Permeability:
Resin bound paving is porous, allowing water to drain through the surface. This helps to reduce surface water, prevent flooding, and meet Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SuDS) requirements.
Aesthetic Appeal:
It offers a smooth, seamless finish with a wide variety of natural aggregates, allowing for a customizable appearance in different colors and textures that can suit various styles.
Low Maintenance:
Resin bound surfaces are easy to clean and maintain. They resist weeds, moss, and algae growth, and simply require occasional washing to keep them looking fresh.
Durability:
Resin bound paving is strong, hard-wearing, and resistant to cracking, making it suitable for footpaths, driveways, and commercial areas. When properly installed, it can last for many years without deterioration.
Smooth Surface:
It provides a smooth, flat surface with no loose stones, making it safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchairs, and more comfortable underfoot compared to gravel.
UV Stability:
Many resin-bound systems use UV-stable resin, meaning the surface won’t discolor or degrade when exposed to sunlight, helping it maintain its appearance over time.
Quick Installation:
Resin bound surfaces can be installed relatively quickly, and they typically set within a few hours, meaning less disruption during construction.
Slip Resistance:
The textured finish of resin bound paving can be made slip-resistant by selecting the right aggregates, making it safer for wet or sloped areas.
Disadvantages of Resin Bound Paving
Cost:
Resin bound paving tends to be more expensive than traditional materials like concrete or tarmac, both for the materials and the installation process.
Installation Complexity:
Professional installation is required to ensure the surface is even and durable. Improper installation can lead to issues like pooling or cracking over time.
Limited Load-Bearing Capacity:
While durable for pedestrian use and light vehicles, resin bound paving may not be suitable for areas with heavy traffic or frequent heavy loads, such as commercial parking lots with large trucks.
Susceptible to Damage:
Resin bound surfaces can be damaged by heavy impacts, such as dropped tools or heavy objects. Repairing damage can be difficult, as patches may not blend seamlessly with the original surface.
Discoloration (If Not UV-Stable):
If non-UV-stable resin is used, the surface can become discolored or yellow when exposed to sunlight over time, reducing its aesthetic appeal.
Cleaning Challenges:
Although low-maintenance, resin bound surfaces can be challenging to clean if oils, greases, or chemicals penetrate the surface. Stains can be harder to remove compared to other materials like concrete.
Temperature Sensitivity:
In very hot weather, resin bound surfaces can soften slightly, leading to surface deformation if heavy objects are placed on them. In very cold weather, frost damage could potentially occur if the surface isn’t installed properly.
Limited Lifespan in Harsh Conditions:
In areas with extreme freeze-thaw cycles or heavy use, resin bound surfaces may not last as long as concrete or natural stone paving, which are more resilient under these conditions.