Resin bound vs Block Paving
Resin bound paving and blocks (block paving) are often used together on hard landscaping projects.
There are two distinct types of paving systems that are a popular surfacing choice but both have different methods and advantages.
Let’s take a look
RESIN BOUND supplied by SureSet.
This has become a popular paving choice and is known for its permeability and aesthetic qualities.
How do you install resin bound?
You would ensure the area is suitably prepared with either crushed stone, SureCell, asphalt, or concrete (depending on your application) and have edging of brick, timer, or most popular aluminium in place.
The method of installation is to mix the stone with a clear resin together on site in a forced action mixer. The high quality UV stable resin is often pumped from our more economical EcoBatcher to avoid the amount of single-use plastic we use on site.
Mixing the resin and aggregate thoroughly ensures that each particle of stone is completely coated with the resin, allowing the stones to adhere to one another.
The combined mixture is then applied to the base such as asphalt or compacted stone and then floated either by hand or with a mechanical floating method to give a permeable, smooth, and durable finish.
When the resin bound paving is installed, the finished depth of the bound system usually varies between 12mm and 24mm.
The depth is dependent on the main three main factors, the first being the aggregate sizes 3mm, 6mm, and 10mm.
The second is the type of application the blend will be used for such as pedestrian, vehicular or decorative for tree surrounds.
Lastly, the resin bound system allows the mixing of different types of stone available such as aggregates, marble, and glass all of which offer a variety of different colours, appearances, and textures.
The type of aggregate blend (colour) chosen will also determine the suitability for the application you have and its depth.
What is the appeal for resin bound?
Permeability, resin bound is a permeable paving option keeping the surface puddle free without the need for planning permission.
Weed resistance, due to the method of how this material is mixed it leaves voids for water to drain through but prevents weeds to grow up through it – very clever!
Seamless, a consistent and uniform installation with no joints is pleasing to the eye.
Frost resistant, due to the type of resin we use it is tough enough to withstand frost without damage, as well as salt treatments.
Oil damage, spillages are common but it’s reassuring to know oil will not weaken our resin and if you are quick enough to wash it off you can avoid unsightly stains.
Slip resistant, ideal for foot traffic and accessible areas. All of our materials have an SRV (slip resistance value) which is available on request. The highest would be a natural angular stone.
Colour stable, the resin we use is high in quality and UV stable meaning it will not yellow drastically under sunlight.
Low maintenance, with no loose stone it just a case of periodically sweeping debris and leaves whilst planning an occasional power wash.
Durability, designed, tested, and proven to last and is guaranteed for 21 years.
Resin bound paving is a stunning option that can be installed and covered by a full 21 year guarantee or just supplied to then be installed by an experienced tradesman, or keen self-installer!
BLOCK PAVING not supplied by SureSet.
A traditional method commonly used on driveways and patios.
How do you install block paving?
You would tend to start by digging down approximately 150mm below the damp proof course (this is standard practice when installing paving but depths will vary).
Then a sub base of crushed stone should be well compacted before adding your edging restraints, which tends to be pin kerbs or edging stones.
Once the base is done you apply a layer of sharp, damp sand and screed to a level finish.
Then simply lay your chosen blocks to 10 – 15mm proud of the desired level before compacting them down. Sweep more sand into the joints of the blocks and compact again if needed.
What is helpful to know about block paving?
Permeable, some blocks can be permeable like concrete block paving, you replace the sand bedding layer with smaller sized stones. If your area is more than 5m² in size and you are not installing permeable paving, you will need planning permission.
Resistant, blocks are not affected by oil spillage but could stain affecting their appearance. Blocks can cope with frost and salts too.
Aesthetics, Blocks come in various sizes, shapes, and colours to offer a variety of styles suitable for many applications.
Maintenance, blocks can be swept and washed, regular weeding and sand replacement will be needed over time.
Durability, interlocking blocks can provide enhanced strength. The typical base type for blocks is more prone to movement however the blocks themselves are very strong.
Block paving has a beautiful appearance. It should be remembered that modular block paving is only pigmented blocks of concrete that will fade and lose their original aesthetics over a relatively brief period of time. Sealing block paving can increase its longevity by 2 years as it protects them and your investment but overall they require more maintenance than resin bound.
There you have it, two popular paving choices often used together for maximum interest, these two types of paving are very different but both worthy for being very durable and expected to last reliably for at least 20 years. Both materials make for a perfect driveway, pathway, or patio choice as they are incredibly hard-wearing and can easily cope with motor and pedestrian traffic.
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