There is a myth that driveway surfaces have to be perfect before any level of resin aggregate can be laid. Fear not, as this is not the case (though there are some important preparatory steps that have to be undertaken, to ensure a quality, long-lasting surface!). Resin surfaces can really improve the look of a home and could really increase the property value, too. With that in mind, in this article the experts at Yorkshire Resin Company take a look at the surfaces resin can be laid upon, and the preparation required.
Resin Bound Systems
Resin bound systems need a strong and sturdy sub-base to which the resin can be installed – this can be new or existing! Some typical examples of an existing or a newly laid foundation can be asphalt, concrete and tarmac. Other monolithic materials are also acceptable.
A level surface is most suitable for the installation of resin bound systems, however it is not a necessity. If you have a varied or uneven surface, simply adding more resin and aggregate will level the surface off to a high standard before the remaining installation takes place. The key is that the surface needs to be sturdy and free of any serious defects.
Tarmac Surfaces
Tarmac is one of the most popular and common surfaces to lay resin upon. Most permeable resin paving materials can be applied directly onto an existing surface, or if you wait an appropriate amount of time, a newly installed tarmac surface. Because of the weight of the resin aggregate, any tarmac surface must have adequate depth to accommodate the extra materials.
Concrete Surfaces
Existing concrete has to be cleaned thoroughly before it is primed with polymer. If the primer is not laid beforehand, the two surfaces will not successfully work together. There is one way of rectifying the issue should this occur – start again with a new batch of resin. This method is a costly outcome, so it is best to avoid this by properly priming the concrete before laying any resin surfaces.
A Different Kind of Surface
If you like to set yourself apart from the crowd, eco grid systems are also appropriate sub-bases for resin bound aggregates. The only downside to this is that you have to double the quantity of the resin mixture, so laying resin on an eco-grid system can become costly.
