Driveways can make or break a property’s curb appeal, making it important to weigh your options before picking one. With the many options available, however, it can be challenging for the average homeowner to make a decision without concrete information. You need to consider the features of each type of driveway and their pros and cons.
The resin bound driveway is one of the common types that you'll come across during your hunt. It is a type of paving material made by mixing aggregate stone with resin. The resin acts as a binder, holding the stones together and creating a durable and attractive surface. However, these are not the only reasons that have made resin bound driveways increasingly popular. In this read, we’re going to look at both the benefits and downsides, helping you make an informed decision.
The Pros of Resin Bound Driveways
Durable
Resin bound paving is designed from a mixture of resin and aggregate, creating a robust surface. The paving is resistant to chipping and cracking and can withstand heavy traffic. It's also pervious, meaning it allows water draining, alleviating the issue of waterlogging and puddles. When properly maintained, a resin bound driveway can last up to a decade, much longer than most surfacing options.
Aesthetically Pleasing
From an aesthetic perspective, resin bound driveways have an appealing look, thanks to their smooth finish. An aesthetically pleasing driveway can enhance the appearance of your property, meaning going for resin could substantially increase the value of your home. The material is also available in a wide array of colours, allowing for a custom design that complements other elements of your property and also matches your taste.
Quick Installation
Resin bound driveways are among the easiest to install. That’s because they can be fitted to an existing tarmac or concrete surface, making a top layer. If it’s to be laid over an existing surface, the job can be done in a day. If excavation is required, you can expect the project to take about one week.
Affordable
Another appealing benefit of resin bound paving is its affordability. Finding durable, appealing materials that offer value for money can be challenging. The fact that it can be laid on an existing surface makes it relatively inexpensive compared to other types of driveways. However, keep in mind that all this depends on the condition of the existing surface and how much preparation is needed before installation.
Low Maintenance
Resin bound driveways don’t call for much when it comes to care and maintenance. With some materials, you need to constantly reposition the stones or bricks and tear out the weeds. With resin paving, however, you don’t have to worry about these aspects, and it will stay in good shape for years.
The Cons of Resin Bound Driveways
While resin is an excellent option for paving, it also has some downsides that are worth considering to ensure you’re making a smart decision.
Unscrupulous Installers
One of the biggest drawbacks is that there are no laid-out standards for installation or legal regulations for contractors. This means that you are likely to hire parties that don’t have the necessary skills, experience, and equipment to do a proper job, leaving you vulnerable to frustrating issues down the line.
Resin bound paving is installed using polyurethane resin, a material that reacts to moisture, UV light, among other properties. This means for correct installation, you need a contractor that is aware and has experience in handling the material.
Discolouration
Another downside of resin bound paving is that the material reacts to UV light, and this can be an issue depending on the colour you pick. Polyurethane resin is primarily available in two types: aliphatic polyurethane and aromatic polyurethane. The former is UV stable, meaning it does not change when exposed to sunlight light. The latter, however, will turn to a yellow or golden colour when exposed to ultraviolet light. While this may not be an issue with a golden aggregate, it can be unappealing if you have installed a driveway with a different colour.
Not Ideal for Heavy Traffic Areas
Resin bound driveways are also not the best picks for areas that are subject to heavy traffic. If there’s too much activity, such as cars turning, the resin will eventually lift. A good example would be a car park that’s constantly subjected to HGVs.
Potential for Moss Growth
While these driveways don’t call for the same degree of maintenance as their counterparts, it doesn’t mean they are maintenance-free. You’ll want to ensure the driveway is routinely cleaned to prevent algae or moss growth. Consider using a high-pressure washer every now and then to keep the surface clean.
These are the most important elements to keep in mind when considering resin bound driveway. By weighing both the pros and cons, you’ll be able to make a decision you will not regret.
