24 Apr Answering The Most Commonly Asked Resin Drive Questions
Homeowners looking for an alternative to conventional asphalt, gravel or stone work have increasingly been drawn to resin driveways, which have become increasingly popular as a cost-effective, practical and beautiful place to park their cars.
Praised for their versatility, permeability and durability, many people are interested, but will naturally have quite a few questions given that an installation is a significant commitment.
With that in mind, here are some of the most common questions that get asked and the answers.
What Is A Resin Driveway?
Sometimes known as a “stone carpet”, a resin driveway is a mix of adhesive resin and dried aggregate either mixed together and laid onto an appropriately prepared surface (for resin-bound drives), or with the latter scattered over a pre-prepared layer of the former (for resin-bonded).
Either way provides a durable surface that is ideal for drives but is also suitable for patios, paths and other places where aesthetics and durability are required.
Are All Resin Driveways Porous
It depends on the type of resin driveway installed as resin-bonded and resin-bound drives have quite different properties.
The main difference between the two is that resin-bound surfaces are smooth and porous, whilst resin-bonded tends to be rougher and is not inherently porous.
As long as the resin-bound drive is swept clear of debris and gently washed, it will remain porous for years to come.
How Long Do Resin Drives Take To Install?
The exact timescales can vary considerably, depending on the size and complexity of the job, but it can take between two days and a week on average from the start of work to completion.
This includes the time to prepare the surface, lay a suitable base layer, apply the resin, extensively cure it and finish it to ensure a perfectly smooth finish.
When you request a quote, the driveway expert you contact will be able to give you an idea of the timescales.
Once the work is finished, it can usually be stepped on a few hours later and be perfectly stable.
Would My Existing Drive Need To Be Dug Up?
Resin drives can often be laid over existing road and driveway surfaces if they are suitable to be prepared accordingly, something that an expert contractor will be able to tell you quite quickly.
Generally, however, if the surface is in good enough condition to be used anyway, there’s often no reason to destroy it.
Would I Need Planning Permission?
Typically, permeable driveways are covered under permitted development rights, but as with any project of this type, it is always best to contact your local planning authority to confirm that your house is not an exception to these rules
Would A Resin Driveway Support A Van?
If properly installed on the right structural base, resin drives are perfectly fine supporting most regular vehicles, but if you have a particularly heavy van or lorry parked on the surface, it would be best to consult a professional to ensure that its durability and lifespan would not be overly affected.
How Long Do Resin Driveways Last?
This depends on how well it is installed and how well it is maintained, but you can expect your resin driveway to last at least a decade. We guarantee our driveways for ten years and they often last far longer than this.