resin bonded gravel resin bound resurfacing

February 12th, 2014

resin bonded gravel resin bound resurfacing

resin bonded gravel resin bound surfacing  for driveways paths and patios

resin bonded gravel

A 2 layered system where the resin is applied to the existing surface. This is usually concrete, tarmac and imprinted concrete and the aggregate is applied to this .  This system  can be completed in a day and it can be trafficked in a couple of hours. It is a non-permeable system.  This originated from industrial use for roadways so is well above residential requirements.

Weed free and Anti slip resin bonded gravel resin bound resurfacing

resin bound resurfacing

Resin bound surfacing  More suitable for footpaths or free draining surfaces.  These do not require the same tensile strength needed for a driveway which has to  take the weight of a vehicle.

A  single layered system. This involves the aggregate and resin being mixed together in a mixer prior to installation. This coats the stone making it porous. The aggregate and resin are troweled and laid at a thicker depth than the resin bonded surface.  If laid on existing surfaces it can affect existing levels.

SUDS requirements are that the runoff water is “managed” for new surfaces.

THIS DOES NOT MEAN SURFACES  MUST  BE POROUS OR PERMEABLE

resin bonded gravel resin bound resurfacing started off with epoxy products.  Over the years the progression has been to polyurethane resins.  These are much more refined and provides greater performance.  Uv stability and longevity of the  resurfacing or surfacing option are also provided.  The  quality of the resin we use is supported by

Quality Assurance.

Products are manufactured to stringent procedures.  Every batch made is individually quality checked by  laboratories prior to despatch. They operate an ISO 9001:2008 Quality System. In addition they are externally audited by the BBA.

Our specialist area being in driveways, paths and patios for the residential market.  We enjoy the customer contact.  In this current financial climate we can provide a cost effective resurfacing option using existing surfaces. Such as concrete tarmac or imprinted concrete surfaces.  This means it is  not affected by the planning permission requirements some driveway options require.

Paths, patios and driveways.  Tarmac, concrete,  imprinted concrete we can resurface with a resin bonded stone installation.  A resin bonded driveway will create kerb appeal and enhance your garden. For an honest  assessment   for resin bonded gravel resin bound resurfacing. Call Drive-Cote Ltd

 

residential driveway path patio

February 11th, 2014

residential driveway path patio

What a mix of enquiries  this week.  Driveway paving and resin bonded stone requirements being for residential driveway path patio  clients.   We still do find that a lot of our clients do not realise the difference between resin bound and resin bonded stone.  However this is quite a common thing as currently most companies seem to favour the merits and applications for resin bound paving. And just as importantly even some of the companies do not realise the difference!

Perhaps it is because it seems to be installed on hardcore surfaces saving the mess and disruption involved in laying concrete or tarmac.

One of the enquiries we have been out to see this week  has been in South Derbyshire.  Not one for us to complete in the near future – probably later in the year.  They currently have  a concrete residential driveway path patio but are wanting to extend the driveway area.  We can  complete additional works for our clients as not all residential driveway path & patio areas are the ideal.However this client has family connections within the building industry.
This has provided us with a couple of options for this residential driveway path patio quote.

Option 1

To provide a quotation to incorporate additional hard standing area  (with appropriate drainage if required) and then to resurface the complete area with anti slip  weed free resin bonded aggregate (finish to be decided)

Option 2

To provide a quotation  to resurface with resin bonded aggregate  on an area already extended by the client family member.

The enquiry came to us as a result of a friend having had resin bonded aggregate installed.  We understand this was some time ago and as a result of seeing the resin bonded stone withstanding the test of time, our client decided to contact Drive-Cote Ltd.

This particular client has tarmac but the same could be applied to a concrete or imprinted concrete.

Nottingham, Derby, Chesterfield, Sheffield we can provide free no obligation quotes.

scatter coat resin bonded stone

February 8th, 2014

scatter coat resin bonded stonescatter coat resin bonded stone

scatter coat and  thin layer are  words  very often used by companies (who chose to use the resin bound option in areas where we do not advocate this) when describing resin bonded stone, resin bonded aggregate  and resin bonded gravel as it is also known.  Sometimes in a derogatory manner which is not very kind to a product we have been working with for over 12 years now.

Quite rightly our resin bonded stone (or thin scatter coat  resin bonded stone as it is very often described) needs a solid substrate.  The question is why?  Well that is because it is not the  “thin scatter coat resin bonded stone” that takes the weight of a vehicle it is the substrate.  Concrete imprinted concrete or tarmac being the optimum surface.  It is also stated that the scatter coat of aggregate can become loose over time, once again is not a fair statement.  It is also said that resin bound is more durable than scatter coat resin bonded stone – but our research contradicts this.

All our customer enquiries,  whether for resin bound paving or resin bonded aggregate are given the facts and the comparison differences between the two applications.

Cost

– resin bound is more expensive as more resin is used to encapsulate the stone.

Permeability

– resin bound is permeable resin bonded is not.   If a surface is permeable it can be subject to weeds and the freeze/thaw process.

Anti slip

– scatter coat resin bonded stone is anti slip – the angular non coated aggregate provides excellent adhesion and anti slip properties.  Resin bound stone provides a shiny surface as it is a covering for the stone.  This can be “anti slipped” so to speak but is nowhere as effective as the scatter coat  resin bonded stone.

The current climate includes  being green, climate friendly and suds compliant.

Our scattercoat resin bonded stone meets these criteria.  It is green as the polyurethane resin we use is non toxic, uv stable, does not require the removal of the existing concrete or tarmac.   Suds compliance  does not mean a surface has to be permeable, it means the run off water needs to be managed correctly.

Our research proves  that once the difference between the two  is clarified to the customer and they already have an existing surface, that they choose our scatter coat resin bonded stone.

If you don’t believe us call us now and ask for  local examples – Chesterfield, Sutton in Ashfield, Kirkby in Ashfield, Mansfield, Ilkeston, Ripley , Heanor.  Our resin bonded can provide a unique, attractive and durable protective surface.   Virtually no weeds and no mess .  We have recently been recalled to a property to complete the paths after completing their drive earlier on in the year.

Ecobuild is an annual show where your can “see the entire spectrum of sustainable construction products for new build and refurbishment of residential, commercial and industrial projects”

 

 

resin gravel driveway base – suitablity being key

February 2nd, 2014

resin gravel driveway base

Plenty of enquiries this week – ranging from Sheffield, Mansfield, Ilkeston  and Chesterfield  to Kensington!    However not all good solid enquiries so to speak.  Resin gravel driveway base suitability can be an issue.  If the base is not a good solid installation then we need to consider alternative measures or installations.  Fortunately we have a good team and a good range of contacts to be able to offer a solution in most cases.

Because the resin gravel driveway base needs to be a solid monolithic area to provide a stable and durable support for vehicles – it is imperative we ensure the suitability  (hence the need to visit potential works). We have had a return visit from a client whose driveway we resurfaced last year.  Our client wants us to now complete  a resin bonded gravel application for the concrete paths  areas.  Due to refurbishment of the property and the crazy wet weather  (some say the wettest for 100 years) we have been experiencing they have found it necessary to anti slip and protect it from the elements sooner than they expected.  The weed situation can be quite a problem as well.  The cracks in the surface we are intending to resurface are prone to attacks by weeds and once weeds get a hold they can really be an issue.  And they certainly need nipping in the bud.

This  return client  job   will be completed later in the year.  The property is being renovated so there are other works to complete first anyway.

A local car dealership from Nottingham has been in touch looking for a solution  to a problem they have.  An oil leak has left a nasty and permanent reminder on a clients drive. One of their courtesy cars had leaked.  Our resin bonded stone ( or aggegrate as it is also known) may be a solution and from the information provided there would be no issues with a resin gravel driveway base being an effective option for hiding this mark. However to be fair –  a tarmac paint would remedy the situation, however this would not offer the resistance to further oil spillage or  for the long term.

resin bound gravel creating resin drives

January 30th, 2014

resin bound gravel creating resin drives

The popularity of “makeovers” over the years has increased.  Homes –  interiors – gardens.   Cost effective resin bonded stone developed as a result  of road resurfacing.  Resin bound gravel creating resin drives –  developed a few years later.  The solution to the resurfacing of existing concrete, tarmac and imprinted concrete.  To provide kerb appeal!

This time of year the weather can be quite an issue not only for existing driveways paths and patios but for the installation of resin bound gravel and resin bonded gravel.  So be  wary of any promises  of installations at this time of year!

The opportunity for a resin bound gravel creating resin drives can be an expensive option and an important factor is the permeability.

Resin bonded gravel creating resin drives is a more durable option in our experience than resin bound gravel creating resin drives.  This is because it does not affect existing levels, seals the surface and very importantly.  provides an anti slip surface.  This  is particularly important when it comes to imprinted concrete.  Sealing an imprinted concrete is a necessary evil (so to speak)  in order to maintain the longevity and this in turn can provide a slippery surface.  Not a good surface in winter.

Over the years we have had requests for resurfacing with resin bound gravel creating resin drives, however that is not the route we would choose.

Why?

Well a number of reasons – if a permeable product (resin bound) is installed on an impermeable surface (tarmac, concrete, imprinted concrete) where does the permeating water go?  If it sits between the two surfaces it could freeze and thaw and possibly result in the freeze/thaw process and damage the existing surface.  The Environmental Agency provides information on local risk areas for flooding, in addition they are a good source of general information.

Weeds – do not necessarily  grow up through existing surfaces such as concrete and tarmac.   Trees and plants  – seeds are embedded in open textures (tarmac and concrete spalled) or any little cracks that may appear, and when weeds get a hold this can deteriorate the surface further.

Block paving is not a surface we can work with when a vehicle is involved.  The reason being that the blocks move independently and therefor does not provide a solid monolithic surface.  This being really the optimum to be structurally sound.  Block paving can be used to add detail though if required.

Mansfield, Nottingham, Derby, Chesterfield, Matlock, Skegby  or Teversal.  Just some of the areas we have completed works over  the past 12 years.  In fact we have just received a call from a previous customer wanting their path completing after we completed there drive last year.

resin drive discounts are they value for money

January 25th, 2014

resin drive discounts are they value for money

Well there’s a question to ask!  resin drive discounts are they value for money – It is the same with most offers  you have to decide if they are genuine or value for money.

Perhaps when considering resin drive discounts are they value for money, is to first as why?

Is it defective stock?

Is it excess stock?

Is is a new product?

Is it a previous order made and then cancelled?

There are always opportunities and good quality discounts and offers out there, but as with most things you have to assess the facts and decide from there.

Are they a local company?

Has anyone  you know  used this company?

Are they a member of an approved contractor scheme?  – Now there is one to ask.  We have recently seen an approved contractor scheme  being discussed – ” I believe ‘Approved Installer/Assured’ schemes to be commercial suicide depending on the quality of the Area” says one contributor to a discussion – not on resin drives though.

One of the key things to remember is to always ask for more information.  In these tough times, a business may only want to just have enough business to keep him, his staff and his business continuing.  Larger concerns may have larger ambitions so

” resin drive discounts are they value for money”  can be a business specific offer and a valuable one so don’t dismiss it !

However also consider that not all offers are marketed heavily on line.

The driveway, building, gardening and landscaping business can be a tough industry and new products are always out there so to see discounts is not unusual.

We as a business do not tend to have discounts such as this,  as all our works are based on individual needs to the customer and circumstances and area.  We would be foolish to offer a firm price discounted or otherwise  apart from a very basic indication when we first speak to clients.

Our resin drive business has been in force for over 12 years, and we pride ourselves on bespoke installations.  Whether it is concrete, tarmac or imprinted concrete, whether it is a path or patio our resin has the potential to be used whether it is for a resin bonded gravel drive or resin bonded aggregate path.  Virtually maintenance and weed free we can offer an anti slip resurfacing option.  An invaluable option for the winter months.

Mansfield, Chesterfield, Tibshelf,  Alfreton, Ilkeston, Sutton in Ashfield, Ripley, Nottingham,  we can work within a 60 mile radius of Mansfield.

 

resin bonded aggregate resurfacing concrete expansion strips

January 20th, 2014

 resin bonded aggregate resurfacing concrete expansion strips

What are they? Do we need them?  Yes for the purpose of concrete, but not for resin bonded aggregate resurfacing.

Because our product is a resin we can fill these with our specialist filler and completely resurface , thus preventing the ingress of water and the potential for weeds.

Unfortunately our resin bonded aggregate resurfacing concrete expansion strip solution is more expensive than a coat of  concrete  paint but it is a more durable option.

January last year we were covered in snow in Nottinghamshire   This year we have been lucky so far- but it is only early days.

Don’t forget the resin bonded aggregate resurfacing concrete expansion strips are there for a reason.  We resurface,  we do not remove and our product is only as good as the base we install it on.  Tarmac being a more porous product does not have to have expansion strips, however tarmac comes with its own problems – the freeze/ thaw and flooding  process for instance.  Imprinted concrete needing to be resealed on regular basis.  Why  not just have an access area?  Imprinted concrete when laid correctly can look really impressive and offer a bespoke option for your property. So if you find it is too slippery why not just have a section completed with our resin bonded aggregate.

According to the BBC  news today

“The council’s highways maintenance contractors are being deployed to carry out repairs before predicted colder weather worsens the problem”.  With our resin bonded resurfacing you can prevent, protect and extend your driveway path or patio.

resin drive quotes Arnold, Kirkby in Ashfield, Holmewood

January 15th, 2014

resin drive quotes Arnold, Kirkby in Ashfield, Holmewood

Very busy this week with resin drive quotes in Arnold,  Kirkby in Ashfield,  Holmewood on the agenda.

We would like to say that all enquiries will have the perfect surface for our resin bonded aggregate but that is not the case. One of the benefits of our resurfacing is the fact that it extends and prolongs the life of the existing tarmac, concrete or imprinted concrete.  So for the surface to be perfect is not necessary.    Perhaps the bad weather  in other countries is instilling a little bit of urgency – who knows.   We believe that resin is becoming more popular and this could be one reason.   There are currently lots of commercial jobs  particularly in the South and London area.
resin drive quotes Arnold, Kirkby in Ashfield, Holmewood

One of our resin drive quotes Arnold, Kirkby in Ashfield, Holmewood  had a new concrete driveway  extension piece and wants to tie in the old concrete with the new concrete so our resin bonded stone  is perfect for this.  Remember we can incorporate paths as well.

Tarmac is another of the surfaces we are to quote on.  Not sure of the condition of this one though may be a freeze/ thaw situation or just old and tired.  The surfaces in need of our resin bonded stone vary greatly.  We have found that imprinted  concrete in the past has played a large amount in our work.  Imprinted concrete requiring sealing to protect can add an element of slipperiness whilst protecting the surface!

Wet weather resin is still a valid point of discussion with a lot of our enquiries. Our customers are doing their homework and finding out there is a difference between resin bound and resin bonded. In addition they also ask the question can resin bonded and resin bound  be laid when it is wet.  The answer to this is very simple no!  Damp is different – but remember  damp in Winter is also different than damp in Summer.

Resin is such an invaluable commodity it is durable and environmentally friendly and has a plethora of uses.  We as  a driveway Company only use it for one aspect, but there are lots more uses for this versatile product.

We have seen it noted  by some companies that resin bonded stone is not as durable as resin bound stone.  However what a lot of these companies either fail to realise or fail to highlight, the actual use of resin on driveways paths and patios stems from the application on roadways and highways, as an anti skid product, so it is well above driveway specification.  It has got to be tough stuff if the highways uses it.

Mansfield, Ashfield and Bolsover. East Midlands.  Tollerton is on the agenda for next week.  so whether it is tarmac or cconrete protect and prolong with resin bonded aggregate.

 

resin bonded stone resurfacing borders

January 12th, 2014

Enquiry quoted recently for local Nottinghamshire  area has given us the go ahead.

resin bonded stone resurfacing borders

This client first wanted to establish if they could have resin bonded resurfacing borders for their potential works.   They had considered having a pigmented coloured finish for the border.  A natural aggregate finish for the infill.  Some of our driveways and patios can be enhanced with borders. Resin bonded stone resurfacing borders add interest and detail.  But as with the colour of the finish chosen –  they can also create a visual distortion and not give the best representation of the area.  This particular surface is misshapen geometrically  and to include a border would  emphasise  the un- uniform area.  In addition it is quite a small area and providing a border would only serve to minimise the area. Steps are also built into the driveway and there is a  quite steep slope and concrete path to the side elevation. So quite a busy area.

Our customer has ordered for completion later in the year as various works are being completed at the address

This client had received an alternative quote in addition to ours from another local company.  Competition is good for all businesses. The more other companies market and sell  their products and services, the more they inform and educate people.
resin bonded stone resurfacing borders

We have completed borders on some of our previous works and they can add a really nice interest and kerb appeal with decorative detail. Our A-Z highlights the benefit
resin bonded stone resurfacing borders

One or two enquiries coming through for resurfacing of imprinted concrete.  We tend to find that at this time of year the safety aspect rears its head.  With resin bonded stone resurfacing borders we can just apply  pathways or external areas of imprinted concrete creating a smaller anti slip area.

Tarmac, concrete, imprinted concrete paths drives and patios we can advise.  Drive-Cote Ltd in Mansfield  for a weed free maintenance free option.  No more sealing.  Remember a driveway can create kerb appeal and compliment your garden and house.

resin bonded aggregate hard landscaping badgers and foxes

January 7th, 2014

 

DSCN4792resin bonded aggregate hard landscaping badgers and foxes

We have been working on a garden project during the summer and will continue now over Winter to some degree.  Why ? Because either badgers or foxes (or possibly both) have totally ravaged the lawned areas we have installed .

Here are pictures of what has happended over night!  We have been and tried to seal the area. This garden had previously been visited by the mole fairy!  but we had sorted that problem!

What we as a race must realise is that there is a consequence to everything.  I was listening to the astronaut  on a channel 4 programme who had seen the earth’s  problems –  both man made and natural.  He said you can’t stop them –  there are too many of us.  You can only try and solve the problems!

On this garden project we dallied with the idea of artificial grass, but wanted to maintain a level of natural elements in the garden.  The question is – had we installed artificial grass would the area have been less appealing to the badger/foxes? Indeed would it have been less appealing to the insects and food they were foraging for?badgers and foxes damage

The garden has areas of hard landscaping, some of which involve resin bonded hard landscaping, but not too much.  We consider the surface and the area and the reason for all projects.  The area this garden has with resin bonded aggregate  is relatively small in comparison to the rest of the area.

Natural habitats are in the decline for these badgers and foxes and  together with their need to look for food  they are searching gardens and in some cases living in garden areas.

We need to be respectful of the wildlife, but at the same time not offer too tempting an environment.  What we suggest is a mix. Hard landscaping, but also to incorporate a natural element.  Over the years the environment has changed and continues to change.  What choices we made 10 or 20 years ago are not necessarily the same choice we should make now.