Permeable Pavers – Automated Snowmelt Systems – Solar Panels – Rain Harvesting

 

 

As you may have noticed, I am striving to make my mark on the landscape industry in Grand Rapids, Michigan by encouraging sustainable landscapes in both soft and hardscapes.

Currently, I am working with a client to transform her property into a model of sustainability in East Grand Rapids.  Among the ideas on the drawing board are permeable pavers for a 4,200 square foot driveway heated via an electric or a hydronic snowmelt system, Urban Farming, edible landscaping, and elimination of excessive manicured lawns in favor of prairie gardens and other lawn alternatives. Additionally, we are looking at a rainwater harvesting system.

Use of permeable paving will keep stormwater from running off the driveway and into the city sewer system.  Water will drain between pavers into a filtering stone base where it will be able to percolate into the soil.  Another option we are considering is harvesting of stormwater from both the permeable driveway and roof system to be reused to irrigate the landscape.  This will decrease or eliminate the need to use city water which can be both expensive and wasteful of our natural resources.  There is no need to run rainwater through our extensive over-burdened sewer and wastewater filtration systems.

The biggest challenge is the power needed to run a snowmelt system for this large area.  The system needs approximately 600 amps.  Typically homes have only 200-400 amp service.  While it may be possible to upgrade the amperage, we would prefer to use a more sustainable option.  Luckily, the home and garage have significant space on their South facing roofs. So, we may be able to use solar power to power this system.

As we move along developing this project, I will post updates.