A new study by the RMC Research & Education Foundation indicates that pervious concrete has performed well in freeze-thaw conditions – a finding that could lead to the material’s expanded use in northern climates.

Pervious concrete reduces drainage issues in parking lots, sidewalks, decks and patios because water is able to seep through it. While the use of pervious concrete has consistently increased in the southern United States, concerns about its ability to perform in cold and freezing conditions have limited its popularity in the North.

The RMC study, conducted over three years through Cleveland State University, is the first broad test of pervious concrete’s performance in colder regions.

“This latest study should provide assurance that it can be successfully placed in cold climates, resulting in safer parking lots and roadways with reduced icy conditions as melting snow runs through the pavement rather than re-freezing on it,” said RMC Research & Education Foundation Chairman Dominique Calabrese.

The full report is available for download from the foundation’s website at www.rmc-foundation.org where information on the foundation’s other pervious concrete, research and educational projects may also be found.