Bob Vila Radio: Driveway Options

Like it or not, working on the car, washing the dog, rinsing the lawnmower and all the other work we do on our driveways will leave chemicals there. When it rains, driveway surfaces like asphalt, concrete and sealed pavers direct those chemicals with gallons of stormwater right into the street, the sewers, and ultimately our water supply.

Listen toBOB VILA ON DRIVEWAY OPTIONS, or read text below:

Now you can findpermeableversions of asphalt and concrete, interlocking pavers, bricks or cobbles with permeable grout, or the old standbys—crushed stone or shells. These all allow rainwater runoff to be naturally filtered into the ground.

减少你的车道区域和设计thoughtfully can also help control the pollution, erosion and flash flooding problems we’re seeing so frequently now. Crown the surface and plant rain gardens in the low areas to catch and filter the runoff. Always slope paved areas away from your house to keep the water out of your basement, and don’t add to the problem by draining your gutters onto the driveway.

Bob Vila Radiois a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.

For more on driveways and walkways, consider:

How To: Seal a Driveway
Create a Distinctive Driveway
Green Cleaning: Outdoors