Resin Bound Driveways and Surfaces – The facts
Resin Bound Driveways are a fast and extremely cost effective way to treat existing concrete patios, driveways and car parks, or to install a new one. If you have been thinking of installing a new driveway for a while now, or if you have decided to replace your existing concrete driveway, then there are a few things you should consider. A resin bound driveway could be the ideal solution for you, if you have issues with your existing driveway like crumbling and cracks or subsidence.
As the name “resin bound surfaces” suggests, an entirely resin bound surface is made up of three separate layers: a top surface (the bit you walk on), an under surface (sometimes called a sub base) and a resin binder that keeps the whole thing together. While resin bound surfaces have been around for decades, it’s only in the last decade or so that they’ve been adopted by the domestic market.
What is a resin bound driveway?
Resin bound is a type of surfacing and paving material that consists of a compound resin mixed with aggregates in a forced action action mixer. It creates a material that can be applied in a manner which becomes incredibly smooth. This makes for a really aesthetically pleasing finish which homeowners in Manchester are enjoying for their property paths, Driveways and patio construction projects.
The seamless finish and the ability to use different coloured aggregates means our customers have a wide choice on the finish. Making for an attractive finish on your drive or patio makes this a very popular choice.
Advantages and disadvantages
Because of the way it is mixed, which allows for small gaps between the aggregates, makes the surface completely permeable so drainage is fast and efficient. This means it is SUDS compliant – “Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. A ‘SUDS‘ (Sustainable urban drainage system) compliant surface is any surface in which water is allowed to drain through to natural ground or directed directly into a installed soak-away or swale.”
A permeable driveway will prevent water from forming puddles on the drive or patio making the entrance and use of your outside areas far more versatile for our lovely Manchester weather! This passing of water into the ground would also help out in flood situations in city and village dwellings.
- Looks Fantastic
- Very easy to maintain
- Resistant to adverse weather
- Long lasting and does not alter in appearance
- Provide a natural drainage to your outdoor area
- No planning consent required from local authorities
How is it made?
Resin is a classification given to a liquid organic compound made up of two parts. When the two parts are combined it creates a chemical process which binds the molecules. This creates the hardening of the liquid producing a solid durable plastic material.
When this is mixed with aggregates like fine gravel, stone or marble and spread over the ground it solidifies into a smooth permeable surface that is becoming the most popular landscaping surface in Newcastle and the rest of the UK.
A cold mix process is used insuring that all the resin and aggregate is thoroughly mixed together. Each of the tiny stones contained in the mix will be covered which is why it creates such a durable paving experience. This also creates the small tiny voids in-between each stone that allows the passing of water and the permeable quality we have discussed.
History of resin bound paving and surfacing
These types of landscape surfacing was first introduced to the UK in the early 1990’s but really only used in the commercial sector in large building projects. In more recent times the technology of resins development has improved and become less expensive. The price of aggregates has also come down dramatically in the last 10 years making it a much more viable option for homeowners and property developers.
Final Thoughts
In our opinion the versatility and practical nature of resin bound patios and paths in Manchester makes it a very good choice for your new paving project. We can provide testimonies from delighted customers who have had our experienced team of builders create the perfect groundworks for them.
If you have any questions or would like to have your property assessed for suitability then please do give us a call and we can provide some friendly advice.
