
{"id":22389,"date":"2025-02-11T15:20:13","date_gmt":"2025-02-11T15:20:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/?p=22389"},"modified":"2025-08-18T11:43:49","modified_gmt":"2025-08-18T10:43:49","slug":"choosing-the-correct-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/blog\/choosing-the-correct-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters\/","title":{"rendered":"Choosing the correct aggregate for Permeable Paving: Why it matters"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One in four properties in England will be at risk of flooding by 2050,<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> according to a report by the UK\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/nic.org.uk\/\">National Infrastructure Commission (NIC)<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/environment-agency\">Environment Agency<\/a>. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable due to the dominance of impermeable surfaces like concrete and asphalt, which prevent rainwater from naturally infiltrating the ground. As climate change intensifies and extreme weather events become more frequent, the need for effective Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) is greater than ever. Permeable paving plays a critical role in managing stormwater, but its success depends on using the right aggregates to ensure proper infiltration, storage, and filtration.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why the correct aggregates are essential for permeable paving<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are innovative water management techniques designed to replicate natural drainage patterns. They address challenges associated with urbanisation, such as surface water flooding and the strain on drainage networks. By managing rainwater at its source, SuDS minimise the volume and speed of water entering drainage systems and waterways. This reduces flooding risks and enhances water quality by filtering pollutants from runoff. Permeable paving is one of a range of SuDS methods and its effectiveness heavily relies on specific aggregates which facilitate water infiltration, storage and promote natural filtration which support groundwater recharge, making them a crucial component in permeable paving as part of a SuDS solution.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Permeable aggregates help to restore the natural water cycle disrupted by urban surfaces like concrete and tarmac by facilitating the infiltration of water into the soil. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">These aggregates are designed to allow water to soak into the ground slowly, emulating the natural process of water recharge which is central to the function of SuDS.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-22451 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-450x253.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2-20x11.jpg 20w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The correct aggregate sizes for permeable paving projects<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When designing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/product-category\/permeable-paving\/\">permeable paving<\/a> systems, choosing the right aggregate size is essential for ensuring adequate water storage and creating a structurally durable sub base to support the intended traffic use while allowing water to drain efficiently. Following industry guidelines such as BS 7533-13:2009 (Guide for the design of permeable pavements constructed with concrete paving blocks and flags) ensures your project meets UK standards for performance and sustainability. Below, we\u2019ll break down the correct aggregate sizes for each layer of a permeable paving system.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sub base: 4\/20mm aggregate<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What to use:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Clean, free-draining aggregate with a size range of 4mm to 20mm (BS EN13242: 2002 -Coarse graded crushed rock or gravel.) The aggregate must have a void ratio of between 30- 32% for water storage purposes. Aggregate with this void ratio provides approximately 1m3 of water storage for every 3m3 of aggregate.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:278}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why it\u2019s important:<\/span><\/b> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">The sub base layer provides both structural integrity and hydraulic capacity to store water.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:278}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How to prepare:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Once the 4\/20mm aggregate is in place, compact it <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">using a non-vibrating roller or plate compactor; this ensures that the void ratio of the material remains at 32% and avoids over compaction which can result in the aggregate being crushed.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-22454 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-450x253.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4-20x11.jpg 20w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-4.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Laying<\/strong><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> course: 6.3-2mm aggregate<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What to use:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> An angular crushed aggregate<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">with particles ranging from 6.3mm to 2mm.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why it\u2019s important:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> This layer creates a smooth surface for laying paving blocks while maintaining good drainage.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How to prepare:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Spread and screed the 6.3mm to 2mm aggregate evenly over the compacted 4\/20mm sub base. The evenness of this layer is crucial for proper block placement.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Paving blocks<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What to do:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Lay your chosen permeable pavers in the desired pattern.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How to compact:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Use a plate vibrator to ensure the blocks are securely positioned and aligned before moving on to the joint-filling stage.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Joint Filling: 6.3-2mm aggregate<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What to use:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> A<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ngular crushed aggregate with particles ranging from <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">6.3mm to 2mm.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why it\u2019s important:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Properly filled joints prevent block movement and ensure long-term stability of the surface.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How to fill:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Brush the grit into the joints until they are completely filled. After initial use, inspect the paving and top up any settled joints with more grit to maintain a fully filled surface.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How much to use:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> You\u2019ll need approximately 1 ton of grit for every 100m\u00b2 of 80mm paving.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Note<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: It\u2019s important to ensure that the permeable joints remain free from contamination during the completion of the project. Extra caution is needed during soft landscaping to prevent soil from entering the joints. To protect the surface, use an appropriate cover over the permeable paving while this type of work is being carried out. This simple step will help maintain the functionality of the system.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Benefits of correct aggregate selection for permeable paving\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Choosing the right type and size of aggregates for your permeable paving project is crucial. It\u2019s not just about creating a stable surface; it\u2019s about ensuring your paving performs well over time. Here are the key benefits of getting your aggregate selection right:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Improved drainage<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Using the right aggregates ensures that rainwater can flow through the paving system and into the ground below. This helps prevent water pooling on the surface, reduces the risk of flooding, and supports sustainable drainage solutions.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Long-lasting stability<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Properly graded and compacted aggregates create a strong foundation for your paving, making it durable enough to handle foot and vehicle traffic without sinking or shifting over time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Better load baring capacity\u00a0<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Using the correct aggregate sizes distributes weight evenly. This ensures that the paving can handle heavy loads without cracking or deforming.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Low maintenance<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Proper aggregate selection reduces the likelihood of issues like joint movement or surface damage, meaning fewer repairs and less maintenance over time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-22452 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"The correct aggregate for Permeable Paving\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-450x253.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8-20x11.jpg 20w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-8.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n\n    <section class=\"blogInArticleCTA\">\n        \n        <div class=\"blogInArticleCTA__Inner\">\n                            <div class=\"blogInArticleCTA__Content\">\n                                            <div class=\"blogInArticleCTA__Title\">\n                            <h4>Protect the environment with our SuDS-ready range<\/h4>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                <div class=\"blogInArticleCTA__Text\">\n                            <p>Tobermore\u2019s Hydropave permeable paving range allows you to create spectacular hard landscaping features with environmentally friendly products.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                    <\/div>\n                                        <div class=\"blogInArticleCTA__Button\">\n                    <a class=\"btn btn-primary btn-lg\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/product-category\/permeable-paving\/\" target=\"_blank\">View our permeable paving range!<\/a>\n                <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n\n            <\/section>\n\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tips for maintaining permeable paving and aggregates<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Proper maintenance of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/product-category\/permeable-paving\/\">permeable paving<\/a> aggregates is essential for keeping your paving system functioning effectively and looking its best. Here are some practical tips to help you care for your permeable paving:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Initial cleaning<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: After installation, allow the paved area to settle for a few weeks. Once settled, lightly hose down the surface to remove excess dirt or debris. Treat the area with a weed suppressant two or three times a year, depending on need, to prevent weeds from taking root.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Managing general dirt: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sweep the surface regularly to prevent the build up of debris that could clog the paving joints. Do not use high-pressure washers or vacuum sweepers as they can remove jointing grit or damage the surface. Always test a small area first if using a power washer.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If jointing grit is removed during cleaning, ensure it is replaced immediately to maintain the structural stability of the paving.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">How to clean clogged joints:<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> After several years use, joints may become clogged with detritus and it may be necessary to clean them. To clean clogged joints, remove the old jointing grit and debris with a high-pressure water jet. Reset any displaced pavers and replace damaged ones. Refill the joints with 6.3-2mm grit, sweeping it in with a stiff brush to ensure they are fully filled\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Maintaining permeable paving aggregates is key to preserving both their appearance and functionality.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> You can find all maintenance information in our <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hydropave Maintenance document<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. (link)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Final thoughts: Why aggregate selection matters for permeable paving<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The right choice of aggregates is not just a technical detail &#8211; it\u2019s the foundation of a successful, long-lasting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/product-category\/permeable-paving\/\">permeable paving system<\/a>. With the growing risk of flooding in urban areas, getting this right has never been more important. By ensuring the correct aggregate sizes are used for each layer, you create a system that efficiently manages stormwater, supports structural stability, and reduces maintenance over time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/product-category\/permeable-paving\/\">Permeable paving<\/a> isn\u2019t just about preventing surface water runoff; it\u2019s about contributing to a sustainable future. When designed and installed correctly, it can enhance urban resilience, protect properties from flooding, and improve the overall environmental performance of a project.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re planning a permeable paving project and need guidance on the right aggregates to use, our technical team is here to help. Contact us for expert advice and product recommendations to ensure your system meets both performance and sustainability standards.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-22455 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters.jpg\" alt=\"The correct aggregate for Permeable Paving\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-450x253.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.tobermore.co.uk\/professional\/wp-content\/uploads\/choosing-the-right-aggregate-for-permeable-paving-why-it-matters-20x11.jpg 20w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>One in four properties in England will be at risk of flooding by 2050, according&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":73,"featured_media":22449,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[971],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-22389","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-technical","tax_posts_products-permeable-paving"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Choosing the correct aggregate for Permeable Paving: Why it matters<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"This blog details the importance of choosing the correct aggregate for your next Permeable Paving installation.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" 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