The Comprehensive Guide on Resin Bound Application for Driveway, Patio or Pathway
Resin driveways have surged in popularity due to their blend of durability and aesthetic appeal. However, achieving that perfect finish requires a meticulous application process. In this guide, we'll delve deeper into each step, ensuring you're well-equipped to achieve an impeccable resin driveway.
Weather Considerations:
Rain and Moisture: Avoid application during or just before rain. Rain can interfere with the bond between particles, potentially weakening the driveway's structure. It's crucial to ensure that the substrate (or base) is dry before application. Applying to a damp substrate can significantly reduce the bond strength, compromising the driveway's longevity.
Forecast Check: Always be one step ahead by checking the weather forecast. It's advisable to refrain from applying RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing if rain is predicted within the next 24 hours at 20°C. Additionally, if there's a forecast of fog, frost, or dew within the upcoming 48 hours, it's best to postpone the application.
Preparing the Base:
Concrete Bases: When constructing a new concrete base, it's essential to maintain a 1:1 proportion for concrete bays. Long, narrow strips are more prone to cracking, which can reflect on the resin surface. The concrete should possess a minimum design strength of C35. Before any surface preparation, ensure that the concrete has achieved a compressive strength of 15-20N/mm^2.
Surface Texture: For optimal adhesion, the concrete surface needs to be prepared to remove any laitance and to achieve a lightly textured finish. Vacuum shot blasting is the recommended method for this, ensuring a surface that the resin can firmly grip.
Asphalt Concrete: Before the application, the asphalt concrete surface should be pristine — clean, dry, and devoid of any loose materials.
Drainage: Proper drainage is vital. Ensure that falls are established when applying to an impermeable base, preventing any waterlogging issues.
Edge Protection: Edges adjoining soft landscaping areas should be fortified with brick or concrete. This not only provides a neat finish but also prevents potential damage to the resin surface. It's crucial that these edgings are securely anchored to prevent any movement.
Joint Considerations: Where movement is anticipated at the edgings, a flexible joint filler should be employed. This acts as a buffer, separating the surfacing from the edging and accommodating any shifts. Additionally, when applying RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing to concrete bases, it's essential to express all movement, stress relief, and day joints in the resin bound surfacing.
Mixing Process:
Aggregate and Resin: Start with a clean, dry, forced action mixer of at least 120 litres/1.8kW capacity, such as the Baron E200. First, introduce the RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing Aggregate (100kg), followed by the RonaDeck Fine Aggregate (6.25kg). This sequence ensures an even distribution of materials.
Resin Components: For a consistent blend, combine the A and B components of RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing using a slow-speed drill for about 1 minute. Once mixed, introduce this resin to the aggregate in the mixer followed by the RonaDeck Fine Aggregate (6.25kg). The goal is to achieve a uniform coating of resin on the aggregate, which typically takes around 2 minutes. Remember, overmixing can generate excessive heat and potentially alter the resin's colour.
Application Steps:
Surface Levelling: Once your mix is ready, discharge it onto the prepared surface. Spread it evenly, ensuring a level finish. While compaction is essential, excessive compaction can reduce the driveway's permeability.
Finishing Touches: A suitable float should be employed to give the surface its final finish. It's crucial to strike a balance — overworking can lead to "trowel burn." If required, RonaDeck Low VOC Tool Cleaner/Trowel Finishing Aid can be used. Refrain from using white spirit as it's not recommended.
Slip-Resistance: For areas with steep gradients, consider enhancing slip-resistance. This can be achieved by evenly scattering RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing Anti-Slip Aggregate onto the wet resin.
Seamless Integration: To ensure a seamless finish, always maintain a wet edge. This practice ensures that joints between different mixes are invisible, giving a continuous, smooth appearance.
Curing and Final Steps:
Let it Set: Once applied, the surface needs time to cure. Refer to the "Working Times and Temperatures" guidelines for specifics.
Clean-Up: Post-application, tools and equipment may have residual resin. Clean them promptly using RonaDeck Low VOC Tool Cleaner/Trowel Finishing Aid, which effectively removes any uncured resin.
In conclusion, while the resin driveway application process might seem intricate, following these detailed steps ensures a stunning and durable result. Precision, patience, and adherence to guidelines are the keys to a flawless finish.