Porous asphalt has developed as a highly effective alternative to traditional pavement. It offers superior stormwater management while maintaining the strength of conventional asphalt — a better fit for many project types.
As professionals in commercial asphalt paving in Charleston, SC, we know businesses are looking for solutions that combine durability and sustainability. Today, we want to break down everything you need to know about porous asphalt, its benefits, applications, and why it may be the right choice for your next paving project.
Understanding Porous Asphalt in Detail
Porous asphalt is a specially designed type of pavement that allows water to pass through its surface and into an underlying reservoir, where it is gradually absorbed into the soil.
Unlike conventional asphalt, which creates runoff and contributes to drainage issues, porous asphalt helps manage stormwater naturally. It is composed of coarse aggregates and reduced fine particles, creating air voids within its structure that allow water to penetrate. Porous asphalt also reduces the need for expensive drainage systems and, when installed over a stone recharge bed, provides temporary water storage.
Porous asphalt is particularly useful for businesses seeking to enhance sustainability and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Environmental agencies and commercial construction companies widely recommend it as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paving solutions.
How Does Porous Asphalt Work?
The effectiveness of porous asphalt lies in its unique multi-layered structure:
First from the top is the surface layer. This is the actual porous asphalt layer, engineered with larger aggregate particles and fewer fines to create voids. This allows water to flow directly through the pavement instead of accumulating on the surface.
Beneath the asphalt is the stone recharge bed — a thick layer of crushed stone that temporarily stores stormwater. As water percolates, it gradually infiltrates the soil or is directed into underground drainage systems.
The final layers help stabilize the pavement and filter out contaminants, verifying that only clean water re-enters the environment. This design is what makes porous asphalt such a common choice for commercial parking lots, industrial sites, municipal roadways, and similar projects where effective water management is crucial.
Safety & Economic Benefits of Using Porous Asphalt
Choosing porous asphalt as part of your commercial asphalt paving project can provide numerous advantages:
| Category | Benefits |
| Environmental & stormwater management | ● Prevents flooding and erosion by allowing water to drain naturally.
● Reduces pollutants entering storm drains. ● Helps recharge groundwater supplies. |
| Cost-effectiveness & maintenance | ● Eliminates the need for additional drainage infrastructure.
● Reduces standing water, which minimizes pavement wear and tear. ● Long lifespan with minimal repairs compared to traditional asphalt. |
| Safety & performance | ● Prevents hydroplaning and improves traction in wet conditions.
● Reduces ice formation in colder climates by allowing water to drain through. ● Enhances pedestrian and vehicle safety in commercial settings. |
When installed by an experienced asphalt construction partner, porous asphalt provides a sustainable and durable solution that benefits businesses and property owners in both the short and long term.
Common Applications in Commercial Asphalt Paving
Porous asphalt is widely used in various commercial and municipal projects. At Simmons Construction & Paving Company Inc., we’ve installed high-performance porous asphalt in numerous settings:
- Commercial parking lots. Businesses in Charleston, SC, are increasingly choosing porous asphalt for parking lots due to its cost savings and water drainage capabilities. It helps maintain surface integrity, reducing the need for constant repairs.
- Roadways & municipal infrastructure. Many cities incorporate porous asphalt for road surfaces to reduce the burden on stormwater drainage systems and minimize pothole formation.
- Industrial & commercial driveways. Porous asphalt is a great choice for industrial facilities, warehouses, corporate campuses, and any businesses looking for a durable and eco-friendly paving solution.
- Sidewalks & bike paths. Porous asphalt enhances the longevity of pedestrian walkways while reducing the risk of water damage and surface cracks.
If you’re planning a commercial asphalt paving project in Charleston, SC, our team can assess whether porous asphalt is the best option for your specific needs.
Things to Remember When Using Porous Asphalt
While porous asphalt offers many advantages, it is important to consider its potential limitations and whether it’s suitable for the job. When working with porous asphalt, remember these tips:
- Clogging & maintenance. Over time, debris and dirt can accumulate in the pavement’s voids, reducing its effectiveness. Routine vacuum sweeping and pressure washing are required to maintain optimal permeability.
- Questionable suitability for heavy-load areas. Porous asphalt may not be ideal for areas with extremely heavy truck traffic or industrial equipment. If subjected to constant pressure, it may degrade faster than traditional asphalt.
- Initial installation cost. While porous asphalt offers long-term savings, the upfront cost is often slightly higher due to specialized materials and installation requirements. Still, these costs are typically offset by reduced drainage infrastructure and maintenance expenses.
If porous asphalt isn’t the best fit, our commercial concrete paving company also offers a range of alternative paving solutions.
Partner Up with Charleston’s Trusted Paving Contractor
At Simmons Construction & Paving Company Inc., we pride ourselves on delivering the highest-quality asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial clients. Whether you’re looking to install porous asphalt, traditional asphalt, or concrete surfaces, we have the expertise to provide long-lasting results.
✔ 37+ years of industry experience as a commercial asphalt and concrete services company.
✔ Custom paving solutions to meet the unique needs of your business.
✔ Compliance with local and federal regulations for stormwater management.
✔ Professional equipment and techniques for superior durability and performance.
Contact Simmons today for a free consultation and find out how our expertise can improve your project.