Choosing the right material for your driveway is very important, particularly in the UK where temperatures can vary from freezing cold in the winter to scorching hot in the summer.
Resin paths are an ideal choice, as they can cope well in all weather conditions. As we go into the cold season, here are just some reasons why resin is a great surface for the winter.
– Prevents puddles
Resin has a porous texture, which means rainwater is able to drain through it. Its permeability, therefore, prevents water collecting and creating puddles.
This also means that there is a lower risk of ice forming on the surface, as water is able to soak through the resin instead of remaining on the top and freezing.
The average temperature during winter is between two and seven degrees, but it can frequently dip below zero degrees celsius, meaning other driveways will be prone to getting icy over the season.
However, resin bound driveways will remain ice-free, making them safer to walk on.
A major advantage of this is avoiding water-related damage, including surface erosion, which can occur when the ground is frequently exposed to water.
– Slip-resistant
Resin has a slightly rough texture, thanks to the aggregate and gravel content, which means it naturally provides grip when it is raining or icy outside.
This traction reduces the chances of people slipping while walking on the driveway during wet, frosty, snowy or icy weather.
As it is permeable, a layer of ice is less likely to form on top of the resin, which makes it safer for homeowners, visitors and delivery persons to walk on the path.
– Low maintenance
One of the benefits of installing a resin driveway is that it is extremely low maintenance. For a start, the installation process prevents weeds from growing.
Therefore, homeowners do not have to spend the cold months worrying about removing weeds and moss, or cleaning their driveway, as it will remain looking as good as new throughout the season.
Additionally, as the resin firmly secures all the aggregate to the ground, there is no risk of loose stones. This makes for less debris being brought into the hallway and it also means homeowners do not have to top up the gravel on their drives.
Something homeowners will appreciate is the fact it does not need resealing. However, stone slab and asphalt will need to be resealed every so often, requiring regular investment for it to continue to look good.
– Easy winter care
Resin driveways are particularly easy to take care of during the winter, as the ground does not freeze.
To clear a path for the car or pedestrians, all that is needed is a shovel to remove the snow. Using a plastic one instead of a metal shovel will avoid scratching the resin.
It is also safe to spread salt on top of the driveway in very frosty conditions, which adds even more grip to the surface. Just make sure to remove the salt once the snow has melted and the path is clear, so there is none left on the surface.
– Strong
One thing all homeowners look for when installing something new is its durability. It is essential that it is resistant to wear and tear, so that it can last as long as possible before needing to be replaced.
Resin bound driveways typically last 15 to 25 years, as long as they have been installed properly, are of a high quality material, and are regularly swept clean to avoid a build-up of debris.
As it is flexible, it can cope with minor movements in the ground, as well as fluctuations in the outdoor temperature. This means it will not crack during freeze-thaw cycles, unlike other types of driveways.