FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
The 2026 MCAA Annual Online Auction is Now Open ↗

Permeable Design Pro Software Version 2.0

Words: Jessica RobinsonOriginally released in 2008 by the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI), Permeable Design Pro Software v2.0 for permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) now features CAD output of design solutions. The program generates time-saving PICP cross section drawings with base and subbase thicknesses for use in project drawings. The CAD drawings illustrate calculated hydrologic and structural requirements from user-designated rainfall events, runoff flows from contiguous surfaces, traffic loads, underdrains and soil subgrade characterizations. Permeable Design Pro v2.0 enables users to quickly evaluate PICP solutions for stormwater management for pedestrian areas, parking lots, alleys and streets.

PDPUpon calculating the subbase thickness for water storage and anticipated traffic loads, the program automatically selects the thicker of the two subbase thickness solutions and presents the PICP cross section as a CAD drawing. Based on user inputs, drawing outputs can include an underdrain, geotextile, and an impermeable liner if no infiltration into the soil subgrade is desired. The cross section drawing also specifies the height of the underdrain outlet as determined by the user to detain water for infiltration. The user can also directly modify the drawing cross section output from within the program. Items that can be changed include the subbase thickness, underdrain pipe diameter, the presence or absence of geotextile, and an impermeable liner. The CAD drawing can be saved as a DWG file.

Other program modifications include the minimum surface infiltration required for designs now set at 100 inches/hour. PICP has substantially higher initial surface infiltration rates, but this value is used as a starting point to facilitate intake of all rainfall and runoff from adjacent surfaces into low or no slope PICP. The user can increase this infiltration value in the program based on manufacturer-supplied surface infiltration data.

The new software version can now be instantly downloaded from www.permeabledesignpro.com for a 30-day free trial period. After the 30-day trial period has expired, users can purchase a license key to register and activate the software to continue using it.
 0
Is Contact with Wet Mortar or Grout Dangerous?
April 2026

In the world of masonry, few materials are as common as mortar and grout. Whether you are laying brick, concrete masonry units (CMU), or pouring grout into masonry walls, wet cement and mortar are constant companions. However, beneath their utility lies a

Zach Everett
Technical Talks
Read More
The Importance of Instructor Support
April 2026

Whether you are a new or veteran masonry instructor, we all need support throughout our careers. We can never stop learning, and keeping up with ever-changing technology, materials, and installation techniques can be overwhelming alongside the everyday pr

Curtis Hoover
Resources
Read More
Vibing Masonry #11: Innovative Concrete Masonry Technologies in Healthcare Design
April 2026

In the high-stakes environment of healthcare design, every material choice is a clinical decision. Architects, engineers, and facility administrators are tasked with creating spaces that are not only resilient and code-compliant but also conducive to heal

Steve Blye
Technical Talks
Read More
Why Termination Bars Still Matter: A Practical Look at Long‑Term Flashing Performance
April 2026

In recent discussions across the masonry industry, I have heard termination bars described as “old school.” The implication is that with modern materials, primerless peel-and-stick flashings, advanced sealants, and structural insulated sheathing, mechanic

Linda Potter
Technical Talks
Read More