11 Landscape Drainage Solutions for 2024

Landscape drainage is an integral part of creating an effective and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space. Without an efficient drainage system, water can pool and cause damage to your landscape and even the structural integrity of your home. Therefore, landscape drainage is not merely an option, but a necessity.

In this article, we’ll explore a variety of landscape drainage solutions, including the slot drain system, gravel permeable pavers, and grass permeable pavers.

The Importance of Landscape Drainage

Proper landscape drainage is crucial to maintaining a thriving outdoor environment. Without it, there’s a risk of excess water accumulating, which could result in several issues potentially leading to reduced property value, and damage:

• Soil erosion
• Poor drainage
• Water accumulation
• Basement flooding

Last but not least, proper drainage plays an integral role in maintaining the health of plants and lawns. When the soil becomes waterlogged, it can hinder the plants’ ability to absorb nutrients and oxygen, and result in stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or even plant death..

11 Landscape Drainage Solutions

A variety of landscape drainage solutions are available, each suited to different needs and environments:

1. Swales

Swales are channels with a trapezoidal shape that are dug in order to divert stormwater overflow away from the home. They help slow down the runoff and allow it to naturally soak into the soil. Usually, swales are found at property boundaries or natural grades and they are often planted with vegetation specifically chosen to decrease erosion, filter pollutants from the stormwater, and improve the appearance of the area.

It’s important to construct the swales with the appropriate slope and with plants that encourage filtration and removal of pollutants.

2. Drains

To prevent surface water from accumulating near the foundation, drains can be set up to collect and steer it away. One example is the installation of underground drains, commonly called French drains, beneath grass, stone, or mulch within areas where water needs to be drained away to avoid pooling.

3. Site Grading

Properly grading the site can help control stormwater runoff and avoid soil saturation near the foundation. It’s important to ensure that the ground around the house is sloped away from the house to channel runoff away from the foundation, keep basements or crawl spaces dry, and prevent water from seeping into the building interior and causing moisture issues.

4. Rain Gardens and Bioretention Swales

To slow down stormwater runoff, ‘source’ solutions such as rain gardens and bioretention swales can be used. These measures help absorb runoff, promote ground infiltration, and decrease the amount of stormwater that enters the public drainage system. The choice of plants, such as grasses, prairie plants, or shrubs, can affect how much water is absorbed and at what rate.

5. Slot Drain Systems

Slot drain systems are a form of linear drainage that can handle anything from water to chemicals. They are more visually appealing as they are designed to blend with the landscape and provide effective drainage without the need for grates. Slot drain systems are an effective way to manage water runoff.

They are unobtrusive, aesthetically pleasing, and they are made to efficiently channel water away from the landscape. A slot drain system is particularly beneficial in flat landscapes where water tends to pool.

6. Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers, such as those offered by TRUEGRID, are an excellent solution for managing landscape drainage. Permeable pavers allow rainwater to pass through their surface and percolate into the ground below, to reduce runoff and erosion. They can be filled with gravel or grass, and allow for aesthetic customization to fit any landscape design.

7. Retention Tanks/Ponds

Retention tanks or retention ponds are designed to store rainwater temporarily during peak rainfall events, and then slowly release it back into the drainage system or environment. This reduces the risk of flooding and pressure on the drainage system.

8. Green Roofs

Green roofs are roofs covered with vegetation and a growing medium. They absorb rainwater, provide insulation, and create a habitat for wildlife. If you have a flat roof, consider creating a green roof. This setup involves planting vegetation on your roof, which helps to absorb rainwater, reduce runoff, and provide insulation.

9. Aerate Lawns

Lawn aeration is an effective method of landscape drainage control that serves a dual purpose of lawn maintenance and yard drainage. The process of lawn aeration is primarily facilitated by a device known as a lawn aerator. The aerator pulls up plugs of grass and soil, and leaves holes in the ground that permit air, water, and nutrients to access the roots.

The plugs left on the surface of the lawn break down over time, and contribute organic matter to the soil. The holes created through aeration form channels that guide water deeper into the soil, rather than allowing it to pool on the surface.

10. Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are used to capture rainwater from roofs and prevent it from becoming runoff. Runoff water often contains pollutants such as soil, fertilizers, pesticides, trash, road salts, and chemicals that can harm water bodies and aquatic organisms. By reducing the amount of runoff, rain barrels help protect waterways and aquatic life from these pollutants.

Rain barrels come in different sizes and can be joined together to capture more rainwater for bigger buildings.

11. Vegetated Filter Strips

These are areas of native shrubs or trees planted in the path of runoff. They help slow down and absorb the water, to help reduce the overall runoff volume.

Gravel and Grass Permeable Pavers

TRUEGRID offers two installation methods for their permeable pavers – gravel infill and grass infill/reinforcement.

Gravel Permeable Pavers

Gravel permeable pavers are a popular choice for driveways and parking spaces. They provide excellent stability and drainage while also maintaining a natural aesthetic. The gaps between the pavers are filled with gravel to provide a durable surface that can support heavy loads, and yet allow water to permeate.

Grass Permeable Pavers

Grass permeable pavers are a more green and eco-friendly option. They are ideal for lawns and garden paths where aesthetics are as important as functionality. Grass permeable pavers are designed to support grass growth while still offering superior drainage capabilities.

Choose TRUEGRID for Your Paver Needs

Choosing the right drainage solution for your landscape ensures its long-term health and beauty. TRUEGRID permeable pavers, whether gravel or grass, are a sustainable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution to landscape drainage. Our pavers are designed to handle heavy loads and intense weather conditions while still promoting excellent water management.

We offer reliable, effective, and eco-friendly landscape drainage solutions. To learn more about how TRUEGRID can transform your outdoor space, contact us today for more information and receive a free estimate!

Are you looking for a reliable and sustainable solution to your paving needs? Look no further than ground stabilization grids. Ground stabilization grids are engineered structures made of recycled high-density polyethylene, designed to provide stability and strength to surfaces like parking lots and driveways. Advanced solutions utilizing these grids that can withstand varying amounts of weight, makes them versatile for many applications.

What is a Ground Stabilization Grid?

Ground stabilization grids are modern solutions that are used in construction and landscaping to improve the strength and durability of surfaces. They are eco-friendly because they are made from recycled high-density polyethylene, a type of plastic material. They can withstand different weights, which makes them suitable for various purposes. Due to their numerous advantages and versatility, they are becoming a popular option in many industries.

Why is Ground Stabilization Desirable?

Ground stabilization is a crucial element in many construction and civil engineering projects, and it plays a significant role for a variety of reasons:

Improves Soil Strength

Ground stabilization enhances the bearing capacity and shear strength of the soil. It’s particularly critical when constructing structures on weak soil. The enhanced strength allows the soil to support heavier loads and prevents the sinking or shifting of structures over time.

Prevents Erosion

Stabilizing the ground helps to prevent soil erosion caused by wind, water, or human activities. It secures the soil particles, and makes it more difficult for them to be swept away. This is particularly important in areas prone to heavy rains or high winds.

Reduces Dust

In dry and arid regions, ground stabilization can minimize dust and airborne particulates, to improve air quality and visibility.

Infrastructure Development

For infrastructures like roads, pavements, and parking lots, ground stabilization ensures a smooth, durable, and low-maintenance surface. It reduces the occurrence of potholes, cracks, and other common road issues.

Environmental Protection

Ground stabilization helps to protect the environment by reducing runoff, which can carry pollutants into water bodies. Some ground stabilization methods, like permeable pavers, allow water to infiltrate the ground, to help reduce the risk of surface water flooding and promote natural water cycles.

Economic Efficiency

Ground stabilization can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. It reduces maintenance needs, prevents costly repairs due to failures from unstable soil, and increases the lifespan of structures and infrastructures.

Applications of Ground Stabilization Grids

Parking Lots and Driveways

One common use of ground stabilization grids is in the creation of parking lots and driveways. They are a robust, long-lasting solution for these high-traffic areas. With the ability to resist rutting, erosion, and instability, ground stabilization grids help ensure a smooth and reliable surface for all types of vehicles and on all types of terrain – even grass and gravel.

TRUEGRID Solutions for Gravel and Grass

TRUEGRID PRO LITE and PRO PLUS pavers come highly recommended for ground stabilization applications, particularly when utilizing grass or gravel as the finished surface. They are an innovative, eco-friendly solution for managing rainwater runoff while also enhancing the aesthetics of any landscape or construction project. The unique design allows for natural drainage, to help eliminate issues like puddling and erosion, and ensure a stable, durable surface.

TRUEGRID PRO LITE Residential Pavers

TRUEGRID PRO LITE Pavers are strong enough for cars and trucks, but they are also suitable for pedestrian and bike use, and can be used on grass or gravel surfaces. They are known for their durability, flexibility, and ability to perform well in all weather conditions and soil types.

Grass Applications of TRUEGRID PRO LITE

When used in grass applications, TRUEGRID PRO LITE pavers serve as a stabilizer to prevent ruts, mud, and erosion. PRO LITE pavers are specifically praised for their performance on slopes, for superior grip and stability in such conditions, thereby making them an excellent choice for areas with variable terrain. PRO LITE is perfect for creating grass-paved surfaces in areas such as fire lanes, overflow parking, event centers, or common spaces where light traffic is expected.

Gravel Applications of TRUEGRID PRO LITE

In the same way that it performs on grass, PRO LITE acts as a ground stabilizer when used with gravel. Its main purpose is to prevent the gravel from compacting, which in turn, helps maintain permeability to rainwater and reduces the risk of flooding. This function is particularly useful in driveways, parking lots, walkways, and similar areas prone to high traffic.

TRUEGRID PRO PLUS Commercial Pavers

PRO PLUS Commercial Pavers are the leading permeable pavers in the paving industry, designed for heavy use in commercial parking lots and various other applications, characterized by their strength, 100% permeability, and almost maintenance-free nature.

TRUEGRID PRO PLUS Applications with Grass

TRUEGRID PRO PLUS pavers are beneficial for grass in commercial settings because of their 100% permeability, which allows water and nutrients to reach the roots of the grass, to promote healthy growth.

PRO PLUS pavers provide ground stabilization to prevent erosion, and their superior design is capable of handling heavy use while also maintaining a natural aesthetic. It’s perfect for applications such as parks, golf courses, or any grassy area that requires reinforcement without losing the green aesthetic.

PRO PLUS is designed to provide a strong, durable surface that minimizes issues like potholes or cracks typically found in traditional paved surfaces.

TRUEGRID PRO PLUS Applications with Gravel

When it comes to gravel stabilization, TRUEGRID PRO PLUS truly excels.

The pavers can be filled with gravel to create a firm, stable, and permeable pavement. This is an excellent solution for driveways, parking lots, and other areas that require sturdy surfaces capable of supporting heavy vehicles.

PRO PLUS on gravel provides a surface that absorbs stormwater and leaves zero runoff. This helps to eliminate common issues like puddles and prevents the gravel from shifting or displacing, thus reducing the need for constant maintenance.

Discover Innovative Ground Stabilization Solutions from TRUEGRID

Experience the durability and strength of TRUEGRID ground stabilization grids firsthand. TRUEGRID products are known for their innovative design, superior compression strength, and eco-friendly benefits.

TRUEGRID pavers are the perfect choice for any project that requires reliable and long-lasting protection against erosion, mud, rutting, and flooding.

Contact us today for more information and a free estimate!

When it comes to hardscaping your outdoor space, the decision between brick and concrete pavers can seem overwhelming. Both materials have their unique advantages and can significantly impact the aesthetic and functionality of your space.

However, another option might be a more suitable solution: TRUEGRID permeable pavers. This article delves into the pros and cons of each option to guide your selection process.

Comparing Brick and Concrete Pavers

Brick Pavers

Brick pavers are produced from clay and/or shale, and they undergo firing in a kiln at super high temperatures in comparison to other common bricks. This makes them more durable and capable of withstanding heavy loads. As a result of the high temperature, the pavers undergo vitrification, which changes their texture and makes them nonporous, meaning they cannot retain water.

The Pros:

The unique look and texture that brick pavers offer adds a classic, timeless appeal to any outdoor space. Brick pavers are also highly durable and require minimal maintenance over time. Textured brick pavers are slip-resistant and can be used in areas that get wet or have a lot of foot traffic.

The Cons:

While brick pavers are known for being highly durable, they are also heavier than other alternatives and require more effort during the installation process. Additionally, brick pavers can be quite expensive to purchase and install.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are a type of hardscape material commonly used in outdoor spaces. They are made by mixing gravel, sand, cement, and a coloring agent into a dry mix, which is then placed into molds using conveyor belts. The concrete is compressed into the mold using a press that vibrates and the minimal amount of water within the mixture sets the cement.

The Pros:

One of the advantages of concrete pavers is that they are lightweight compared to brick pavers, which makes them easier to install. They also come in a variety of colors and shapes, which allows you to create unique designs with fewer pieces. Concrete pavers are also relatively inexpensive compared to other paver options.

The Cons:

While concrete pavers are durable, they can crack or become damaged over time due to wear and tear from the elements or heavy traffic. Concrete pavers also require more maintenance over time to keep them looking their best.

Introducing TRUEGRID Permeable Pavers

While both brick and concrete pavers have their merits, TRUEGRID permeable pavers are the superior solution for sustainable paving. TRUEGRID pavers are eco-friendly, durable, and require less maintenance compared to traditional pavers.

TRUEGRID Pro Lite Pavers

PRO LITE pavers are a durable and cost-effective permeable paver designed for moderate vehicular load, pedestrian, and bike applications. This product boasts superior compression strength and flexibility, so it is ideal for use in various settings, including gravel or grass overflow parking lots, driveways, fire lanes, and numerous other paving applications. It has a patented design that is environmentally-friendly, with 100% post-consumer recycled HDPE and the ability to be filled with either grass or gravel.

The TRUEGRID PRO LITE paver system is also environmentally-conscious. It helps to reduce runoff and mitigate flood risk by allowing rainwater to permeate through its structure and be detained in the subbase. This quality can earn you 100% pervious cover credit, an advantage over traditional asphalt or concrete solutions. Its permeable nature also contributes to a more natural aesthetic that protects and allows vegetation to thrive.

Build an Invisible Driveway in the Grass

TRUEGRID ROOT® is an innovative grass pavement option that is powerful and the quickest in the world to install. What sets it apart is that it doesn’t require any excavation. The pavers can be installed over existing grass, and are ready for instant use.

ROOT® Pavers have an advanced patented design, known for grass stabilization without digging up the surface. The process is simple: the ROOT® pavers, equipped with X-Anchors and Gripper Teeth, are placed on the grass area, which is thoroughly wet. After pressing the ROOT® pavers into the grass with a heavy roller, no further steps are necessary.

You can instantly park and drive on the newly stabilized grass pavement without worrying about ruts. ROOT® pavers provide numerous benefits. They’re the least expensive paving option for a natural grass surface without ruts, and they don’t require permits or result in land loss due to impervious cover. TRUEGRID pavers:

• Have a lifespan of 60 years
• Are made from 100%-recycled plastic
• Need little to no maintenance
• Made in the USA

They are not only practical but versatile, suitable for a wide range of applications, such as grass parking for cars and trucks, festival site protection, light aircraft runways and taxiways, event centers, paths and trails, slope and scour protection, and RV and boat storage and access. All while ensuring 100% grass coverage, which makes them both strong, and beautiful.

Experience the Strength and Beauty of TRUEGRID Pavers

If you’re looking for a sustainable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing solution for your outdoor paving needs, look no further than the complete line of Made in the USA TRUEGRID pavers. Thanks to our patented design, TRUEGRID permeable pavers offer superior performance compared to traditional brick and concrete pavers. They can be used in a variety of applications and require minimal maintenance.

Explore the possibilities with TRUEGRID and experience the strength and beauty of their pioneering products. Contact us today for a free estimate!

The driveway apron is an important part of any home or commercial property. It serves as the transition between the street and the driveway, and provides a smooth surface for vehicles to travel on to protect your property from potential damage. Traditional concrete aprons are not without their problems – potholes, puddles, and cracks can all be common issues with these surfaces.

That’s why many homeowners are now turning to alternative options such as TRUEGRID permeable pavers for their driveways. In this article we will explore how TRUEGRID pavers provide superior water management capabilities while also offering design customization options that make them great for grass driveways too!

What is a Driveway Apron?

The section of the driveway that is nearest to the road is called the driveway apron or approach. It is usually constructed with the same material as the rest of the driveway. The main function of the driveway apron is to provide a seamless connection between the street and the driveway, to allow vehicles to enter and exit smoothly.

The apron typically spans from eight to 15 feet in length and matches the width of the driveway. If there are sidewalks, the apron extends to the edge of the closest sidewalk to the house. The apron and driveway connect seamlessly, which can make it challenging to differentiate between the two.

Materials used for driveway aprons can vary, but the most common are:

• Concrete
• Asphalt
• Pavers

Some Common Issues with Concrete Driveways/Aprons

Concrete driveway aprons, which are the portion of the driveway closest to the road, can present a variety of common issues or problems:

Cracking

Concrete can crack due to a variety of factors such as weather conditions (freeze-thaw cycles), the weight of vehicles, poor installation practices, or inadequate thickness. Cracks can allow water to seep into the concrete, which can potentially cause further damage.

Spalling or Surface Deterioration

This happens when the top layer of the concrete starts to flake off or peel away. This can be due to exposure to deicing salts, freeze-thaw cycles, or an improperly mixed or applied concrete surface.

Settlement/Sinking

This is usually caused by a poorly compacted or insufficiently prepared base. Over time, the soil beneath the concrete may settle, and cause the apron to sink. This can lead to uneven surfaces and potential water pooling.

Discoloration

Concrete can become discolored over time due to various factors including weathering, staining from vehicles, or inconsistencies in the mix of the concrete.

Erosion

If the apron isn’t properly sloped to drain water into the gutter, water can erode the concrete over time. This can lead to cracking and other forms of damage.

Regulatory Non-Compliance

As the aprons are regulated by local building codes, they must conform to certain standards regarding dimensions, slope, materials, and thickness. If these regulations aren’t followed, the homeowner may face fines or the need for costly rework.

Cost

Depending on the local rates, materials used, and whether professional installation is required, the cost of repairing or replacing a concrete driveway apron can be high.

Maintenance

Homeowners may be responsible for maintaining the apron portion of their driveway, including removing snow and repairing any damage. Failure to do so could result in fines or the city carrying out the repairs and billing the homeowner.

Addressing these common issues usually requires the expertise of a professional contractor. Homeowners who decide to tackle the project themselves must carefully adhere to local building regulations and prepare the project area thoroughly to ensure a long-lasting, high-quality result.

TRUEGRID Permeable Pavers: An Eco-Friendly Solution

TRUEGRID pavers are a sustainable and unique paving solution that can absorb stormwater without any runoff, which helps eliminate problems like potholes, puddles, and cracks. They are also modular, for easy and fast installation, which makes them a great choice for a wide range of projects.

Their permeability allows them to function as a natural water filter, an environmentally-friendly paving solution that conserves land and reduces costs when compared to traditional concrete and asphalt. The use of TRUEGRID permeable pavers also eliminates the need for detention ponds, which are typically required for managing stormwater runoff, hence reducing instances of flooding.

TRUEGRID pavers function well in all types of climates and soils. They offer a 100% permeable cover with an impressive 1000+ inches/hour infiltration rate and a 0.0 – 0.05 runoff coefficient.

The Benefits of a TRUEGRID Driveway

TRUEGRID driveways are a sustainable and functional alternative to traditional concrete or asphalt driveways. They provide several benefits, some of which are:

• Aesthetic
• Environmental
• Practical

Aesthetic Benefits

When used to create grass driveways, TRUEGRID adds an element of natural beauty that concrete or asphalt driveways lack. By integrating vegetation, they can contribute to a more serene and visually pleasing environment, for a unique way to incorporate greenery into an area typically void of nature. They also offer the flexibility to shape around existing plants, trees, and natural elements, in order to preserve the pre-existing ecosystem of a landscape.

Environmental Benefits

Grass driveways made with TRUEGRID pavers are an environmentally friendly option. They allow stormwater runoff to be absorbed back into the ground, which filters out pollutants and rehydrates the soil. This natural drainage system can help prevent localized flooding, which is a common issue with traditional driveway materials that can’t absorb water.

In addition, TRUEGRID driveways help maintain a healthy local ecosystem by keeping the soil moisture balanced. They also have a sub-base layer that helps hold water and reduces the risk of flooding. This water management feature may boost property value and qualify for tax benefits related to pervious cover in specific locations.

Practical Benefits

From a practical standpoint, TRUEGRID driveways have several advantages over traditional paved driveways.

They provide a stable surface that remains solid even during heavy rain and can be used to stabilize front lawns, backyards, and other muddy areas. This can prevent ruts in the lawn caused by cars or heavy foot traffic and make the surface safer to traverse in wet conditions.

Additionally, the installation of TRUEGRID driveways is relatively simple and quick compared to traditional concrete installations, which require curing time and perfect weather conditions. The plastic grids of the TRUEGRID system interlock like building blocks, for immediate use once installed.

Enhance Your Property with a Low-Maintenance TRUEGRID Driveway

Take the first step toward an improved driveway experience with the TRUEGRID permeable paver system. Whether your application is residential, or commercial, we have a driveway solution for every application.

Invest in your property today and enjoy a low-maintenance, beautiful driveway that adds value to your property and withstands the test of time. Contact us today for a free estimate!