resin bound stone using existing surfaces
After years of visiting potential customers for our resin bonded driveways it is becoming increasingly common for our clients to ask if resin bound stone using existing surfaces is a suitable option. In some cases we are asked what is the difference between resin bound stone using existing surfaces and resin bonded stone using existing surfaces?
There are number of differences but one major difference in resin bound stone using existing surfaces and resin bonded stone using existing surfaces is porosity or permeability.
The whole point of resin bound stone is the ability for the water to permeate through and in some cases feed the ground below (treepits being particularly suitable as the roots can continue to be watered), However if resin bound stone using existing surfaces such as concrete or tarmac is applied the question that should be asked is- what benefit is it to add a permeable product to an impermeable surface (which is what concrete, tarmac and imprinted concrete) are?
If you want the permeability for whatever reason ( suds capability for example) to allow the water to disperse, how can this be achieved if the surface below is not permeable?
Surely with no means of dispersal in winter time water will freeze and expand causing the free/thaw process we see so much of (potholes being a prime example). Shelling also occurs with concrete surfaces. Concrete is a phenomenal product if installed correctly so good care and protecting it is important. Whilst obvious damage cracks and shelling can look bad, it is not always an immediate problem but over time these can deteriorate and can ultimately damage the actual surface.
Resin bound stone using existing surfaces also allows the moss and seed growth to establish in the damp and porous surface, meaning frequent applications of weed killers and moss treatments. Maintenance still being a requirement.
Another down side to resin bound driveways is the wear on the coating of the stone granules. Whilst very attractive at first because the resin encapsulates the stone, over a period of time this wears and further recoating is required. None of which is required with a resin bonded driveway path or patio.
Remember weed free, anti slip and maintenance free are major benefits not necessarily afforded by resin bound stone using existing surfaces.
Tags: anti slip, Concrete, imprinted concrete, Resin Bonded Stone, resin bound paving