How to Resolve Resin Bonded Gravel Problems?
Bonded resin gravel should not be confused with resin bound gravel. It is a cheaper and less durable option and, in most cases, has more maintenance requirements. Another major resin bonded gravel problem is that it is not SUDS compliant. What this means is that an additional drainage channel will be required to direct water away from your property, since the surface is not permeable.
Resin bonded gravels are made by a system sometimes referred to as “scattercoat.” Here, a layer of resin is first poured onto the desired base and then aggregate stones are scattered upon it. The resultant driveway surface is textured with the stones forming a bond with the resin but still exposed to the surface.
The implication of having exposed stones to the surface is that the stones can become loose and migrate out of position after some years. However, bonded gravel driveways have superb anti-slip property which makes them ideal for sloped areas.
Common Issues Encountered with Resin Bonded Gravel Driveway
Resin Bonded Gravel Problems may arise either due to installation errors, poor maintenance, subjecting the driveway to much greater load than it is able to bear, among others.
Here are some of the problems you can encounter with gravel bonding resin;
Loose stones-
This is one very common issue most owners of resin bonded gravel face. Because the aggregate stones are not entirely covered with resin, the stones can lose their bond with the resin and are dislodged from their position. This can create ugly patches as the stones are moved out of place.
Additionally, it comes with an extra responsibility of maintenance. Home owners may constantly need to shovel stones back into position, or do some regular stone ‘top-ups’ to replace lost or loose materials.
Need For Extra Drainage- Since the resin bonded drive is not SUDS compliant, there is need for additional drainage channels to eliminate puddles and prevent flash flooding.
SUDS is an acronym for Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems and in line with this regulation, permeable driveways such as resin bound driveways are favoured. Reason being that they allow water to pass through them. Not only does this reduce environmental pollution and is an eco-friendly option, it also reduces the amount of waste water that goes to treatment works.
When you install a resin bonded gravel, you need to make provision for a secondary drainage channel. Furthermore, you will also need a UK planning permission before installing your drive.
Labour-Intensive Maintenance Routine- Unlike the resin bound gravel surface which is smooth and easy to clean, bonded resin gravel systems require more maintenance. First it is not easy to just use a stiff broom to sweep off debris because of its textured surface. You will need a pressure wash and sometimes individual scrubbing to remove any unwanted stains.
Furthermore, most resin bonded gravel driveways are not weed resistant like the bound resin driveway and so you will also have to deal with growth of unwanted weed and moss.
Driveway Discolouration- It is common to see resin bonded drives lose their beauty and colour. This is so because the aggregate stones are exposed to sunlight and other weather elements in addition to the use of non-UV stable resin for the installation.
When discoloration or colour fading occurs, white patches may appear and may make for an ugly sight.
Discolouration may also happen when moist aggregates are used for the installation. Resin will absorb moisture from the aggregates and this will lead to uneven colours and white patches.
Caving In- Another problem of resin bonded gravel is caving, swelling or sinking of the driveway usually due to poorly done installation. Bonded resin gravels also tend to sink in over time because there is only a thin layer of resin and so after years of usage, your drive may begin to sink.
Reflective Cracking- Reflective cracking usually happens when there is a movement in the base or sub-base layer. This movement causes a corresponding movement on the driveway surface and this will lead to cracks appearing since resin bonded drives are not flexible like resin bound drives.
Fixing Resin Bonded Gravel Problems
Having known the various issues that can arise with installing a resin bonded drive, this section tells you how you can take care of the issues when they come up. For some, it is better to prevent them rather than resolve them.
To resolve problems with loose stones, the permanent solution is to upgrade your drive and install a resin bound gravel which has smooth surface and no loose stones. As long as you have a resin bonded drive, you will always have to deal with having to put back stones back in position to keep your driveway in good condition.
Drainage issues can be resolved by having a proper auxiliary drainage channel after obtaining a UK planning permit. Alternatively, it would be best to install a resin bound surface instead.
To get rid of weeds, you can remove them manually or use a mild weed killer. The weed killer should be diluted and applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a concentrated chemical for this purpose can discolour your drive.
Use only UV stable resins for your installation to prevent discolouration of your drive. Also ensure that your aggregate stones are well dried before laying your drive.
Ensure that the mixing ratio for resin is accurate. It is also important that your base is in good condition to carry a new drive. For best results, it is important that you contact a trusted resin bound driveway company for your installation. As experts, they will do a far better and efficient job and you can get the best out of your resin bonded driveway.
If you are laying your drive by yourself, do not do so when there are chances that it would rain during or within four hours after the installation. However, if it starts to rain, set up a gazebo and cover the driveway area with a tarpaulin. Water should not touch your drive prior to complete curing.
If your driveway begins to crack, reach out to an expert installer to come look at the issue and fix it.
Get A Permeable Lasting Driveway Solution Today
It is your duty to maintain and keep your driveway in pristine condition. Ensure proper care and avoid overloading it.
If issues arise with your driveway, it is best that you seek expert inspection and carry out repairs promptly. Alternatively, opt for a durable solution like a resin bound system for your driveway, paving, or patio project to avoid future problems.
Got questions or planning a driveway project? Reach out for a free quote. We're always happy to assist with all your needs.