How do I fix the cracks in my driveway?

A resin bound driveway is a great option for your home if you are looking for an attractive and durable driveway that will last. Resin bound driveways are weatherproof and have low maintenance requirements. They also come in a range of colours and styles, so there's sure to be one perfect for every home. However, occasionally cracks can form in the resin bound surface. Driveway cracks can be extremely difficult to repair, which often means the surface needs replacing. Thankfully, there are several ways to help prevent driveway cracks from appearing in the first place. We have created a short guide to help you understand what causes resin driveways to crack.

What causes a resin bound driveway to crack?

There are a few reasons why a resin bound driveway could crack. Inexperienced installers, unsuitable weather, incorrect aggregate ratios, and the condition of the sub-base all have the potential to cause a resin bound driveway to crack. We at the Resin Mill offer dedicated training courses at The Resin Mill Training Academy to prevent issues like these, and for resin installers to give long-lasting results and build an impressive portfolio of resin bound driveways that will stand the test of time.

What is reflective cracking in resin bound driveways?

Reflective cracking occurs when cracks in the base layer or sub-base cause stress concentrations in the resin overlay. These cracks tend to follow the path of the cracks in the base, hence the term ‘reflective’ cracking. Cracks can also form at sites where a new base layer meets a pre-existing base layer. This is known as joint reflection cracking and is a common issue when an existing driveway is being extended.

How do I stop reflective cracking in a resin driveway?

Prevention is better than cure when it comes to driveway cracks. Whilst resin bound driveways and paving can withstand a certain amount of movement, they still need a solid base. The best way to prevent reflective cracking is to ensure the sub-base is reliable and free from cracks. For larger areas, especially those where the existing surface area is being extended, using a reinforcement system will help prevent cracks from forming – in particular joint reflection cracks. Our Crack Reduction Membrane is manufactured from high-strength glass fibres with a specially formulated protective polymer coating. It is laid directly over the sub-base, making it a great solution for resin driveways with two different types of bases. The membrane can be used on top of a tarmac base to remain fully SUDS compliant and will help to prevent reflective cracks from appearing in the resin bound finish. As tarmac has different thermal expansion to the resin bound surface, our crack reduction membrane allows the base to contract and expand without causing cracks in the resin surface.

What should I do if I notice a crack in my resin bound driveway?

If you do notice a crack appearing in your resin bound driveway, patio, or path, you should act without delay – not only do cracks pose a potential trip hazard but leaving cracks unattended can result in a more difficult and more costly repair. You should contact your installer to get both the resin surface and the base professionally inspected. In most cases, cracks appearing in the resin bound surface will be a result of a poor or improper base installation.

How do I fix a cracked resin driveway?

Cracks in a resin bound driveway can be a major headache. Not only do they look unsightly, but they can also be a safety hazard. If cracks do appear, it is important to repair them as soon as possible. The same is true for resin bound paving, patios, or any other area where resin bound gravel is used. Fortunately, repairing cracks in a resin bound driveway is possible for a professional resin driveway installer. They can select a fresh mix of the same colour resin bound stone and tightly pack it into the gap. When repairing patches in the resin bound surface, it can take a little while for the new resin bound stone to blend with the old surface, but a correctly repaired resin bound surface will last for many years.

Help with fixing cracks in a resin driveway

We offer a range of products that can be used for resin driveway repairs, including a wide selection of resins, aggregates, and other products. Our comprehensive training programme shows the best practices for installing resin bound products, and our Crack Reduction Membrane is another fantastic tool that can be used to great effect in preventing cracks from forming in the first place. Speak to our knowledgeable UK sales team for guidance and support that is second to none. Call us on 01484 400 855 or use our online form for more information; we would love to hear from you!