Resin driveways are becoming a popular alternative to traditional tarmac and gravel driveways. With the range of aggregate stones in a variety of colours and finishes, these driveways can be customised to suit the aesthetic and feel of a property, complementing it rather than detracting from it.
These driveways are unique in construction and have an interesting science behind them, making them strong and durable.
Crown Resin have years of experience installing these driveways across the South Coast, and have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the science behind these driveways. In this blog, we are going to explain how a resin driveway is created and the science behind it.
What is Resin?
Resin is a substance that is poured as a liquid but hardens when cured to create a solid, durable surface.
There are two types of resins; natural and synthetic.
Natural resins are made from trees and plants and are complex mixtures of organic compounds such as terpenes, phenols, and hydrocarbons.
Meanwhile, synthetic resins are artificially created through chemical processes that are chosen depending on the application.
When it comes to resin used in driveways, typically, synthetic resins are preferred because of their characteristics.
You will commonly see Epoxy Resin, Polyurethane Resin and Acrylic Resin because these are weather-resistant, UV resistant and are able to withstand heavy foot traffic.
The Chemistry of Resin Bonded and Resin Bound Systems
Resin bonded and resin bound are terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there is a difference between them and it is important to understand these to understand the science behind them.
Resin Bonded
A resin bonded driveway is when the resin is spread first, usually on top of a solid surface such as concrete. Once the resin has been laid, the aggregate stone is scattered over it, creating a textured surface that mimics the look of gravel. However, the aggregate stone sticks to the resin, meaning there is less movement under the foot.
The installation process differs to resin bound as the resin is laid first.
As the aggregates are poured onto the resin, the resin penetrates the surface of the aggregates, which is how they are held down onto the surface. Then the resin cures, hardening around the aggregate and emphasising its grip on the stones.
Resin Bound
A resin-bound driveway is created by mixing the aggregate stone with the resin in a mixer before laying it on the surface. The mixture is then trowled to create a smooth and flat surface that is seamless, permeable and highly durable.
While the stones and resin are in the mixer, each stone is thoroughly coated. The resin will usually have a reactive component that chemically bonds with the surface of the stone, forming a united material.
These mixing and installation processes create the different final driveway types.
Durability and Strength
Resin goes through a process called polymerization as it cures. It is this process that seems it solidify, as during it, the molecules within the material form strong cross-links.
If installing a resin bonded driveway, this will happen across the resin surface underneath the aggregate stone and where the resin has penetrated the stone.
However, in resin bound driveway installations, this process will happen throughout the entire surface, locking in the aggregate stones.
For both driveways, this reaction creates a strong structure within the surface, enhancing its ability to withstand physical stresses such as impact and compression.
Additionally, the cross-linking of molecules provides a barrier against chemical penetration, meaning that they are able to withstand chemicals, particularly low levels that might be found in acidic rain.
Finally, the network of cross-linked polymers creates bonds with the surface, offering superior bonding strength that stops layer separation or delamination. This improves the driveway surface's overall durability and integrity.
Permeability and Environmental Benefits
One of the many benefits of a resin driveway is that a resin bound drive is permeable and environmentally friendly.
Aggregate size, plays a role in the permeability, as the larger the stones, the bigger the gaps between them, meaning more space for the water to seep through.
Additionally, the resin composition will impact how porous the surface is. While creating a sealed surface for the eye, the cured form doesn’t actually completely seal, rather it forms a matrix that bonds aggregates while allowing water to flow through the gaps.
The permeability of a resin bound driveway reduces surface flooding or groundwater running off, meaning it can be particularly beneficial in built-up areas. Plus, these driveways are Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDs) compliant.
Maintenance and Longevity
Thanks to their composition resin bonded and resin bound driveways are fairly easy to maintain.
If you have chosen a resin bound driveway, the smooth surface is easy to sweep, meaning you are able to remove debris and foliage in one movement.
Additionally, as the binds the aggregate stone tightly together, there is little room for weeds and moss to grow through.
Plus, a resin driveway is able to flex slightly, when under a heavy load, meaning it is less likely to crack under thermal expansion and contraction cycles. This means they are a long-lasting solution for a driveway.
And, as the aggregates are chemically bonded to the resin, they don’t displace like gravel does, so you don’t have to worry about finding small stones everywhere you go.
Interested In A Resin Driveway?
At Crown Resin UK, we are experts in resin bound driveways. With our range of aggregate stones, you are guaranteed to find a colour scheme that will perfectly complement the exterior of your home to create a stunning first impression.
Following your enquiry, we will visit your property to talk you through our options, the benefits of a resin driveway, how they work and our process in more detail.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today by calling us on 0800 861 1763 or completing our online contact form and we will call you back.
Our team are experts and are always happy to discuss your thoughts, visions and queries with you.
Looking for some inspiration? Check out our case studies to discover how a new resin driveway can refresh your driveway and the front of your home, and take a look at our gallery for more examples.
