We at Mansfield based Drive-Cote Ltd have been operating for nearly 18 years and during this time we have seen companies come and go.  A resin stone option for your driveway, path or patio can be open to all sorts of variations of suitability from different companies.

We would like to say we can offer a 20 year guarantee but we can’t and don’t profess to. The questions to ask is to what extent is the guarantee offered – have they been trading 20 years? Will they be trading in 20 years?  Does it cover the materials only or the install as well (perhaps these questions should be applied to any sort of extensive guarantee)?  We at Drive-Cote Ltd are a small personable local company offering a resin stone option, we do not sub contract and we do not employ the services of other Companies.  Our suppliers are long standing and reputable supplying to the trade with a durable and commercial product available to us for residential use.  This in itself can provide confidence in longevity and durability for a resin stone option for a driveway path or patio from Drive-Cote Ltd.

Resin stone options for driveway paths and patios vary in requirements from the client specification to the suitability of the product for the surface and/ or purpose.

A resin stone option can be split into 2 main sections really

Resin bonded

Resin bound

Wording can be used to describe the different installs.  So on the plus side resin stone options using the bonded application are lot less expensive (or perhaps the word cheap can be used if trying to sway the reader towards the other resin stone option – resin bound stone).

So on the plus side for a resin stone option using the bound application Suds compliant can be highlighted.  However Suds compliance does not mean it has to be permeable it means the run off water has to be managed and that can be with an aco drain and once again perhaps selective wording can be used to sway the customer.

Resin stone option choice

should be down to the suitability of the surface and the requirement of the client.

If we were to look at one example of a requirement for a client  i.e. low or virtually no maintenance then resin bonded stone would be a better choice.  Impermeable means a stiff brush and occasional jet wash is all that is required.  No seal required,  no debris and dirt to clear as can be the case with a permeable surface.  If water can get through then so can mud and debris and this will affect the efficacy of the permeability.

Remember concrete, tarmac or imprinted concrete resin bonded stone can resurface without any mess or disruption

We offer free advice with no obligation – so feel free to call Drive-Cote Ltd based in Mansfield covering Shirebrook, Stonebroom, Clowne, Sutton in Ashfield, Kirkby in Ashfield, Belper, Forest Town, Clipstone, Teversal, Rainworth, Stanton Hill, Tibshelf, Morton, Pilsley, Edingley, Southwell, Mansfield Woodhouse.

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For a fresh new and extended driveway resin bonded stone can provide  uniformity and a durable quality to an otherwise limiting access.  This Mansfield client wanted to extend and incorporate more hard standing area so we completed this Mansfield driveway resin refurbishment.  We could say completed in a day but that would be untrue as we had to extend the area first.

Works needed first to enable a uniform coverage included groundworks and preparation works to facilitate the concrete install prior to the resin install (which was completed in a day)

     The end product being a protective durable and anti slip surface.  Virtually maintenance free!

Resin driveway by Drive-Cote Ltd

Mansfield driveway resin resurfacing Mansfield

Drive-Cote Ltd resin bonded stone path

Resin paving completed in a day

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a resin bonded USP for your concrete or patio would have to be the fact that it uses an existing surface as a base.

Not all resin resurfacing is bonded and therefore does not provide the benefit of the USP on using an existing surface.  This week we have been provided with a number of enquiries all needing clarification as to the difference between resin bonded and resin bound surfacing and paving options.

We are Mansfield based and have been working with resin for nearly 2 decades and even to this day we still have to clarify the differences in resin, its purposes and uses and the benefits.

We have even recently seen a resurfacing with resin on a block paved drive which is not a something we advocate. Resin is a solid monolithic surface the same as concrete and tarmac and installing resin bonded stone on an impermeable surface means it reinforces the stability and strength of the resin.  The USP being it uses existing surfaces.  Don’t take our word for it.  Call for an example near you.

Mansfield Ashfield Sutton Chesterfield Higham Alfreton Shirland Westhouse Stonebroom Morton Pilsey Tibshelf Stanton Hill Shirebrook

Commercial or residential we can help.

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As the start of the season begins we thought we would  remind everyone of the possible driveway surface solutions available.  Obviously when we say driveway we include paths and patios in this subject.

• Resin Bonded Stone
• Resin Bound Paving
• Block paving
• Imprinted concrete
• Tarmac
• Concrete

No one surface is the ideal, especially if the subject matter is external.  Whilst we in the UK are not subject to severe weather conditions as a whole, we still need to be respectful of elements which can create the need for possible driveway surface solutions.

The freeze thaw effect which has not had much effect this year, is the main cause of surface deterioration with tarmac and concrete.  Potholes and shelling being obvious evidence of the how the weather can damage our driveways paths and patios.  That said the surface damage is generally superficial and if treated or protected soon enough further deterioration will not occur.

Resin bonded stone and resin bound paving very often confused as the same ( which they are definitely not), block paving, imprinted concrete, tarmac and concrete are all possible options but it should be realised there is a downside to all  external surfacing.  It may be a maintenance option is necessary (block paving and imprinted concrete for example).  We always recommend all possible driveway surface solutions are considered carefully.  Consider why you need to address the area, or if it is just a cosmetic solution you required.

[See image gallery at www.drive-cote.co.uk] We try to provide the pro’s and cons with all our clients.  As a Mansfield based company we aim to offer honest advice.  For example consider what is already down and the purpose for what you are considering possible driveway surface solutions for – is it to protect? Is it to look attractive?  Is it a necessary finish?  Do you want a choice of colour?

Remember you do not have to resurface in in one go your driveway path or patio area can be an organic development and can even create kerb appeal.

Mansfield, Ripley, Heanor, Belper, Shirebook, Warsop, Blidworth, Bilsthorpe call now for a free quote.

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Drive-Cote Ltd resin bonded website revamp is on the cards for our Drive-Cote Ltd company

We have been installing for over 15 years now with quite a lot of our history recorded on the website and the thing with websites is that they soon become outdated.

Mobile devices being a popular search tool now like different versions than the standard desktop versions.

The Drive-Cote Ltd resin bonded website revamp will hopefully help reach our audience a little easier.

[See image gallery at www.drive-cote.co.uk] Resin bonded stone was originally used on the roadways but it soon progressed to residential surfaces which is where our start was.  Resin bonded stone being a durable but attractive product means that existing surfaces can be resurfaced.

So keep checking in and see if we have upgraded yet!  Concrete, imprinted concrete or tarmac (path or patio) we can resurface for a virtually weed and maintenance free surface. (don’t forget we can’t do block paving)

Or come and see resin bonded stone in situ!  Here at Drive-Cote Ltd 63 Berry Hill Lane Mansfield Notts NG18 4BP

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Concrete resin bonded overlay is an alternative to the more back breaking options if you already have a concrete or tarmac surface in place.

The many benefits of a concrete resin bonded overlay include

•  Recycling the existing surface
• Can be completed in a day without the mess and disruption associated with the removal and replacement of the existing concrete or tarmac
• High anti slip properties (particularly with resin bonded resurfacing) that no other product in the market place at present can compete with
• Choice of colours and finishes for a  concrete resin bonded overlay  (don’t take our word for it this local supplier of specialist media offer a varied selection)
• Virtually weed and maintenance free
• No change to existing levels with a concrete resin bonded overlay
• No major noisy or invasive machinery or equipment is required as a hand laid process bespoke and individual projects are created.The work involved in removing an existing surface (and more so if it is a good solid structure) is time consuming, costly and physical.   

This helpful post goes on to say “The nature of concrete is that it is very strong and using a breaker is the only real way of cutting it up into manageable size pieces so that it can be cleared. There are a number of different breakers available or jackhammers as they are sometimes called. Typically a builder would use a hydraulic breaker as shown in the picture, or a pneumatic breaker powered by a compressor. For DIY, an electric heavy duty breaker would be more appropriate. These are readily available from tool hire shops and you should take the time to familiarise yourself with the operation of the particular tool that you hire. Hire shops will run through the method and provide you with instructions but, make sure you ask if you are unsure about anything” confirms that a lot of physical work can be involved and the question is why when it is not necessary if a concrete resin bonded overlay is a possible.

Free quotes available call Simon or Faith on 01623 623986.

Mansfield, Kirkby in Ashfield, Bilsthorpe, Alfreton, Stonebroom, Mickley, Stretton, Higham, Ripley

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We at Drive-Cote pride ourselves on honest answers to questions we are asked.  No dodging the bullet so to speak!

This week we have been discussing the options and the pros and cons and we have tried to provide honest resin installation advice.  Whether it is for resurfacing concrete, imprinted concrete tarmac or block paving.  The truth of the matter is is that no surface is perfect.  It is down to the right product for the correct purpose.  A local Nottingham enquiry for resin installation advice prompted  a few rather lengthy discussions and meets.

The result of our resin installation advice?  well read for yourself and see what you think.

“To confirm as requested details as follows  – To  repair and resurface existing concrete driveway in 1-3mm silver grey granite Resin Bonded stone   At a reduced price of £

On receipt of   your confirmation of the order we can order your materials and progress the works.   The preparation work can be completed with a settling and assessment period being allowed (as per the detail below) with the resin bonded install being completed after this.

Please note we are aware of your concerns about the potential for standing water on the driveway when the resin bonding has been completed.  Unfortunately until works are carried out we cannot tell the full extent of potential puddling that may occur and unless a driveway is on a slope a certain amount of small puddling is a possible.  Having said that these can usually be overcome by drilling a drain hole in any puddling areas to allow water to filter through.  Once the resin driveway installation is completed we can assess further and  if required  we would be more than happy to install the drainage holes at no extra charge.

In certain instances it is possible to install an eco drainage channel however this would be subject to an additional cost to yourself (approximately £200-£300) but we would provide any resin repairs required at our own cost.

We can prep, fill and level where possible in the near future (once the deposit above is paid).  And after allowing a couple of weeks to monitor the drainage we should then be able to see if there are any small puddles (meaning a further reassessment  prior to the installation)  and then complete  further minor leveling if required prior to the install. One of the key benefits of our resin bonded installations is the overall impermeability resin bonded aggregate provides.  If water cannot permeate through then this prevents weed growth, protects the existing surface, eliminates the need to remove the existing surface and at the same time provides an attractive and extremely durable surface.  Should you wish to discuss any aspect then please do not hesitate to contact either myself or Faith on the above number”

However if you are looking for a permeable surface resin bonded stone is not the way to go.  The point with all our advice is is that we offer honest advice.

Mansfield, Ashfield, Southwell, Ripley, Alfreton, Stonebroom, Morton, Pilsley, Tibshelf.  Call now and see if we can help you.  If our product is not right for you then we won’t install it.  No salesman just Simon or Faith!   Remember concrete tarmac, imprinted concrete or  tarmac  (which can be particularly susceptible to damage – think about potholes)   are tough surfaces but they do not last forever.

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This week we have been approached by a potential customer in Sutton in Ashfield enlightening himself with information with regard to a resin bonded stone driveway dropped kerb potential.
Planning permission is a requirement for this resin bonded stone driveway dropped kerb potential as kerbs offer a number of purposes –

• retaining the carriageway edge to prevent ‘spreading’ and loss of structural integrity
• acting as a barrier or demarcation between road traffic and pedestrians or verges
• providing physical ‘check’ to prevent vehicles leaving the carriageway
• forming a channel along which surface water can be drained

A dropped kerb would allow access to areas that would normally be hindered or affected by a standard kerb and in order to ensure compliance permissions are required. Notts County Council has information which includes the following
“Planning permission – If you want a dropped kerb outside your property you will need our planning approval. You may also need to get planning permission from your local district council.
Who can install a dropped kerb? – You may employ a contractor of your choice to carry out these works, subject to them meeting certain requirements.
Your contractor will need to apply to us for a permit to alter the highway outside your property and we will inspect the work to ensure that it meets our specification.”
The caller was actually trying to create access to the front of his property and wanted to create a parking area for a couple of reasons. Parking by other residents hindering access to his property and to gain vehicular access to the property. Planning permission was being sought to have a dropped kerb installed and he was also having to consider the options for the hardstanding area. He was actually advised that he needed planning for the hard landscaping area which is not true. As we have said many times before anything hard landscaped over 5sqm on a front garden needs to manage run off water and Suds requirements apply
SUDS is Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems the key point being sustainable drainage methods for dealing with drainage in a sustainable manner, using technologies that minimise the environmental impact of our lifestyles, buildings, structures and surfaces. This does not mean permeable paving must be installed.
In discussing the matter of a resin bonded stone driveway dropped kerb and the potential options for his driveway, we ran through the various pros and cons. We always try to be fair and honest. The gentleman was considering resin bound options and had already spoken with a ground worker who had provided him with potential costs.
Sutton in Ashfield, Kirkby in Ashfield, Mansfield, Ravenshead, Bilsthorpe, Sherwood, Annesley, Kirkby in Ashfield, Ripley Alfreton, Stonebroom, Morton, Shirebrook.

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Is this the question or is driveway tarmac concrete or resin the answer?

Over the years of working with resin, we have researched and followed a large number of reputable driveway companies -both large and small with regard to the installation of tarmac in particular.
When we first started in resin bonded stone resurfacing over 15 years ago, it was a little known product and over the years we have seen the industry grow.

Now commercial and residential installations can be seen all over the country. The rise in the use of resin bonded stone and resin bound paving has seen the use of tarmac and concrete continue to be popular. As a surface for a vehicle or vehicles there is little that can compare to the monolithic properties of tarmac and concrete.

Now there can be issues with the installs of concrete and tarmac and issues once laid – cracking for concrete or poor or unsuitable mixes, or sticky tarmac  can create big issues particularly if an experienced and knowledgeable contractor is not used but if laid correctly a good quality solid monolithic surface can last 30 years or more. Yes there may be surface deterioration, but a good solid quality install, structurally, can last a lifetime.

Which is exactly why we use concrete and tarmac as a base for our resin bonded installs. The existing surface is the surface that takes the weight of the vehicle and for our resin bonded aggregate concrete and tarmac are the perfect base.

Permeability

Suds permeability and water management are all high on our lists of priorities (or should be) but that doesn’t mean to say you have to lay a permeable surface. Just manage the run off water and to do this there are a variety of options including making sure the fall on your driveway is correct. Mind you if you think that is a simple option think again!

So back to the driveway tarmac concrete or resin – consider carefully before you remove an existing surface and think about resurfacing with resin bonded stone.  Over 2 years ago we were writing about gardens driveways drainage floods

Anti slip virtually weed free, can be installed in a day. Suitable for driveway paths or patios. Uses concrete, tarmac and imprinted concrete as a base.

Mansfield, Ashfield, Ilkeston, Ripley, Alfreton, Hilcote, Chesterfield, Blackwell, Sutton in Ashfield Ravenshead, Shirebrook. Call Simon or Faith on 01623 623986

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