When
it comes to decorative driveways, resin is one of the newest and hottest
products around. It's a recent innovation in the UK market, though it's been
popular in Australia and the States for some years. However, as with all new
products, it's worth knowing your way around resin before you decide to upgrade
to a truly decorative drive.
There
are two methods of resin application commonly used today and these are resin
bonded and resin bound. So, what's the difference and which is the best choice
for your home?
Resin Application
Techniques
The
basic idea behind a Resin Bound Driveway
or resin bonded driveway is pretty straightforward.
Aggregates, or gravel, are mixed or fixed in place with clear resins. Once the
resin is set you're left with a hard-wearing, attractive finish that should, when
installed properly, last for years. The two different types of resin
application – bonded or bound are also pretty simple to understand.
The Name is Bonded, Resin Bonded
Bonded means, effectively,
'glued'. Resin is spread across the surface and gravel then brushed over it,
firmly getting stuck in place in the process. Any excess can then be brushed
off once the resin has set.
It’s Bound to be Bounded!
In resin bonded decorative driveway the
gravel is mixed with resin. This coats the individual stones which are then
spread over the area to be covered.
Decorative Driveways
and Which to Choose?
Both
types of decorative driveway are extremely durable, they're slip resistant,
inhibit weed growth and, of course, create a truly attractive finish. Patterns,
designs and logos can be built-in and thanks to the Resin
Bound Drive, these will stay in pristine condition (and
in place) for years to come.
Maintenance
is also a doddle; a regular sweep or occasional pressure wash and your
decorative driveway is as good as new. Unlike other surfaces, in fact, resin
driveways are less susceptible to the build-up of dirt and grime, making them a
perfect low maintenance option.
The
main, perhaps most significant, difference between the two is that the Resin
Drive variety of
driveway doesn't allow water to flow through to the ground. So these should be
constructed to allow water to flow away to your drainage points. Resin bonded
surfaces are, however, fully permeable, eliminating the risk of pooling or even
small areas of flooding. Either way, as decorative driveways go, resin is
likely to be the material of choice for many years to come!
