Month: August 2023

The driveway is more than just a functional space to park your car; it’s often the first impression your property gives to visitors. When considering a new drive from Abington Driveways, several factors come into play. These include the cost of the project, the time it takes for installation, and the materials available. This article will provide an insight into these aspects, ensuring homeowners can make informed decisions.

1. Costs of Driveway Installation in the UK:

The cost of installing a driveway can vary significantly based on the choice of material, the size of the area, the existing ground conditions, and any additional features or customisations. Here’s a general breakdown:

Tarmac: One of the most affordable options, tarmac driveways can range from £40 to £70 per square metre.

Concrete: A straightforward concrete driveway can start from £50 per square metre, but costs can rise with decorative finishes or colours.

Block Paving: Depending on the quality and design, block paving driveways can range from £50 to £100 per square metre.

Resin Bound/Bonded: These can range between £40 and £70 per square metre, but costs can rise depending on the type and colour of stones used.

Gravel: Another budget-friendly option, gravel driveways can start from as little as £20 per square metre.

Keep in mind, these are ballpark figures. Additional costs can arise from site preparation, drainage solutions, or intricate patterns and designs.

2. Installation Times:

The time required to install a driveway depends on its size, material, and any challenges presented by the site. Generally:

Tarmac: 1-2 days, depending on the size and ground conditions.

Concrete: The actual pouring might take just a day for a standard driveway, but it requires several days to cure before it’s ready for use.

Block Paving: 3-5 days, considering the laying pattern and potential challenges.

Resin Bound/Bonded: Typically 1-2 days. They set quickly and can be used within 24 hours.

Gravel: 1-2 days. The simplicity of gravel makes it a quick option.

It’s essential to account for extra days if there’s significant groundwork, removal of an existing driveway, or if weather conditions are unfavourable.

3. Choice of Materials:

Choosing the right material is crucial, not just for aesthetic appeal but also for longevity and maintenance.

Tarmac: It offers a neat appearance and is relatively low maintenance. However, it can soften in extremely hot temperatures and may be prone to oil spills or leaks from vehicles.

Concrete: Durable and low maintenance, concrete driveways can be customised with various finishes and colours. The downside is that they can crack over time and might not offer as much aesthetic appeal as other options.

Block Paving: Highly versatile in terms of design, block paving can create a range of patterns and styles. They’re easy to repair (just replace individual blocks), but they may require regular maintenance to prevent weed growth and maintain appearance.

Resin Bound/Bonded: These offer a smooth finish and are permeable, which is excellent for drainage. They come in various colours and designs, and are durable and resistant to weeds. However, they might need occasional power washing.

Gravel: Simple and rustic, gravel driveways are affordable and offer excellent drainage. They do, however, require regular raking to maintain appearance and can result in gravel spilling onto roads or adjacent areas.

Installing or renovating a driveway is a significant investment, and making the right choices is crucial for homeowners in the UK.

While cost is an essential factor, it’s equally important to consider the longevity, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal of the chosen material. Taking the time to assess the specific needs of your property, consulting with professionals, and understanding the local climate and its impact on materials can ensure that your driveway remains a functional and beautiful part of your home for years to come.…

For homeowners and property developers seeking to elevate the aesthetics and functionality of their driveways, resin-based surfaces have emerged as a popular choice. While both resin bound and resin bonded driveways share the term “resin,” they have distinct characteristics, applications, and benefits. Here, our expert from Leicester Resin Driveways will delve deep into the differences between these two types of driveways to help you make an informed decision.

1. Composition and Application:

Resin Bound Driveways: In this method, a mixture of resin and aggregates (stones) is prepared, ensuring every aggregate particle is completely coated in resin. This mixture is then laid on the driveway surface and trowelled down to a smooth finish. It creates a permeable surface, allowing water to pass through.

Resin Bonded Driveways: Here, a layer of resin is applied directly to the driveway surface, and then the aggregates are scattered on top, ensuring they stick to the resin. Once set, any loose stones are removed. This method results in a non-permeable finish since water cannot pass through the surface easily.

2. Permeability:

Resin Bound: Due to its composition and application method, resin bound driveways are permeable, promoting natural drainage. This makes them compliant with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) standards, often eliminating the need for additional drainage planning permission.

Resin Bonded: These driveways are generally impermeable, meaning water doesn’t pass through the surface easily. This can sometimes lead to surface water build-up or require additional drainage solutions.

3. Aesthetic Finish:

Resin Bound: This driveway type offers a smooth, flat finish. Since the stones are fully coated in resin and then laid, there’s a consistent, even look throughout the surface. There’s also flexibility in design, allowing for the incorporation of patterns, logos, or borders.

Resin Bonded: These driveways provide a more textured finish since the stones are directly scattered onto the resin layer. This method can give a gravel-like appearance without the issue of loose stones.

4. Durability and Maintenance:

Resin Bound: This type of driveway typically has a longer lifespan and is more resilient to wear and tear. Its smooth surface ensures fewer chances of weed growth. Furthermore, its permeable nature reduces the risk of frost damage, making it low maintenance.

Resin Bonded: While still durable, it might not match the longevity of its resin bound counterpart. The textured finish can sometimes promote weed growth in between the aggregates, requiring occasional maintenance.

5. Cost:

Resin Bound: Given its durability, aesthetic finish, and permeability, resin bound driveways can be slightly more expensive than resin bonded options. However, the investment can be justified by the longer lifespan and reduced maintenance needs.

Resin Bonded: Generally, this is a more cost-effective solution compared to resin bound driveways. However, potential drainage requirements or additional maintenance might offset the initial savings over time.

6. Slip Resistance:

Resin Bound: The smooth finish and permeable nature mean that water does not accumulate, reducing the risk of slipping.

Resin Bonded: The textured finish offers natural slip-resistance, but in areas with potential water build-up, there could be a risk of slipping if proper drainage solutions aren’t in place.

Conclusion:

Choosing between resin bound and resin bonded driveways boils down to one’s specific requirements, budget, and desired aesthetic appeal. If you prioritise permeability, a smooth finish, and extended durability, a resin bound driveway might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution with a textured, gravel-like appearance, a resin bonded driveway could be the way to go.

Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to engage with professionals familiar with resin-based driveway installations. Proper installation ensures the longevity, aesthetics, and functionality of your driveway, guaranteeing a robust return on investment.…