Resin bound systems VS resin bonded systems
A resin driveway provides an alternative solution to block paving or a gravel driveway. While both a resin bound surface and a resin bonded system both use a combination of aggregates and resin to provide a slip resistant, hard wearing and decorative finish, there are some key differences between both systems.
Resin bound driveway
A resin bound system is comprised of resin and aggregates that are combined and laid as a seamless carpet of natural products, bound and fully encapsulated within liquid resin.
Generally the aggregates or loose gravel is combined with resin and hardener. Once it has been removed from the mixer, the material is then poured onto the surface, raked out and then finished by hand using a trowel to ensure that the surface is flat. Typically, a resin bound driveway will have a thickness of around 12-40mm, depending on the application and the anticipated traffic.
A resin bound paving solution provides slip resistance and a decorative finish that is highly water permeable.
This system can be laid over the top of new or existing tarmac or concrete. Water is drained through to the base, leading to planted areas or land drains, eliminating the risk of water ponding. Bound resin surfaces can also be applied onto SuDS compliant bases and sub-bases to reduce the impact of urban development on areas of flood risk and encouraging water to flow into water courses. When installed onto a SuDS compliant base, the resin bound surfacing system can allow up to 500 litres of water to permeate through every m2 per minute.
A resin bound aggregate system is ideal for decorative driveways, pathways, carparks and swimming pool surrounds.
Resin bonded driveway
Resin bonded surfacing is also known as a scatter system. Where a resin bound system is applied in a thick layer, a bonded system comprises of a scatter of stone across a layer of resin that has already been applied.
The resin is mixed with a drill and paddle before being poured onto the surface and spread out using a roller, trowel or notched squeegee until it is a thickness of around 1mm. The dried aggregates is then broadcast over the top of the resin, ensuring complete coverage and a non-porous driveway solution.
A resin bonded system is suitable for domestic, commercial and industrial use. It offers decorative paving while also ensuring high slip resistance – this makes it practical and aesthetic.