Pigmented Pervious Pavement’s Curb Appeal

Since pervious concrete contributes to environmental sustainability by controlling pollution and flooding due to storm water runoff, its cachet among

Since pervious concrete contributes to environmental sustainability by controlling pollution and flooding due to storm water runoff, its cachet among builders and developers is increasing as the ÎgreenÌ movement gains momentum. Accordingly, pervious concrete pavement is becoming good business.

Pervious concrete is produced by eliminating fine aggregate from the mix design, so voids between coarse aggregates remain mostly unfilled. Thus, water flowing through the concrete percolates into soil below, instead of flooding storm sewers and washing pollutants into streams and watersheds. Moreover, the pavement’s porosity allows air to reach roots, giving nearby trees a better chance to flourish.

Contributing to a Platinum rating Û the highest certification under U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program Û pervious concrete was used for parking areas and walkways of Black Mountain Ranch House, the 28th building to attain top LEED status. Vulcan Materials in San Diego, Calif., supplied the mix, which was placed by T.B. Penick & Sons, also of San Diego.

Black Mountain Ranch House serves as a sales office for northern San Diego’s high-end Del Sur residential development. A priority in designing the project was emphasizing the development’s environmental sustainability by incorporating features functionally and architecturally compatible with the natural setting. While regulating runoff, pervious concrete on the site harmonizes with the landscape, as it is tinted with a custom color echoing the area’s natural stone. Del Sur Buff pigment was selected by the landscape architect and custom formulated by Davis Colors. Used for both pervious and conventional pavements in all public areas throughout the development, the color visually ties together Del Sur’s seven neighborhoods.

According to Davis Colors Vice President Nick Paris, Colors are an important part of the growing acceptance of pervious concrete.

Adds T.B. Penick Vice President of Operations Byron Klemaske II, The majority of pervious concrete we place is integrally pigmented. In some cases, we grind off the top for exposed aggregate with a color background, a combination that is pleasing without disrupting the structure of the concrete or diminishing drainage.