All About Resin Surfaces – Your Questions Answered

Resin bound paving has been used for quite a number of years for public footpaths, car parks and public squares, for instance. Increasingly, it is now also being used by residential and commercial property owners for driveways and private footpaths on properties, in part because it’s become more affordable. But what are resin surfaces, and what advantages do they have over paving, tarmacking or other types of materials used for driveways? Here, we look at the composition of resin surfaces and what makes them beneficial.

The Difference Between Resin Bound and Resin Bonded

The first thing to note is that you will see the terms ‘bound’ and ‘bonded’ used in relation to resin surfaces, and there is a difference. Resin bound paving is created by mixing aggregate stones with resin to form a flexible surface. In resin bonded surfacing, on the other hand, the resin is applied in a thin layer and then aggregate is scattered on top, ‘bonding’ with the resin.

The advantage of the bound process over the bonded one is that in the former, the aggregate is thoroughly mixed in with the resin, so the small stones are firmly kept in place. With resin bonding, the stones can become loose over time, creating unsightly bald patches in the surface, as well as detritus that needs to be brushed away.

Another benefit of bound over bonded resin surfaces is that the former is permeable, allowing rain and other water to soak through to the ground below. Resin bonded surfaces form an impermeable membrane on which, without suitable drainage solutions, water can stand and pool, eventually creating flood risk if left unresolved.

Further Advantages of Resin Bound Surfaces

• Because the aggregate is thoroughly mixed with the resin before being laid, it provides a completely bound, level surface. With no loose stones, this is ideal for accessibility for wheelchairs, pushchairs and so on. The process also means the surface is pretty low maintenance. It only needs sweeping clean of debris like leaves and dirt, and pressure washing once or twice a year to keep it looking as good as new.
• Driveways and pathways that are resin bound also have another benefit: the surface must meet British safety standards in terms of slip resistance, so there are less chances of slips, trips and falls where this is underfoot.
• Good quality resin bound surfaces also use resins that offer resistance to UV rays, ensuring the colour will not fade over time in direct sunlight. And speaking of colour, the resin can come in a wide range, meaning there’s plenty of choice for the client. Resin bound surfaces also resist other extremes of weather, so they won’t warp in warm temperatures or freeze in sub-zero ones either.

Looking for experts in driveways in Brighton, Burgess Hill, Hassocks or more generally across Sussex? At J Davies Building Ltd, we can tell you more about the benefits of resin bound driveways. We also carry out a range of groundworks services, including installation of cross overs and line painting for road or car park markings. Contact us today.