Evaluation of Cleaning Methods for Restoring Water Drainage Through Pervious Concrete Pavement

Abstract

The objective of this research was to compare the efficacy of vacuuming, power blowing, and pressure washing for cleaning of a clogged pervious concrete pavement at a site in northern Utah. The results indicate that, for conditions similar to those evaluated, only pressure washing in conjunction with vacuuming can successfully clean clogged pervious concrete. In this research, an average water infiltration rate of 127 in./hour was achieved after cleaning. While the use of pervious concrete has many advantages, the cost of regularly cleaning pervious concrete pavement should be weighed against the cost of installing and maintaining a traditional detention basin for storm water management.