installed areas.
- Promptly remove construction debris, bedding material, and fine particles before they embed in the porous structure.
- Restrict access to the newly paved area until the full installation is complete.
- Laying HydroSTON Pavers
Attention to detail during installation ensures both aesthetic consistency and structural performance.
- Blend pavers from a minimum of three pallets for a uniform finish.
- Lay pavers tightly together in the desired pattern — the Herringbone pattern is recommended for HydroSTON 80 in vehicle applications.
- Secure edge restraints to prevent future movement.
- Use a rubber hammer for fine adjustments and place a rubber mat under the compactor to avoid surface damage.
- Regularly sweep away loose materials to keep the surface clean.
- Never cut pavers directly on the installed surface — always use proper protection beneath cutting areas.
- Final Cleaning and Finishing
After installation:
- Thoroughly sweep, vacuum, and rinse the pavement to remove all dust and debris.
- Perform a final plate compaction with a rubber mat to achieve a clean, stable surface.
Maintenance Guidelines
Routine maintenance preserves HydroSTON’s high infiltration capacity and structural longevity.
- Regular Cleaning and Preventative Maintenance
- Monthly (First 12 Months): Inspect for debris and sediment buildup; sweep or vacuum as necessary.
- Quarterly: Conduct light brushing or vacuum sweeping to remove fine particles.
- Annually: Test infiltration performance and inspect for wear or structural movement.
- Deep Cleaning and Permeability Restoration
Over time, natural sediment accumulation may reduce permeability. To restore full performance:
- Use high-pressure hosing or vacuum suction cleaning if infiltration rates decline.
- Conduct wet suction cleaning every 3–5 years as part of your long-term maintenance plan.
- Avoid allowing sediment to accumulate — clogging the porous system can compromise performance.