driveway tarmac concrete or resin

February 27th, 2016

driveway tarmac concrete or resin

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.

driveway tarmac concrete or resin

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.

driveway tarmac concrete or resin

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

Drive-Cote Ltd resin bonded stone and sustainability

February 21st, 2016

Drive-Cote Ltd resin bonded stone and sustainability

What does environmentally sustainable polyurethane resin bonded stone mean?

The environment is of serious concern to us all and put simply sustainability is a set of ideas and practices with a long term goal of conserving natural resources; minimizing waste, pollution, and other negative forms of human impact; and promoting global environmental and ecological awareness.
We at Drive-Cote Ltd primarily resurface existing surfaces such as concrete or tarmac to try and minimise the impact on the environment in a sustainable way by reusing as opposed to removing and installing. This  means we at Drive-Cote Ltd continually consider resin bonded stone and sustainability.
A concrete driveway laid correctly is a solid construction and should last for at least 30 years. The mess, cost and the unnecessary and environmentally unfriendly need to dispose of the waste – all add to the disruption and unnecessary option in having a new surface laid. So this is where our resin bonded stone and sustainability comes into play.


All too often in the natural course of life such as wear and tear damage through the natural weathering process we feel the need to remove and renew as opposed to considering more environmentally friendly choices such as resurfacing and renewing.

resin bonded stone and sustainability

resin bonded stone and sustainability

Polyurethane is widely used and is used in a variety of durable products, offering many years of service. Lifetimes can vary between 3 and more than 50 years depending on the end use. An average lifetime of 15 years for refrigerators (insulated with polyurethane foam) is just one example.
The Plastics Industry has the versatility and benefits of goods and articles made from fossil resources, such as oil, gas and coal, or renewable resources, such as starch and sugar. The plastics industry can offer favourable solutions to mitigate many of the threats imposed by future potential resource deficiencies. Although using up some resources, these materials, after a useful life, can either be recycled or can be recovered as a fuel, thus avoiding the separate extraction and processing of, for instance, oil.

Mansfield, Ashfield, Bolsover, Shirebrook, Glapwell, Sutton in Ashfield, Derby, Alfreton, Swanwick, Heanor, Belper, Raveshead. Resin bonded stone the sustainable way to upgrade your driveway path or patio.

Anti slip and virtually weed and maintenance free.  Suds compliance concerns?  then call us for a free no obligation chat. Simon or Faith 01623 623986

Mansfield resin driveway company

February 13th, 2016

Mansfield resin driveway company

Mansfield resin driveway company Drive-Cote Ltd provide quality Resin Bonded stone and aggregate resurfacing for your existing driveway, path and patio. Concrete, tarmac or imprinted concrete.
We also provide free no obligation quotes. With over 15 years experience as a Mansfield  Resin Driveway Company we will provide you with honest advice.

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Only this week two of the visits we have completed have been ambiguous with their need to be completed. By this we mean is it necessary? Is the surface deteriorating? Does it need protecting.
Our clients contact us for a variety of reasons it may be because the surface is looking tired or it may be because the surface is becoming damaged. Whatever the reason we aim to provide fair and honest answers.
One particular enquiry was referred to us by a local gardener. The concrete surface had been previously coated and painted with an industrial paint. For whatever reason this had blistered over the last few years. It could have been the paint, a reaction between the paint and the concrete or just a poor quality product.Mansfield resin driveway company
Floor paint for an external concrete drive can be a fast fix but does not always have the longevity required. A bit like a seal on paving and block paving. Regular maintenance and recoating or sealing is a must. The elements like frost and damp can have a devastating effect on the look as well.

P1000539

Mansfield Resin Driveway Company

This client wanted us to resurface with our resin bonded gravel within the week. Unfortunately we could not accommodate. The temperature to start with can be an issue and we are not in the business of compromising on our installations.
Resin is an extremely durable but dictorial product – temperature and wet weather can make or break an install.
Anti slip and virtually weed free are qualities that resin bonded aggregate can promote. The surface provided by resin bonded stone is impermeable and therefore prevents the ingress of water (which is not a disadvantage as many seem to believe). Want to know more? call Simon or Faith for more information. Suds compliance means management of surface water, not that a permeable has to be installed.
Shirebrook, Ravenshead, Ilkeston, Alfreton, Annesley Woodhouse,Chesterfield,  Kirkby in Ashfield. Paths or patios, driveways or car parks. Resin bonded stone can protect and extend the life of your concrete or tarmac.

permeable concrete

February 8th, 2016

permeable concrete

is it the answer to the flooding issues – Topmix Permeable concrete can absorb 880 gallons of water in 60 seconds. Varied reactions to this report online today with some of the feedback below.
“It would be good for some race tracks around the world”

 

“Cold winters! Water will get into the pores and freeze, breaking up the concrete just as it does regular concrete and asphalt roads”
“The top permeable concrete is supposed to be a channel, not a reservoir. All the water will flow through it and get discharged from the embedded pipes or seeps down to the bottom soil layer. So no worries for frost damage”
“They tried it here in Ohio. It failed, filled up the pores with dirt, stones and leaf debris”
“We’ve been using it in California to return sitting water to the water table. it’s probably good for everywhere that there’s not a real winter”
“Permeable concrete will be as useless as permeable block paving. Clogs up over the space of a year then its sealed”
“With all that water inside it, come the first decent frost and it will break up into tiny pieces”
“So the road absorbs all this water. What happens in winter when all this absorbed water freezes, expands and lifts the road surface “
“I know of at least one (and probably hundreds) large carpark here in UK that has permeable asphalt (tarmac). No visible drains or gullies. Even in heavy rain it just goes right through to underground drainage. Works well and was fine all winter”
Quite a mixed reaction to this potential alternative to the usual concrete lots more replies which all give rise to the fact that there are still many questions to be answered with this option.
As with all surfaces, gardens and driveways one shoe does not fit all.  As one comment pointed out with regard to the permeable concrete – the level of the water table can have a bearing.
With so many areas in the uk being hit hard with flooding problems, it makes sense to look at all options, but make sure you consider the pros and cons of all surfaces. If water can permeate then weeds can grow and embed, which in turn can weaken the surfaces and make it susceptible to damage. In addition to this maintenance would be a must to ensure the porosity is not diminished with dirt.
Mansfield, Ravenshead, Ripley, Sheffield, Shirebrook. We have to agree this video seems to give credibility to this option but one question we would ask is is how suitable is it for domestic areas?

resin path preparation

January 31st, 2016

Resin path preparation

Resin path preparation works can vary from surface to surface considering various aspects i.e condition, whether it is concrete or tarmac and even the position of the path.

resin path preparation by Drive-Cote Ltd DSCN6526 Drive-Cote Ltd Mansfield resin bonded works DSCN3469

Preparation works are key to the longevity and quality of the resin bonded resurfacing install. The prep work can regulate, strengthen and protect the existing surface (concrete, tarmac, imprinted concrete all having different dictates) and this in turn ensures the resin application is correctly installed.
All surfaces such as tarmac, concrete and imprinted concrete (solid and monolithic) have a certain amount of porosity, permeability and unevenness and the preparation works can make or break a resurfacing application. What is also key is the existing surface – how structurally sound is this? Is it just superficially damaged, are there tree roots affecting the area? These can all affect the efficacy of a resin install. It is a little like when you paint something, you may need to sand the surface and clean it to ensure the best bond between the existing surface and the new paint applied. With a driveway path or patio a “key” surface is also a necessary.


Part of our resin path preparation work involves using a rapid setting specialist waterproof filler and levelling compound. Why you may ask? Resin is quite a complex but versatile product but if used with unsuitable products can react, which in turn creates a lack of adhesion. We need to ensure that any cracks and holes in the concrete or tarmac are filled prior to the application. Resin path preparation work can differ from driveway prep work. A path is for foot traffic and therefore has a lesser strength requirement in comparison to a driveway which (usually) takes a vehicle weight.
As with all our works a site visit is a must. We can always provide an approximate cost but we would need to view the existing surface. Free quotes. Mansfield, Ashfield, Ilkeston, Swanwick, Chesterfield, Ripley, Nottingham, Derby, Heanor, New Houghton, Clay Cross, Carlton, Annesley Woodborough and Clifton. Weed free, anti slip and virtually maintenance free. Resin bonded stone installs use the existing surface as the base. No mess no disruption. For an impressive and anti slip surface call Drive-Cote Ltd

driveway rust spots

January 27th, 2016

driveway rust spots

Over two years ago we detailed a post on our website about driveway rust spots  problems.  This week we have had contact from a client of another company asking for advice with regard to this.

Originally our first encounter with rust spots was over 10 years ago when we were using a particular media and for a number of years  this  media was not an issue.   All our  products, materials and installs are monitored and assessed on a regular basis.  This ensures the best quality and fit for purpose installs for our  driveways paths and patios.

resin bonded stone advantages

Drive-cote Ltd resin path and step detail

However as the stone granule  is a natural product it can vary from supply to supply. The granules we were using over 10 years ago developed changes in the amount of oxide content which could have been for a number of reasons.   As the aggregate is sourced from the ground there is no uniformity to the oxide content.  The weather  can have an effect for example.

We favour the use of resin bonded applications on driveways which means the aggregate sits proud of the resin.  When the surface got wet in areas where there was a high oxide content it meant that the oxide leached out causing rust spots. As a result of this we investigated with our supplier coming to the conclusion that the best way forward was  to not use this particular media.  It was not faulty but depending on the amount of oxide it could look unattractive  recovering being the only solution.

This week is the first time we have heard about any driveway rust spots for some time and in conversation with the caller he did highlight that he was not local and that it was a bound install.

 

The bound install should mean that the granule is encapsulated in the resin so we were a little confused about the leaching as really the resin should have prevented the stone having contact with water and these driveway rust spots should not have developed.  We have suggested that he return to the installer and ask for a written report with regard to this to clarify a little more.  It was still early stages with regard to the investigation as to how to correct the situation and as the application was only 6month previous he was under guarantee.

Resin bonded stone – weed free – anti- slip – can be completed in a day. Chesterfield, Mansfield, Sutton in Ashfield, Kirkby in Ashfield, Gelding Arnold, Daybrook. If you want honest and friendly advice (free) fair and competitive pricing then call us for a chat. 01623 623986  Derbyshire,  Shirebrook,  Glapwell, Bramley Vale,  Mansfield Woodhouse free no obligation quotes.  Concrete, tarmac imprinted concrete. Path patio or driveway we can help .

rooftop resin slab project

December 12th, 2015

rooftop resin slab project

Waiting for a window of opportunity in the weather to complete a rooftop resin slab one of our last projects of the year.
A fairly unusual one for us as it was a concrete forecourt area which was also the roof slab to a large cellar below. The customer needed a solution to the tricky situation of a good solid roof but not very attractive surface. In addition this roof top needed an impermeable surface as there was a small amount of seepage through to the brand newly refurbished area below.
The customer had been researching their options on the internet and with local companies. Removal and excavation was not an option so our client knew they had to look at resurfacing. Tarmac was a consideration but in keeping with the area they wanted something more hard wearing, attractive and with a choice of colours.

Our client had seen works completed on the waterfront at Littlehampton.

This regeneration programme had specified a resilient, low maintenance surfacing option which would stand up the harsh seafront elements. The chosen product was a Resin Bonded System.
We have now been able to resurface the unsightly concrete forecourt ( as it originally was) and at the same time it will seal the roof and prevent the ingress of water to the newly refurbished area.
The choice of special media for this dual surface (not only a roof but also a parking area) dictated a hardwearing and road specification finish and now we have completed this rooftop resin slab.
This rooftop resin slab is now an anti slip, protective, decorative, textured surface  – available in a wide range of natural and recycled products. The base requirements are simple, solid and monolithic such as concrete or tarmac (imprinted concrete too). Our resin bonded stone is designed to use existing surfaces. Whilst new concrete and tarmac are also options curing times and cost can be prohibitive. Completed in a day is a possible on most residential projects meaning no mess and no disruption.

Mansfield, Chesterfield, Ashfield, Bolsover, Ilkeston Dronfield, Ravenshead

anti slip resin drive referral

November 30th, 2015

anti slip resin drive referral

We have recently completed a resin resurfacing job in Mansfield for a client. The up and coming weather and threat of freezing temperatures spurred them on for their anti slip resin drive.

 

We have over the past few years noticed an increase in the demand for resurfacing of imprinted concrete. Why? well we at Drive-Cote Ltd believe it is relative to the options available for sealing and protecting the imprinted concrete. Currently the seals and coatings currently available serve to protect the imprinted concrete, but at the same time do not offer adequate anti slip properties, and certainly not to the degree that an anti slip resin drive can. In fact the resin drive offers a degree of purchase and anti slip quality that most driveway surfaces cannot compete with. The resin bonded resurfacing allows the special granular aggregate to sit slightly proud of the resin offering the best anti slip qualities. Our resin bonded stone is a commercial product designed for thousands of cars breaking on it so it is well above driveway requirements.


The Mansfield client is over the moon with the works completed and dont forget weed free as well.
Quite a nice looking job to boot. In fact already we have had an anti slip resin drive referral from a local resident.

But remember chose a local reputable installer like Drive-Cote Ltd.  This time last year we were reporting  on rogue traders so ask to see an  example of works completed.

Mansfield, Nottingham,Ripley, Swanwick, Heanor, Belper, Alfreton, Chesterfield, Ravenshead and Kirkby in Ashfield

resin bound or a resin bonded surface

November 12th, 2015

resin bound or a resin bonded surface

Local enquiry querying whether to go for a resin bound or a resin bonded surface. The client had already had a quote for resin bound paving but was a little confused as to how that would work with the resin bound being permeable and the tarmac he has in place being impermeable.

The quoting company had said that the permeable resin bound surfacing would allow the water to permeate and infiltrate through and then would just drain away naturally. The caller had been mulling over the options and then came to us for a bonded quote. During the course of our conversation he did highlight the fact that he already had puddles and that was one of his concerns. There was a backfall to his property so if as the quoting company says, it drains away it would all fall to his property which would actually create different problem.

In our conversation I would say it wasn’t that the permeable resin bound company were necessarily incorrect on their idea. They may well have intended to install aco drainage across the front of his property to catch the excess water but he did not seem to be aware that this may be an option. His main concern was that as he already had puddles then that would mean the fall is not correct to ensure drainage, so if the water sits under the resin bound then it is only the top surface that is permeable. So surely the permeability is not as efficient was his understanding.
There is no quick fast fix for drainage and permeable surfaces. One shoe does not fit all. It depends if your budget is restricted, it depends if you want a weed free and anti slip option. It depends if run off water and/or the fall to the surface is correct.

Here at Drive-Cote Ltd we try and provide as much information as possible. We take each installation on its own merits. It is not just a case of a resin bound or a resin bonded surface – your choice. More a resin bound or a resin bonded surface which is the right and best choice for your driveway and the surface in question.
Kimberley, Brampton, Wingerworth, Bonsall , Ravenshead, Killamarsh, Ravenshead, Kirkby in Ashfield, Mansfield callus for an example of our works near to you.  Anti slip and virtually weed and maintenace free.

 

resin drive and gate entrance create kerb appeal

November 6th, 2015

EBT gate 001 resin drive and gate entrance creates kerb appealresin drive and gate entrance create kerb appeal

 

 

We at Drive-Cote Ltd are now creating custom and bespoke pieces of artwork in the form of gates.

From drawing to board

From board to gate

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Our gates are designed by our in house team – engineered, crafted and hand made to your specific size and requirements.
If you have a specific design in mind for your gates we can draft and design according to your requirements. Or if you need inspiration then look no further we can help.

Choice of ironmongery – heavy weight quality hinges and fittings.
Choice of colour and /or finish. Our favoured finish is with a quality Farrow and Ball exterior product, but if you have a preference then just give us a call.

So consider a unique, bespoke and original entrance to your property and with a resin drive and gate entrance create kerb appeal.

When we install resin drves and paths we are very often a part of the whole process.  Our clients will be renovating their property, having a landscaping project completed or resurfacing an entrance.  We are regularly asked if we do gates or if we know of someone.

We have completed quite a few projects recently and as a result of this provided bespoke and individual gates.

Resin Bonded Gravel , Resin Bonded Aggregate  providing an alternative to the usual options for your driveway path or patio. If it’s not broke don’t fix it.
We are based in Nottinghamshire but accessible to Yorkshire and Derbyshire areas. We have completed anti slip surfacing in Skegby, Aspley, Barnby Dun, Bilsthorpe, Bulwell, Cheadle Hulme, Clay Cross, Cotgrave,Doncaster, Fleckney, Huthwaite, Leamington Spa, Mansfield Woodhouse, New Houghton,  Pentrich, Peterborough, Ravenshead, Sellers Wood, Shirebrook, Spalding, Sutton Bonnington, Toton, Warsop, Worksop.