A resin bound surface is a remarkable solution that combines durability, low maintenance, and design flexibility. While it requires minimal upkeep, it's important to understand how to properly care for your resin-bound surface to ensure its longevity. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the best practices for maintaining and protecting your resin-bound surface, keeping it in excellent condition for years to come.
How to Use a Resin Bound Surface:
Resin bound surfaces are designed for pedestrian and light vehicular traffic. However, it's essential to avoid subjecting the surface to excessive loads or uses. Here are some guidelines to protect your resin-bound surface:
Avoid placing heavy skips with edges directly on your driveway; for lighter skips, use load-bearing planks or consider placing the skip elsewhere if possible.
Steer clear by applying sharp pressure points to the surface, such as the stand of a heavy motorcycle.
Refrain from dragging heavy objects across the surface to prevent damage.
Prevent spillage of solvents, as they can soften and damage the resin binder.
Routine Cleaning:
Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the beauty and functionality of your resin bound surface. Here's what you need to do:
Use a standard jet wash or hose to remove foreign bodies, stains, and other potentially damaging elements. Aim for a moderate water temperature to avoid resin damage.
If using a pressure washer, use a fan jet at a minimum distance of 30cm between the nozzle and the surface to prevent damage.
Consider jet washing after sweeping to remove smaller debris that a broom may miss.
Dealing with Chewing Gum, Moss, and Algae:
Maintaining the pristine appearance and integrity of your resin-bound surface requires effectively dealing with chewing gum, moss, and algae. These common challenges can detract from the beauty of your surface, but with the right knowledge and actions, you can easily remove gum and prevent moss and algae growth, ensuring your resin-bound surface remains in optimal condition.
Chewing Gum: If sweeping or jet washing doesn't remove hardened chewing gum, try using a freezing spray to make it brittle before carefully removing it with a wall scraper or similar tool. Avoid using hard edges that may damage the surface.
Weed Removal and Maintenance:
Weed removal and maintenance are crucial aspects of caring for your resin-bound surface. By proactively addressing weeds, you can preserve the flawless appearance of your surface and ensure its long-term durability.
Weeds can occasionally appear on any surface, including resin bound surfaces. Remove small numbers of weeds by hand, ensuring the full root is extracted. If weeds are deep-rooted, consider using an appropriate herbicide or weed killer. Domestic weed killers can be used on localized weed seeding infestations without damaging the surface.
Dealing with Cement, Oil Spills, and Mineral Stains:
Dealing with cement, oil spills, and mineral stains is essential to maintain the pristine condition of your resin bound surface. By promptly addressing these issues, you can prevent permanent damage and keep your surface looking its best for years to come.
Cement or Concrete Marks: Use diluted hydrochloric acid or a proprietary cement remover, followed by thorough rinsing with clean water. Take care if a lime-based aggregate is used, as the acid may dissolve it.
Oil Spills: Use a proprietary degreasing material and scrub into the surface with a brush. Ingrained stains may require the degreaser to be left in place for long enough for the product to penetrate the deposit before flushing. Several applications of degreaser may be required for full removal.
Snow and Ice:
Snow and ice can present challenges to the maintenance of your resin bound surface, but with proper care, you can ensure its safety and longevity. By following the recommended guidelines for clearing snow and preventing ice build up, you can effectively manage winter conditions and keep your surface in optimal condition.
Clear snow with a standard snow shovel, as the smooth and flat surface of resin bound driveways allows for easy snow removal without scattering loose aggregates. Avoid using a metal shovel to prevent surface damage. The permeable nature of resin-bound surfaces helps absorb melted snow and prevent icy patches.
Salt can be used to eliminate ice and frost, but be sure to thoroughly wash off
Maintaining and caring for your resin bound surface is crucial to preserving its beauty, strength, and longevity. By following the guidelines outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your surface remains in optimal condition for years to come. From regular sweeping and jet washing to addressing specific issues like moss, algae, and stains, the maintenance process is straightforward and manageable for everyday homeowners.
Remember, a resin bound surface offers a hard-wearing, low-maintenance solution that surpasses traditional options. Its design flexibility, durability, and ease of upkeep make it the superior choice for enhancing your outdoor spaces. Don't settle for outdated surfaces that require constant maintenance and repair. Choose the remarkable benefits of resin bound surfacing.