The Resin Bound Surfacing Installation Process: A Comprehensive Overview

Because of its eco-friendly qualities, durability, and appealing appearance, resin-bound surfacing has become incredibly popular in recent years. Clear resin and natural aggregates are combined to create this seamless finish, which is then applied to a solid base. The end effect is a permeable, smooth surface that is perfect for patios, driveways, walkways, and even areas by pools.

However, how is this smooth surface installed? To help you recognize the craftsmanship and understand why it’s such a reliable option, we’ve broken down the resin bound installation process into comprehensive, step-by-step steps in this blog.

Step 1: Planning, Survey, and Site Visit

A thorough site assessment is the first step. A qualified group comes to the site to:

• Assess the current surface’s condition.
• To determine the materials needed, measure the area.
• Examine slopes and water drainage.
• Examine the equipment and mixing units’ accessibility.

In order to select aggregate colors, choose patterns or borders, and address any particular design or usage issues, this step also entails talks with the client. A perfect finish is guaranteed and expensive revisions are avoided with careful planning.

Step 2: Selecting the Proper Base

The strength of the base has a significant impact on how long resin-bound surfacing lasts. It is essential to have a solid, crack-free foundation. Appropriate bases consist of:

• Asphalt and tarmac are both compatible with resin-bound surfacing and have a slight porosity.
• Concrete: Strong and long-lasting, it’s frequently chosen for driveways and other high-traffic areas.
• Prior to installation, any damaged surfaces must be replaced or repaired. It takes 24 to 48 hours for tarmac and 7 days for concrete for a new base to cure. 

Step 3: Edging Installation

In order to contain the resin-bound mixture and define the working area, edging is necessary. Typical edging materials consist of:

• Trim made of steel or aluminum for crisp, contemporary lines
• For a more conventional appearance, use stone or brick.
• Sleepers made of wood for rustic designs
• The edging needs to be firmly fastened and positioned either at or just above the desired resin surface level. It makes a clean border and stops the resin from leaking out. 

Step 4: Priming and Surface Cleaning

Strong adherence between the resin and base is ensured by a clean surface. Among the steps in the preparation process are:

• Power washing to get rid of debris and grime
• Eliminating vegetation, moss, or oil stains
• Making sure the surface is totally dry because moisture can prevent the resin from curing
• If the base is concrete, a resin primer should be applied to improve bonding.
• In order to avoid future delamination or cracking, this stage is essential. 

Step 5: Combining the Aggregates and Resin

A two-part polyurethane resin is combined with dried, dust-free natural stone aggregates in a forced action mixer to create resin-bound surfacing. Important actions consist of:

Accurately weighing the aggregates to preserve uniformity in texture and color

adding the resin and stirring for a predetermined amount of time (usually three to five minutes).

If necessary, applying pigments or anti-slip additives

Strength and appearance are guaranteed to be consistent in a well-mixed batch. Weak spots or uneven color can result from poor mixing.

Step 6: Trowelling and Hand-Laying

The prepared surface is immediately covered with a mixture of aggregate and resin:

Depending on usage, it should be laid at a depth of 15–20 mm and spread evenly with a shovel (15 mm for foot traffic, 18–20 mm for vehicles).

compacted and smoothed in a circular motion using a steel float

Carefully finished edges and joints prevent visible seams.

Since the resin starts to cure within 20 to 30 minutes of mixing, this step calls for dexterity and skill.

Step 7: Applying the optional anti-slip finish

Before curing, anti-slip materials such as crushed glass or aluminum oxide are lightly broadcast onto the surface in areas that are prone to moisture or where additional traction is required. This is particularly helpful for:

• Poolside areas
• Ramps
• Sloped pathways

It enhances safety without compromising the aesthetic finish.

Step 8: Protection and Curing

The resin-bound surface needs to be left undisturbed to cure after it has been laid:

After six to eight hours, foot traffic can resume.

automobiles after 24 to 48 hours

During this time, the area needs to be shielded from contamination, dust, and rain. To protect the curing surface, temporary covers or barriers may be put in place.

Step 9: Last Exam and Cleaning

The installation crew performs a last walkthrough following complete curing in order to:

Verify the surface integrity, color consistency, and smoothness.

Clear the area and get rid of any obstacles, trash, or tools.

Give the customer maintenance advice, such as frequent brushing, mild pressure washing, and preventing oil spills.