Resin Bound Driveway FAQs
If you’re a tradesperson wanting to offer customers the very best resin driveway options, we at Resin Mill are here to help. Odds are you’re more familiar with the likes of asphalt and concrete. However, you probably have a few questions about which information and answers to give to homeowners. That’s why we’ve compiled comprehensive resin driveway FAQs.
FAQS
Is a resin driveway better than block paving?
Block paving, otherwise known as a brick driveway, achieves a certain look due to its nature of being laid down brick by brick. Resin driveways, meanwhile, take less time to implement because they comprise of a smooth base with a permeable surface on the top.
Whether or not it’s “better” will be dependent on what the homeowner wants exactly, but on average it’s a quicker, more modern, and highly weather-resistant driveway option that has many benefits over block paving.
Is a resin driveway cheaper than paving?
Resin driveways are generally more consistently priced when compared to block paving, and much more affordable for both tradesmen and homeowners too. Resin driveways stay looking their very best for years to come, whereas old-school block paving can be prone to chips and tends to require much more maintenance.
As such, a resin driveway is cheaper both in the short and long term.
How long does resin last on a driveway?
When properly installed and looked after using minimal maintenance, a high-quality resin driveway can last for more than 25 years. Resin bound paving is purposely designed to be long-lasting and durable. The occasional sweep and a power wash will keep it looking as good as the day it was first laid down.
Do weeds grow through resin driveways?
No. Due to the porous nature of resin bound surfaces, water easily drains through it instead of settling on top of the surface. This means any weed seedlings become starved of water, preventing the roots from establishing and stopping the weed from thriving.
This means you can spend less time weeding your driveway (in fact, no time at all) and more time enjoying it. There’s a chance that seedlings in the air could land on your resin driveway, but this is incredibly rare and easily dealt with.
Does water drain through the resin driveway?
Yes. Simply put, a resin driveway boasts a naturally permeable surface made up of countless small holes that the human eye is incapable of seeing. This means that, instead of collecting unsightly puddles or large pools of water on top for someone to potentially step in, the resin surface cleverly lets any rainfall flow through it. That means, with the correct base, a new resin driveway will remain fully SuDS compliant and will not require additional drainage to be installed or require planning permission to install.
Are resin drives worth the money?
The cost of a resin bound driveway can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the area that needs to be covered, the type and quality of materials used, and the complexity of the installation.
Other factors that can affect the price include site preparation work such as excavation or levelling, drainage requirements, and any additional features like edging or lighting. The location and accessibility of the site can also impact the cost.
These factors all play into price but mean resin driveways are almost always cheaper than block paving. When combined with their low maintenance qualities, most homeowners consider them worth the initial investment.
Are resin driveways low maintenance?
Yes, especially when compared to gravel, asphalt and block paving driveway options. Weeds are unable to poke up through the surface and water is unable to gather on top. Just the occasional sweep or brush is all that’s needed to keep a resin driveway looking clean and new for up to 25 years.
Can you pressure wash a resin driveway?
You can certainly pressure wash a resin driveway when wanting to remove those particularly tough stains or any ground-in dirt. We wouldn’t recommend using one with a pressure rating higher than 150 bar, and only cold water should be applied.
Do resin driveways fade?
Resin driveways are highly resistant to fading, thanks to the UV stabilisers present in the resin. These stabilisers help to prevent the surface from breaking down or discolouring due to exposure to sunlight. However, like any outdoor surface, resin driveways can be affected by environmental factors such as pollution or weathering over time. If you want to maintain the appearance of your driveway and keep it looking its best for years to come, regular cleaning and maintenance are recommended. This may include power washing, sweeping, and resealing the surface every few years.
Should a resin driveway crack?
No. If installed correctly and to a high standard, resin driveways should never suffer from cracks. In most cases where this happens, it’s usually the result of poor base installation as opposed to a problem with the materials chosen. Our crack reduction membrane can be used to further reduce the likelihood of a resin driveway cracking.
What is the difference between a resin bound and a resin-bonded surface?
The main difference between a resin bound and a resin bonded surface is the way in which they are laid. A resin bound surface is created by mixing aggregate such as stone, gravel, or sand with a two-part resin. This bound gravel is then spread across the surface and compacted down to create a solid, smooth finish. Resin bound surfaces can be used for both foot and vehicle traffic.
A resin bonded surface is created by mixing aggregate with a single-part resin. This mixture is then applied to the existing surface and brushed in place to form an even layer. The resin helps to bind the aggregate together, but it does not fill in any gaps like a resin bound surface would. Resin bonded surfaces are usually less expensive than resin bound surfaces, but they do not have the same level of strength and durability and cannot be used for driveways.
Have any more questions? Get in touch!
We hope to have answered some of your most common questions, but if you do require any further information, email us or give our friendly team of experts a call on 01484 400855 who will be happy to assist you further.
If you are an installer looking for more information about how to use our products, check out our comprehensive training courses at our UK base in Huddersfield.