PaveDrain Sucks

I admit, I have actually put a bid together to install PaveDrain. I was thinking that the first-hand experience would give me ultimate proof of its complete and utter failure as a pavement system (that is, if, once I had the job, I was unable to convince the winning general contractor and the City of Waconia to change the plan and install PICP instead).

But mine eyes have seen the inglorious results. I have visited several job sites and they all failed miserably.

First, without true interlock, there is no strength, no teamwork on the surface. It doesn't matter how many layers of fabric, or passes with the roller, if the units do not interlock, you will have major rutting, (or a bunch of individuals going their own way).

Furthermore, as depicted in the photo above, without the PSI of a regulated concrete paver (PaveDrain has a PSI similar to that of a standard cinder block), the surface of the "pavers" will begin to crack and deteriorate almost immediately--even if you apply thousands of dollars worth of sealer.

And on that note, sadly, in tune with all the other bad ideas that have contributed to the failure of the human race, this one is also about money. Not only does PaveDrain suck, but it is extremely expensive and involves too much plastic (see future post). In fact, the PaveDrain system costs upwards of 4X as much as a PICP system, or permeable interlocking concrete pavement.

And yes, I know that PICP requires maintenance and a little TLC from time to time, but at least it works.