Can You Lay a Resin Driveway Over Your Existing Driveway?
A Comprehensive Guide to Transforming Your Driveway with Resin Bound Driveways & Patios
When it comes to home improvement projects, the driveway is often overlooked. However, a beautiful and durable driveway not only enhances your property’s curb appeal but can also increase its value. If your existing driveway has seen better days, you may be considering upgrading to a resin driveway. But can you lay a resin driveway over your existing driveway? The short answer is yes, but there are a few factors you should consider before embarking on this project. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of resin driveways over block paving and tarmac, the process of installing them over an existing driveway, and the factors you should take into account before getting started.
What is a Resin Driveway?
A resin driveway is a surface made from a mixture of natural aggregate stones and a high-quality resin binder. This combination creates a permeable, durable, and visually appealing surface that is resistant to cracking, UV damage, and weathering. Resin driveways come in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing you to customise your driveway to match your property’s aesthetic.
Benefits of Resin Driveways
Versatility: Resin driveways can be laid over various surfaces, including concrete, tarmac, and block paving, making them an ideal solution for revamping an existing driveway.
Low Maintenance: The smooth and seamless surface of a resin driveway is easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance. You’ll only need to occasionally sweep and pressure wash the surface to keep it looking its best.
Permeability
Resin driveways are a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) compliant solution, which means they allow water to permeate through the surface and prevent excess runoff. This helps to reduce the risk of flooding and protect the surrounding environment.
Durability
Resin-bound driveways are built to last, with a lifespan of 15-20 years. They are resistant to cracks, frost, and UV damage, ensuring that your driveway stays in top condition for years to come.
Aesthetic Appeal
With a wide range of colors and textures to choose from, a resin driveway can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your property.
Laying a Resin Driveway Over Your Existing Driveway
Factors to Consider
Surface Condition
Before installing a resin driveway over your existing driveway, it’s essential to assess the condition of the current surface. Minor cracks or small areas of damage can be repaired, but if the surface is extensively damaged or uneven, it may need to be removed and replaced with a suitable base.
Drainage
As resin driveways are permeable, it’s crucial to ensure that your existing driveway has adequate drainage in place. This may involve installing additional drainage systems or adjusting the slope of the driveway to facilitate water runoff properly.
Edging: A stable and secure edging system is necessary to prevent the resin mixture from spreading beyond the desired area. You’ll need to inspect the existing edging and, if necessary, replace or reinforce it to accommodate the new resin surface.
Thickness: To ensure the durability and longevity of your new resin driveway, it’s important to apply the correct thickness of the resin mixture. The thickness required will depend on the type and condition of your existing driveway, as well as the intended use of the new surface. For example, driveways that will be subject to heavy vehicles will require a thicker layer of resin.
Professional Installation: Although it’s possible to install a resin driveway as a DIY project, it’s highly recommended that you engage the services of an experienced professional. This will ensure that the correct preparation, installation, and finishing techniques are employed, resulting in a high-quality and long-lasting resin driveway.
Laying a resin driveway over your existing driveway is a viable and cost-effective option for transforming the appearance and functionality of your property. By taking into account the factors discussed in this article, such as surface condition, drainage, edging, thickness, and professional installation, you can enjoy a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing driveway that will last for many years to come. So, if you’re considering a driveway makeover, a resin-bound surface could be the perfect solution for you.
