A Permeable Solution with Drivable Grass

By archives on Feb. 11, 2010 | Topics: Materials, Water Efficiency | 6 Comments

California-based Soil Retention is behind a product, Drivable Grass, that many of you may be interested in. The name is somewhat of a misnomer, because, as you will see below, the infill doesn’t have to be grass. It can be gravel of various kinds, too. Drivable Grass is a flexible product that can be used as a substitute for concrete and asphalt driveways, patios, parking lots, RV pads, boat ramps, and the like.

Drivable Grass installs almost exactly like a paver, so it’s enticing to DIYers. It’s available in the form of a square mat, 24″x24″x1.5″, and each mat weighs about 45 pounds. Currently, Soil Retention makes the Drivable Grass in a tan color (although you could stain it, if that’s your thing).

Charles & Hudson took a picture of a display at IBS 2010 showing the various infills one could use with the product. The porous construction of Drivable Grass also makes it a choice solution for increasing on-site storm water storage and decreasing off-site water runoff.

[+] Learn more about Drivable Grass.

Photo credits: Soil Retention.

Article tags: paver

About archives: This article was contributed by the founder of Jetson Green. With the arrival of new ownership in December 2012, Preston left Jetson Green to pursue other business opportunities. If you have questions or need assistance, contact tips@jetsongreen.com.

MrSteve007

Or you just do a open-cell concrete system like this, is not proprietary, is pretty cheap, and can be found at any hardware store.

http://www.motherearthnews.com/uploadedImages/articles/issues/2009-04-01/MEN-AM09-ghi_opencell.jpg

I did the same thing with a dual strip of cross-block pavers to the shop in my backyard. You can barely see it, and it takes a constant pounding from my truck. Putting in a strong and permeable underground base is key.
- Anonymous
  
  what is the concrete paver you used or i should ask for? if its far cheaper than the soilretention stuff then i am all for it. is it built in mats as well?
http://www.thechocolatechipwaffle.blogspot.com/ Terresa Wellborn

This is cool stuff. I live in Las Vegas and haven’t seen anything quite like this, although plenty of our neighbors have astro-turf type front grass. this is much prettier.
Grady Storms

What a great idea! I use a side strip for guest parking & this would make a huge difference in looks and upkeep. Love it!
Paul

can this product be used in Ontario, Canada. Does the grass wear off by driving on it or dry out. Where can I buy it and how much is it.
Poirierdesign

I saw this stuff at Home Depot in the garden department…….seeing on the shelf, it’s not very impressive. so I passed it up. But seeing the pictures of it installed…….it looks pretty good!

A Permeable Solution with Drivable Grass

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