resin bound enquiries Nottingham, Mansfield, Belper

March 20th, 2014

resin bound enquiries Nottingham, Mansfield, Belper

Busy week this week with resin bound enquiries Nottingham, Mansfield, Belper, Ripley.   It must be the weather that is bringing the interest in,  However we are aware that one of our customers had seen the resin bound surfacing at the Grand design show recently.  We are also aware that some of the resin bound enquiries Nottingham, Mansfield, Belper are as a result of a recent leaflet drop we have completed in these areas and some are as a result of  the recent  Eco build show.

One of our enquiries was also from the South of the country.  This enquiry had had a resin bound paving installation on top of  a concrete driveway – some thing we would not do.  Why?  Because as we say a permeable product on an impermeable surface ( such as concrete and imprinted concrete  is not a combination we work with).  On having a chat with this enquiry, he was having no problem with regard to this but after 5 months he was finding the surface in need of cleaning.  He was unsure about how to clean it and whether a jet wash would be an issue. he had contacted his installer but just wanted another opinion. Ours being to just use a hose pipe and stiff brush.

This gentleman also had a section of his driveway heated!  Wow what an option  not really a necessity this year so for but who knows.

The gentleman had the heating on only part of the driveway, but all of his path and patio.  It had been installed

beneath the  concrete, with the resin bound installation then on top of this.  Anti slip surfacing is key with
resin bonded applications, but less aggressive resin bound is in our opinion not as effective.  However
a heated driveway may not require the anti slip property so keenly. However we would question the efficacy with regard to a  weed free surface.

We had installed a resin bonded aggregate finish over  a concrete surface 7 years ago and during this time a tree which had shown no sign of invading the driveway at the time, has taken hold and totally lifted the driveway.  We are going to view next week.  Trees can affect the land and surrounding areas so vastly.  With the changes in the weather, perhaps this has a bearing on the growth

resin bonded resurfacing maintenance

March 15th, 2014

resin bonded resurfacing maintenance

Now that is a question – resin bonded resurfacing maintenance – what does it entail?  The answer to this is  very little  really.

We have had  a call from a previous client from Kirkby in Ashfield. We had resurfaced their tarmac drive over a year ago.  Being a driver,  this client had wanted the resurfacing for a number of reasons.   A couple of the key reasons being anti slip and weed free.  Key aspects on why they chose resin bonded aggregate .

Another reason they wanted the resin bonded aggregate installed was because the tarmac was not broken.  However it was very susceptible to moss and algae.   They wanted to use this existing surface or recycle it!    If a surface is more aggressive and impermeable  the moss and algae can get less of a grip.  This in turn makes it a lot easier to remove moss and algae – a quick jet wash and stiff brush is all that is required.  A lot of external surfaces – concrete, paving slabs block paving  can need more extensive works to remove any moss and or algae and to maintain.  There is the consideration of the surrounding elements as well.  For example a more tree lined leafy and /or shaded area would be more susceptible to moss and algae.

Tarmac has a degree of porosity and permeability which makes it difficult to remove weeds, moss and algae.  With our  resin bonded resurfacing maintenance is virtually eliminated.

Back to this client – they had left their car in situ for quite a period of time.  They were concerned that the resin bonded resurfacing maintenance would require a more commercial clean.  However, we were able to reassure this client that all that was required was a quick jet wash and stiff brush ( which their son could easily complete within an hour or so).

resin bonded resurfacing maintenance resin bonded resurfacing maintenance resin bonded resurfacing maintenance

That is it then –  resin bonded resurfacing maintenance completed.  Call us now  01623 623986. We are based in Mansfield .  No sales men. Contact Simon or Faith and have a chat.

From where we are based in the East Midlands (the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire border) we can resurface your driveway path or patio. Providing you with a weed free alternative to the usual block paving, imprinted concrete, tarmac, and concrete options. Beeston, Bolsover,  Clowne, Teversal, Edwinstowe, Gedling, Kirkby in Ashfield, Loughborough Matlock, Newthorpe, Old Whittington, Radcliffe on Trent, Saddleworth , Sheffield, Sleaford, Stone, Walesby,  or Wollaton.

new to resin bonded gravel ask the experts

March 12th, 2014

new to resin bonded gravel

For those of you new to resin bonded stone have a look at our website.  We try to update with the works we are completing on a regular basis. Please feel free to view our images for a visual impact if you are new to resin bonded gravel.

Drive-Cote Ltd is an  independent company.  We are not a franchise nor are we affiliated to any other company completing resin drives, paths or patios.

For details of works we have completed local to you  in Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire,Yorkshire and Lincolnshire call us.  Towns listed as follows are an example of where we have worked – Bestwood Village, Boughton, Calverton, Chilwell, Codnor,Daybrook, Elston, Gleadless, Mickleover, Normanton on Trent, Ollerton. Rainworth, Sandiacre, Sheldon, Somercotes, Stonegravels, Swanwick and Whitwell.

There is a lot of confusing information out there.  It pays to investigate and talk to some of the companies out there.  So if you are new to resin bonded stone or looking at it as an option call us now.  Over 12 years experience must count!  Call us to find out.

Some of our enquiries do ask if it is a product that they can use themselves. Well we would hesitate to provide a blanket answer of yes especially if you are new to resin bonded gravel.  The paving expert is a good resource for all things paving.

new to resin bonded gravel

On their website it says

“Whichever method of application is used, the resin sets relatively quickly – usually within 1 hour, and so needs to be worked efficiently to ensure the resin and the aggregates are spread, leveled and smoothed before it becomes too stiff. For this reason, this type of surfacing is best laid by experienced, specialist contractors, although, for smaller areas, such as garden paths, patios and small driveways, it can be done by competent DIY’ers!”

So if you are new to resin bonded stone browse our site and look on the paving expert, and feel free to call us and have a free no obligation discussion.

permeable driveways

March 9th, 2014

permeable driveways

Uk being not the only country highlighting the interest in permeable driveways.

The Miami Herald recently reports

“One of the biggest benefits of permeable pavement systems — which work like a sponge to soak water through pavement and into the ground — is their ability to prevent chemicals and debris from entering storm drains and eventually, lakes, rivers and oceans.

Rain instead percolates through stone- or soil-filled joints between pavers or through pores in expanses of pavement and into an underground gravel base that filters gasoline, car oil and other contaminants from the water.

Because more precipitation soaks into the ground, rather than running down the nearest storm drain, permeable pavement reduces flash flooding and erosion. It also helps replenish the water table and limit how much water is needed for landscaping.

In addition, permeable systems reduce the need for subsurface drains, piping and sewers that local governments build to accommodate runoff.

Permeable pavement works for just about any hardscape project, including walkways, patios and driveways. These systems function ideally in areas that flood frequently or provide poor drainage. Permeable pavement is popular in the Pacific Northwest, in rainy cities such as Seattle and Portland, Ore.

There are two main types of permeable paving:

• Pavers, which come in all shapes, sizes and designs, from small bricks to large stones.

• Porous pavement, which looks similar to cottage cheese and can be made from concrete or asphalt.

If properly constructed, permeable pavement can last for 20 or more years. These systems require little maintenance, often only periodic removal of debris from joints or holes with a small wet-dry vacuum.

Permeable systems can cost two to four times more than a regular paving project, but may also save you the cost of an erosion solution. Pavers can range from $12 to $16 each, installed. A permeable driveway can cost $5,000 or more. Some local governments offer tax breaks to property owners who install these pavement systems”

 

permeable driveways tax incentive

Now there is in idea –  if permeable driveways were installed in the UK would we benefit from any tax incentive breaks?  Helping to contribute to a reduction in flooding?  Perhaps a consideration with permeable driveway paving systems for paths and patios?

Do consider when installing any surface aspects such as cost? efficacy? installation  time? weeds, anti slip properties and the durability of the product.

resin bonded stone differing opinions

March 6th, 2014

resin bonded stone differing opinions

Resin bonded stone and resin bound paving have been around now for quite a few years.  However there is still a lot of confusion over the

permeability  and or porosity

Anti slip  quality

Depth of application

for example.

In addition to this there is the varying descriptive terms for the resin bonded and resin bound stone used on the internet.

What is the reason for these resin bonded stone differing opinions ?  Ignorance? Misunderstanding? Misleading? Not really sure. However sometimes the descriptive terms of the application can confuse  creating resin bonded stone differing opinions .

Although  resin bonded paving and resin bound paving (or stone) may be similar in name they are different both in installation and the final finish.  Resin bonded stone  requires  a structurally solid  surface  (monolithic).  Tarmac, imprinted concrete and concrete  for example.resin bonded stone differing opinions

 Some companies market resin bound as the more superior of the two, however we believe is is incorrect.  One shoe does not fit all and resin bound installations do not provide the same benefits as a resin bonded installation.  They offer DIFFERENT benefits!

It is said by some companies that resin bound offers a maintenance free option – however we believe that resin bonded stone offers this as it is anti slip and requires only a stiff brush one a year.  Resin bound is porous and therefore can be susceptible to weed and moss growth.  (Remember weeds can be seeded by wind so they do not need to grow up they only need to be able to embed).

Thin and  impermeable are words used for resin bonded stone ( and this statement serves to compound resin bonded stone differing opinions ).  Impermeability offers the highest chance of a weed free surface.

One of the key aspects to remember is that if you want to use your existing surface –  if the existing level is correct, then you do not want to increase the level to any great degree as it will affect the existing levels – dpc? butting to the garage door ?

Other things to consider or to at least investigate are why do you want the surface?  is there a surface already in place? is it for a garden path, or a patio or is it a driveway?  What condition is the surface in?

resin bonded resin bound make do and mend

February 28th, 2014

resin bonded resin bound make do and mend

Is that a  fair statement resin bonded resin bound make do and mend- really?   If you have a good solid surface such as concrete and tarmac then our resin bonded resurfacing is the way forward.

Why?

Because if what you have is not broken (so to speak) why fix it? By that we mean – why  remove your existing – concrete, tarmac imprinted concrete?

Why have the cost of skip?

Why have the mess and disruption?

There is no reason to have any of this!

Concrete in particular is such a valuable  (admittedly not always attractive) product.  However it is used worldwide because of its strength.  Recently with the sink holes  appearing the result has been to fill with concrete so that is a recommendation in itself!

Resin bonded resin bound make do and mend is another durable option for a driveway, path or patio.  Resin is used in so many ways – waterproofing boats for example.  If it is good enough for boats then it is good enough  to stand up to this horrendous wet weather we are experiencing.  Reports are saying the wettest for 100 years!   Just think if you have owned your property for say 20 years and it was build say 20 years ago – then look at your driveway  and paths.  Have they been down as long?  If so  how good is the concrete?  Well if it is visually worn and tired that does not make a reason to get rid.  You  may not get as good a surface as 2nd time round – so

resin bonded resin bound make do and mend!

so to speak.

I have excluded tarmac on this but to be fair tarmac can be just as solid.

We have had an enquiry this week from a local Mansfield resident. We are happy to provide free no obligation quotes.  We have just been to see a local resident who has seen our resin in situ and as a result called us up.  Remember our anti slip option will extend and life of your existing surface. No free thaw effect.

Nottingham commercial resin bound area

February 26th, 2014

Nottingham commercial resin bound area

We received a call recently for a Nottingham commercial resin bound area  that had been completed some short time ago (not more than a year I am sure).

The resin bound surface had been installed using a natural aggregate finish.  However the Nottingham commercial resin bound area was having a few difficulties. Namely it had some patches that were lifting.  Only small but they were of detriment visually to the Nottingham commercial resin bound area.

I am not sure why they did not return to contact their installer, however, that aside, we went this week to have a look.  The client had very kindly taken some images  beforehand so we knew what we were looking for.

On arrival at the site (never very easy access in Nottingham) we could see the offending patches.  Quite a few by all accounts.  We had a good inspection of the site and then returned to contact the client for this Nottingham commercial resin bound area.
DSCN4799

We informed the client, that yes it is repairable.  However we did notice a couple of things with the installation and any repair works would not eliminate the long term problem.

  1.  Resin bound is permeable but it had been laid on an impermeable base (namely concrete)
  2. Various areas had had holes drilled to allow drainage of water.

This obviously is a bit of a contradiction as resin bound is permeable so to ensure the efficacy of the porosity the surface underneath should also be porous – concrete is not.

The holes added after would not resolve the problem as it would only allow water through to the areas that were drilled.  If these have been  drilled through to below the concrete it may offer a part solution

This Nottingham commercial resin bound area is only used for foot traffic so after such a short period of time, it should not be causing a problem.

Reasons for this?   Incorrect application/installation?   Why?

Because a permeable  resin surface on an impermeable surface doesn’t  work.  The water can sit between the two surfaces and cause a problem.

We will however repair if required, as it would be false economy to leave it as it is.  We have suggested that this customer return to the installer first so they get the opportunity to remedy the damage.

Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield and Chesterfield are just some of the areas we cover.  Call us  here in Mansfield anytime for a free no obligation chat.

permeable paving options slow uptake

February 22nd, 2014

permeable paving options slow uptake

According to the BBC news report  –

UK going in ‘wrong direction’ on flooding, experts say

 By Roger Harrabin Environment analyst
“Development appears to be continuing in areas of significant flood risk despite planning controls. Urban green space is being lost and gardens are being paved over. Permeable paving options are available but their take-up appears very low.”

Permeable paving slow uptake is not a surprise.  Not only is it expensive, it has the potential to harbour organic matter – weeds – moss -algae.  Certain  impracticality  such as the hygiene element with regards to pets ( the ability for urine and faeces to permeate through cannot be a good thing – can it?)

In addition the requirement  of suds is to manage the run off water –  it is not that it must be a permeable surface so this should be remembered when saying permeable paving options slow uptake.  Could this be a reason why?

Everything we as a race do has an effect.  Where we remove organic matter to  the extent that we are currently doing this,  and then  replace it  with hard non organic materials like concrete for developments and roadways, then this is bound to affect all things.  Wildlife for example – the water table –  being included as well.

We need to take stock now of what we are doing and the effects.  The Prime Minister says money is no object, but it is no good throwing good money after bad.  We need to address this very carefully.

We have been fortunate in Mansfield compared to other Counties, however as  large developments increase in the area  (on Berry Hll Lane the new Miller Homes development is providing 19 homes on what size area? ) The blame on permeable paving options slow uptake – pales in to insignificance compared with the “footprint” these large developments with be leaving.

Sink holes seem to be appearing at present as well.  What is all this about?  The sea is reclaiming some of the land.  In December it was reported “The worst tidal surge for more than 60 years battered coastal towns along the east coast of Britain last night”

No single solution is available.  Permeable paving options slow uptake not being fully to flame then.   We have to readdress how we do things now! before it is too late.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gardens driveways drainage floods are we to blame

February 19th, 2014

Gardens driveways drainage floods

Gardens driveways drainage floods – all being discussed in great detail over the past few weeks.  Who is to blame?  Can anyone be blamed for gardens driveways drainage floods?

Blame cannot be directed  to any one particular cause  or can it ?  Is it the large housing developments  the UK is under pressure to produce?  Is it paving over driveways?  Or is it global warming?  Or is it all these things?

I have seen a couple of reports recently  and one or two discussions over the last day or two  and even Alan  Titchmarsh has waded into the debate (excuse the pun).

In the report which Alan Titchmarsh commented on  it goes on to say

 

“Lord Krebs claimed driveways and patios let rain-water run straight into rivers and led to flooding”

He said: “We need TV gardeners to tell people not to put down patios and decking.”

It is even said that experts believe floodwaters won’t now ebb until the summer!  Will we see a drought then?

Lots of opinions on landscape Juice   One of  the contributors on the network goes on to say

“The paving /tarmac and loss of soil may lead to a bit more surface water but nothing to do with the floods we are seeing now. I blame what we are getting now on climate change”

and another  opinion as follows:

“Also if the planning authorities allow building on flood plains and you buy a house on a flood plain guess what? the clue is in the name “Flood plain” your house will Flood!! so dont blame anyone else but yourself for the purchase. If you want to live in a house near a river then every now and then expect to be flooded….dont blame the agenicies for not dredging It”

Climate changes? Bad planning and management?

Gardens driveways drainage floods whatever the cause, whatever the result, we need to be more respectful of the environment.

As a resin bonded aggregate company we work with drainage all the time.  Recyling and managing water and waste  is key.  We must all try. Things will not get any better, but what we do have to do is manage the best we can.

 

concrete as resin drive base

February 15th, 2014

concrete as resin drive base

The weather certainly seems to be taking its toll on the  UK over the past few weeks .  From rains and floods to tree and damaging storms.  The recent reports in the papers  show the extent of the full force of the weather.  This has resulted in spray concrete  currently being used as a temporary barrier.  Have doe a little investigation as we did consider if  spray concrete as resin drive base was an option but it isn’t well  not yet) This report goes on to say

“Around 80 m of sea wall has been destroyed by high tides and stormy seas, causing a significant stretch of railway to collapse into the sea. The road adjacent to the railway and several houses have also been damaged, along with damage at Dawlish station itself and several other sites in the area.

Rail and concrete sleepers that once carried trains along the sea wall have been cut away and placed across the bottom of the damaged section. These are gradually being reinforced with sprayed fast-drying concrete, which will form a temporary barrier to take the brunt of today’s forecast heavy seas”
Read more

Concrete as resin drive base

(  tarmac as well ) is a real must to ensure longevity and suitability for the weight of a vehicle. In these currently trying times,  it pays to ensure good preparation and installation of a base  in the first place and certainly before resin bonded aggregate is used as  resurfacing.   Some of these surfaces, concrete, tarmac, imprinted concrete  have been in place for years without problem.   Wind rain storms  – non have had such an effect .  Here in Mansfield we suffered our own  mini tornado  as reported in the Mansfield Chad.

Concrete as resin drive base is an excellent  product.  Very often concrete is dismissed due to its lack of visual appeal, which is where our resin bonded resurfacing  can offer a solution.  Important to remember as well is the key need for a solid base for any vehicular access.  A base is not just as layer of concrete or tarmac, there is a lot of skill and knowledge when laying a driveway, path or patio.  If laid correctly it can last a lifetime.concrete as a resin drive base

In Nottingham the storm stopped the trains !  Driveways paths and patios are all subject to potential damage with the weather battering the uk.  So maintain what you have.  If you replace it,  it may not be as good as the original!

Based in  Mansfield Nottinghamshire.  We have completed anti slip  resin bonded resurfacing  in Skegby,  Aspley,   Bilsthorpe, Bulwell,  Clay Cross, Cotgrave,  Huthwaite,  Mansfield Woodhouse, New Houghton, Northampton, Pentrich,  Ravenshead, Sellers Wood, Shirebrook, Spalding,  Toton, Warsop, Worksop, Chesterfield.  Look no further and resurface what you already have.