When looking at getting a resin driveway, you will likely have stumbled across two key terms: resin bonded and resin bound. You might be wondering what the difference is between a resin bonded and a resin bound surface, and which one best suits your driveway needs – well, look no further!
With help from Tony Roberts at Guardian Resin here’s everything that you need to know about resin bonded and resin bound surfaces.
What is the difference between resin bonded and resin bound surfacing?
Resin bonded and resin bound surfaces are similar, but they have key elements that separate them. Both can be used for outdoor areas, but their differences make them better equipped for different things.
A resin bound surface is made by mixing together aggregates with resin to form a completed mixture. Once combined, the resin bound mixture is poured onto the base surface. Then the resin bound system is finished with trowels to leave behind a flat, consistent and smooth surface. The resin bound surface is water-permeable and is slip resistant.
Alternatively, a resin bonded surface is formed using a scatter method. The resin is poured onto the base surface and then the loose gravel is poured on top of the resin. The loose gravel then bonds with the resin, and the end result is a resin bonded surface that is impermeable to water and has a great textured finish. Any loose gravel left behind is swept away, and the surface is complete.
What can resin bound surfaces be used for?
Resin bound surfaces are smoother and permeable, which means that they are great for use on things like driveways, pathways, and even ornamental gardens. When a resin bound system is installed, you do not have to worry about installing a drainage solution.
Some of the most common uses of resin bound surfacing are:
- outdoor sports surfaces
- footpaths
- cycle paths
- tree pits
What can resin bonded surfaces be used for?
Since resin bonded surfaces are textured and impermeable, they are considered to be high-friction. However they do need to have a drainage system installed so that surface water can leave the resin bonded system. Most commonly, resin bonded systems are used for:
- car parks
- driveways
What are the benefits of both a resin bonded system and a resin bound system?
There are lots of benefits to both systems, and even though resin bound systems are most commonly used for driveways, both have their pros.
Benefits of a resin bound system:
There are plenty of benefits to resin bound driveways, such as:
Customisable
With a resin bound system, there are plenty of design possibilities. Resin bound gravel gives you the options of coloured aggregates and coloured resin, and you can even have specific designs put into resin bound gravel.
Permeable system
Unlike resin bonded gravel, resin bound gravel is permeable, so water can seep through it. This means that no drainage systems or run offs need to be planned.
Does not require planning permission
A lot of home improvements require planning permission from your local authority, but resin bound gravel does not, making it much less effort to install.
Low maintenance
Resin bound paving does not require a lot of cleaning or maintenance, in part because of its nature as a permeable system. This makes life much easier!
Slip resistant
When you have a pathway outside your house or a driveway, the last thing you want is to be slipping and sliding all over the place. Luckily, resin bound paving is slip-resistant, so you won’t be tripping over your feet.
No loose stones
When you get gravel installed, or resin bonded surfaces installed, you run the risk of loose stones being kicked across the surface. With a resin bound surface, this is not the case.
Benefits of a resin bonded driveway:
There are plenty of benefits to a resin bonded system too. Such as:
Looks and feels like gravel
Gravel is a popular choice, but loose aggregate often ends up elsewhere, which puts lots of people off. With resin bonded systems, though, you get the look of gravel without needing to worry about loose stone.
Great for historic properties
For older properties or properties with a more historic look, resin bonded systems can fit the aesthetic much better without being inaccessible or causing loose gravel.
High levels of grip
In addition to all of the above, resin gravel surfacing provides high levels of grip. This is great for wheelchairs, cars, trolleys, and all sorts of other purposes. It can make properties much more accessible and easy to use.
Which surface is best for your driveway?
If you are looking for a driveway and you don’t want to ask for planning permission, or if you don’t have the ability to install drainage systems, then you may want to opt for a resin bound driveway. This is quicker to install, and will last around 20 years.
However, for those with extra time and money to spare, a resin bonded surface may be a good option. This will provide you with a textured finish surface and more grip, and looks much more natural outside a house than other driveway options.
To figure out what the best driveway solution is for you, speak to a professional and get a quote for your driveway. They will know what is best for you and can work with you to determine the best course of action.