Resin bonded drives are all the rage these days for the obvious reason that they provide a great looking gravel hard-standing without the drawback of loose gravel but are they a job for the general builder or should you sub them out, asks Roger Bisby?

There are two distinct forms of resin bonded drive. One is where the gravel is mixed in with the resin and trowelled on in the same way as a screed, the other is a broadcast method where the resin is spread across the surface and the chippings are then thrown across it. Those chippings that make contact with the resin are fixed and the loose can be swept up for reuse.

The mixed resin method requires a special mixer so it is more likely that the builder will sub this job out but the broadcast method is easier because it requires very little outlay for tools. Ideally some training is required because you are dealing with a two pack product. Material suppliers can offer this.

Like anything that has two different methods there is a difference of opinion as to which is best. Generally, the broadcast method is considered more suitable for driveways as it is harder wearing and has excellent skid resistance. The trowel down method is a smoother surface which some prefer but it can be slippery when wet. This can be cured with a non-slip coating. Similarly the broadcast surface can be sealed with a clear resin to resist staining and enhance the colour. Once this is done it is often difficult for the untrained eye to see a difference between trowel down and broadcast.

To read more follow the link below http://skill-builder.uk/resin-bonded-gravel-ddives-are-they-a-diy-job

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