Alliance Designer Products · Sold by Polymeric Sand Store
Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate
High strength granite aggregate graded to ASTM No. 9 for permeable paver joints and bedding. Maximizes drainage, stabilizes pavers, and manages stormwater runoff.
What Is Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate?
Important: Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is for permeable paver systems only. It does not lock or bond pavers together. If you need a jointing material that bonds and locks paver joints, see our polymeric sand products. A minimum finished surface slope of 1 percent and subgrade slope of 0.5 percent is required for proper drainage performance.
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is in a completely different category from polymeric sand. It is not a jointing sand at all. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is a calibrated, fractured high strength granite aggregate graded to meet ASTM No. 9 specifications for permeable paver joint units. Its purpose is to allow water to drain freely through paver joints rather than locking them solid, making it the essential jointing material for any permeable paver system designed for stormwater management.
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock serves a dual purpose. It functions as both the jointing material between permeable pavers and as the bedding course material that supports the pavers from below. The calibrated ASTM No. 9 gradation ensures consistent particle size that maximizes water infiltration while providing the stability needed to keep pavers locked in place under vehicular and pedestrian loads.
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is the Alliance-specified aggregate for all permeable interlocking concrete paver systems requiring ASTM No. 9 stone in the joints and bedding course.
Not sure if Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is the right product for your project? Call or text us 24/7 at (856) 418-4895 and we will help you confirm whether a permeable system or a bonded polymeric sand joint is the right solution for your application.
Granite Grey
Is Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Aggregate the Right Product for Your Project?
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is for permeable paver systems designed to drain water through the joint. If you want paver joints that are bonded, weed resistant, and locked solid, you need a polymeric sand product instead. Not sure which to choose? Call or text us at (856) 418-4895.
Permeable interlocking concrete paver driveways Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is the specified ASTM No. 9 aggregate for permeable paver driveways designed to allow stormwater to infiltrate through the joint and base rather than running off the surface.
Permeable paver patios and walkways Alliance Gator Aqua Rock provides the open joint structure needed for permeable patio and walkway installations where water infiltration is required or preferred for drainage and environmental compliance.
Commercial stormwater management paving systems Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is approved for commercial and institutional permeable paving applications where local codes require on-site stormwater infiltration or reduced runoff rates.
Permeable paver bedding course Alliance Gator Aqua Rock functions as both the jointing material and the bedding course in permeable paver base systems. The calibrated ASTM No. 9 gradation provides the stability and open void structure required for proper bedding and drainage layer performance.
Existing natural stone patios needing improved drainage Alliance Gator Aqua Rock can be swept into the open joints of existing natural stone patios to improve water infiltration, reduce surface runoff, and provide a clean, finished appearance without locking joints solid.
Not for standard bonded paver joints Alliance Gator Aqua Rock does not bond, lock, or resist weeds the way polymeric sand does. For standard paver installations where bonded joints are required, see our polymeric sand products.
What Makes Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Different from Regular Pea Gravel or Crushed Stone?
Graded to ASTM No. 9 specification Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is calibrated to meet ASTM No. 9 requirements specifically for permeable paver joint units. This precise gradation ensures consistent particle size across every bag, uniform void structure for reliable water infiltration, and compatibility with ICPI permeable paver base specifications.
Fractured high strength granite Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is made from angular fractured granite, not rounded pea gravel. The angular fractures interlock under compaction to stabilize the paver surface, while the open void structure between particles allows water to flow freely through the joint at high rates.
Dual function as jointing material and bedding course Alliance Gator Aqua Rock performs two jobs in one product. The same ASTM No. 9 stone fills the paver joints above and forms the open graded bedding course below, simplifying specification and ensuring material compatibility throughout the permeable paver section.
Maximizes stormwater infiltration rates Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver systems are engineered to reduce surface water runoff rates and volumes, helping properties meet local stormwater management requirements and green building standards.
Long term durability from high strength granite Alliance Gator Aqua Rock granite aggregate resists weathering, freeze thaw cycles, and degradation over time. The high strength stone maintains its gradation and void structure for the long term performance of the permeable paver system.
Simple installation with no water activation Unlike polymeric sands, Alliance Gator Aqua Rock requires no water activation, no curing time, and no special weather conditions. Sweep it into the joints, compact, and the installation is complete.
What Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Aggregate Helps Prevent
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock addresses a different set of problems than polymeric sand. Rather than locking joints, it keeps them open and functioning as part of a drainage system. Here is what a properly installed Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver system helps prevent:
Surface water runoff and pooling Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver systems allow rainwater to drain through the joints and base layers rather than running off the surface. This eliminates or significantly reduces puddles, sheet flow, and surface flooding on paved areas.
Surface erosion from rain and stormwater Alliance Gator Aqua Rock helps prevent surface erosion caused by heavy rain events by allowing water to infiltrate through the paved surface rather than concentrating into high velocity runoff flows that damage surrounding landscape areas.
Paver instability from freeze thaw heave Alliance Gator Aqua Rock high strength granite aggregate maintains its structure and gradation through repeated freeze thaw cycles, helping keep the permeable paver surface stable and level over multiple seasons.
Stormwater regulation non-compliance Many municipalities require permeable paving in commercial and residential development projects to manage stormwater on site. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver systems help properties meet these stormwater management regulations and green building certification requirements.
Premature joint material deterioration Unlike organic or polymeric jointing materials that can break down or wash out, Alliance Gator Aqua Rock granite aggregate is naturally inert and does not deteriorate over time. It maintains its function in the joint for the life of the permeable paver installation.
Note: Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver joints are open by design. They do not prevent weed growth the way polymeric sand does. Periodic maintenance to clear sediment and organic debris from the joints is required to maintain infiltration rates over time.
How Many Bags of Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Do You Need?
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock coverage depends on joint width, paver size, and how much is used in the bedding course versus the joints. The coverage figures below are for the jointing portion only, based on standard 60 mm tall pavers. Your project may require additional Alliance Gator Aqua Rock for the open graded bedding course.
Jointing coverage per 50 lb bag. 60 mm paver height
Narrow joints (up to 1/8")
Up to 25 ft²
Wide joints (up to 1/2")
~20 ft²
Joint width
Coverage per 50 lb bag (jointing only)
Narrow joints (up to 1/8")
Up to 25 sq ft
Wide joints (up to 1/2")
Approximately 20 sq ft
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock coverage figures are for jointing material only based on 60 mm paver height. Additional material will be required for the open graded bedding course. Coverage varies by joint width, paver size, and base design. Always order 15 percent extra. Source: Alliance Gator official TDS.
How to Install Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate
Always refer to the latest Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Technical Data Sheet (TDS) before installing. Permeable paver base systems must be engineered per project drainage requirements. Drain pipes, observation wells, overflow pipes, geotextile and impermeable liner (if applicable) must be in place before base and subbase placement.
Base requirements: Soil subgrade minimum slope of 0.5 percent. Finished pavement surface minimum slope of 1 percent. All drainage infrastructure must be in place before Alliance Gator Aqua Rock placement begins.
1
Prepare the permeable base system
Install the subbase and open graded base layers per your permeable paver system design and local drainage requirements. All drainage infrastructure must be in place. The Alliance Gator Aqua Rock bedding course layer goes on top of the open graded base, providing the setting bed into which the pavers are placed.
2
Set pavers into the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock bedding course
Place permeable interlocking concrete pavers into the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock bedding layer. Ensure pavers are properly spaced for the required joint width. The pavers should sit at the correct elevation with allowance for the compaction settlement that occurs in the next steps.
3
Sweep Alliance Gator Aqua Rock into joints
Pour Alliance Gator Aqua Rock onto the paver surface and use a hard bristle broom to sweep it into the joints in multiple directions, ensuring all joints are filled to the top of the paver. At this stage the joints should be slightly overfilled to allow for settlement during compaction.
4
Compact with a low amplitude plate compactor
Use a low amplitude vibratory plate compactor operating at 75 to 90 Hz with a minimum centrifugal compaction force of 4,000 lbs (18 kN). Make at least two passes over the entire paved area in different directions. This step sets the pavers into the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock bedding layer and consolidates the joint material.
Use a rubber pad or protective plate on the compactor to protect paver surfaces from scratching during compaction.
5
Top up joints and check final levels
After compaction, check joint levels. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints should be filled to within 3 mm (1/8 inch) from the top of the paver surface. Add or remove Alliance Gator Aqua Rock as needed to achieve the correct joint level. Sweep excess material off the paver surfaces.
Maintenance for Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Systems
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver systems require periodic maintenance to preserve their drainage function. Unlike bonded polymeric sand joints which need little attention once cured, Alliance Gator Aqua Rock open joints can become partially clogged with sediment, organic debris, and fine particles over time. Regular maintenance keeps the system performing at design capacity.
Annual inspection of drainage performance Check annually that the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver surface is still accepting water at a reasonable rate. If water is ponding or running off where it previously drained through, sediment accumulation in the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints is the likely cause.
High pressure washing to restore infiltration Use a pressure washer to flush sediment, fine particles, and organic debris out of the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints. Work in a consistent direction to push loosened material to one area for collection. This restores the open void structure and drainage capacity of the permeable system.
Vacuum sweeping for heavy sediment buildup In areas with heavy sediment load such as near construction sites or high traffic commercial areas, vacuum street sweeping equipment can extract compacted sediment from Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints more effectively than pressure washing alone.
Topping up Alliance Gator Aqua Rock after maintenance After pressure washing or vacuum sweeping, some Alliance Gator Aqua Rock material may be displaced or removed from the joints. Sweep additional Alliance Gator Aqua Rock into low joints and recompact lightly to restore the correct joint level of 3 mm below the paver surface.
Weed management in open joints Because Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints are open and not bonded, weeds can establish in the joints over time, especially in areas with organic debris accumulation. Remove weeds by hand or with a paver safe weed treatment. Do not use products that leave residue that could clog the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock void structure.
Technical Specifications: Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate
ApplicationPermeable paver joints and bedding course
Compatible systemsPermeable interlocking concrete paver systems
Bonding or locking actionNone. open permeable joint by design
Water activation requiredNo
Final joint level3 mm (1/8") below top of paver surface
Minimum subgrade slope0.5 percent
Minimum finished surface slope1 percent
Compactor requiredLow amplitude, 75 to 90 Hz, min 4,000 lb centrifugal force
Compactor passes requiredMinimum 2 passes
Coverage per 50 lb bag (jointing only)20 to 25 sq ft (60 mm paver)
Available size50 lb bag
ColorGranite Grey
ManufacturerAlliance Designer Products Inc.
All specifications sourced from the official Alliance Gator Technical Data Sheet (TDS). Always verify the latest TDS at AllianceGator.com before installation. Specifications are subject to change by the manufacturer.
Why Buy Alliance Gator Aqua Rock from Polymeric Sand Store?
Alliance makes excellent products and we carry them because we believe in them. Here is what you get when you order Alliance Gator Aqua Rock from Polymeric Sand Store.
Same day shipping on every order Order Alliance Gator Aqua Rock before 2 PM Eastern time and your order ships today. We ship to the continental United States every day.
Real expert advice available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Call or text (856) 418-4895 any time. Whether you need Alliance Gator Aqua Rock for a permeable driveway or need to know whether a permeable or bonded joint system is right for your project, we will help you get it right before you order.
Coverage estimation support Alliance Gator Aqua Rock quantities can be tricky to calculate when accounting for both jointing and bedding material. Call us and we will help you estimate the right amount before you order so you are not short on a job or over-ordering unnecessarily.
Full Alliance product line available We carry the complete Alliance product line including all polymeric sands, jointing materials, and specialty aggregates. If your project needs Alliance Gator Aqua Rock alongside other Alliance products, we can ship everything together.
30 day satisfaction guarantee If something is wrong with your order, contact us within 30 days and we will make it right. We accept returns on items that are unopened, unused, and in their original packaging. You can return the product for a full refund, or contact us for a pre-paid return label which will be deducted from your refund.
Frequently Asked Questions: Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock and polymeric sand serve completely different purposes. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is a permeable granite aggregate that keeps joints open so water can drain through the paved surface. It does not bond or lock joints. Polymeric sand is a polymer bonded jointing material that locks paver joints solid, resisting weeds, ants, and erosion. Use Alliance Gator Aqua Rock when you need a permeable paving system for stormwater management. Use polymeric sand when you need bonded joints that resist weeds, insects, and joint erosion. Not sure which is right for your project? Call us at (856) 418-4895.
No. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is an open permeable joint material that allows water, air, and unfortunately seeds to pass through the joint. Weed management is an ongoing maintenance requirement for permeable paver systems using Alliance Gator Aqua Rock. If weed prevention is a priority for your project, polymeric sand is a better choice for your joint type.
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock can be swept into standard paver joints as a temporary or low maintenance fill, but it will not bond, lock joints against movement, or resist weed growth the way polymeric sand does. For standard paver driveways, patios, and walkways where bonded joints are needed, polymeric sand is the correct product. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is specifically designed for engineered permeable paver systems.
ASTM No. 9 is a specific gradation standard that defines the particle size distribution for aggregate used in permeable paver joint units. Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is manufactured to meet this standard precisely. This matters because the correct gradation ensures consistent void space between particles for reliable water infiltration, adequate stability to support paver loads, and compatibility with permeable paver system specifications from ICPI and local engineers. Using off-spec aggregate instead of ASTM No. 9 can result in clogging, poor drainage, or instability.
Alliance Gator Aqua Rock permeable paver systems require periodic maintenance to restore drainage capacity as sediment accumulates in the joints. Inspect annually. Use pressure washing or vacuum sweeping to flush or extract sediment from the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock joints. After cleaning, top up any low joints with fresh Alliance Gator Aqua Rock and recompact lightly. In high sediment areas, more frequent cleaning may be needed. Avoid using sand or fine materials to fill joints as these will clog the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock void structure.
Orders for Alliance Gator Aqua Rock placed before 2 PM Eastern time ship the same day. We ship to homeowners and contractors across the continental United States. For questions about large volume orders, call or text us at (856) 418-4895.
Questions About Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Paver Aggregate?
Call or text us 24/7 at (856) 418-4895. We will help you confirm whether Alliance Gator Aqua Rock is the right product for your permeable paver project, estimate your material quantities, and get your order shipped the same day. Orders placed before 2 PM Eastern time ship today.
I have a blue stone patio (19 years old). There were weeds and moss growing between the stones. After power washing the blue stones and cleaning out the weeds and moss, I applied the Alliance Gator Aqua Rock Permeable Stone (ASTM No.9 Granite Stone) between my existing blue stones. Wow! My patio looks like new! The “Aqua Rock” not only looks fantastic, but provides a permeable area for rain water to get through. If you have a similar set-up with your patio or sidewalk, I highly recommend these stones. And, the Polymeric Sand Store is the place to get it.
