A common question from customers, especially in the domestic market, is: What is a suitable base for resin bound stone? While resin bound stone can be laid over various bases, its durability and longevity heavily depend on the pre-existing surface. As a general rule, concrete or tarmac are the best options, but each base has its advantages and disadvantages.
The Importance of a Suitable Base
Resin bound stone can be used to extend the lifespan of existing concrete and tarmacadam surfaces, offering an economical way to refresh tired driveways, patios, and paths. However, when installing from scratch, selecting a proper sub-base and base is crucial to avoid cracking, movement, and long-term damage.
Permeable Tarmac – The Preferred Choice
Our go-to base for resin bound stone installations is permeable tarmac. This material offers several key advantages:
- Minimal Expansion & No Expansion Joints – Unlike concrete, tarmac does not expand significantly, eliminating the need for expansion joints.
- Flexibility & Reduced Cracking – Tarmac is a flexible material, meaning it absorbs movement better, reducing the risk of cracks in the resin bound stone layer.
- Seamless Installation – Tarmac provides a smooth and stable surface, ensuring the resin follows the base contours effectively.
However, installing permeable tarmac requires specialist equipment and skilled workmanship to ensure long-term durability.
Concrete – A Cost-Effective Alternative
Concrete is another widely used base for resin bound stone, but it comes with both benefits and challenges:
- Lower Cost – Standard concrete is often cheaper than tarmac.
- Risk of Cracking – If not installed properly, concrete is prone to cracking, and these cracks can later reflect through the resin surface.
- Expansion Joints – Unlike tarmac, concrete requires expansion joints, which can lead to aesthetic and structural issues over time.
- Curing Time – Concrete takes time to fully cure before resin can be applied, leading to potential delays in the installation process.
Permeable Concrete – A New Option
A new type of permeable concrete has recently entered the UK market. Though more expensive than traditional concrete, it offers a blend of permeability and strength:
- Eco-Friendly Composition – Made using lime, water, and stone, this system is a more sustainable option.
- Combines the Strength of Concrete with the Permeability of Tarmac – Ideal for those looking for both drainage efficiency and durability.
EcoGrids – A Reinforcement Option
Though less common, EcoGrids provide an alternative ground reinforcement system, particularly for patios and pathways where tarmac or concrete may not be viable.
Benefits of EcoGrids:
- Stabilizes & Reinforces the Ground
- Lightweight & Easy to Install
- Best for Areas with Limited Access
Flexy-Pave – A Highly Flexible, Eco-Friendly Option
A lesser-known but highly flexible base option for resin bound stone is Flexy-Pave. As the name suggests, this material offers exceptional flexibility and is also porous, making it one of the most eco-friendly base choices.
Key Features of Flexy-Pave:
- Made from Recycled Tyres – A sustainable, environmentally friendly option.
- Rubber & Stone Blend – Mixed in equal weight with a one-part, high-tensile polyurethane binder.
- Fast Installation & Overlay – Can be laid quickly and is suitable for medium to light traffic.
While Flexy-Pave is a great option for certain projects, it is not suitable for heavy vehicle traffic, making it better suited for pedestrian areas, patios, and pathways.
Choosing the Right Base for Your Resin Bound Stone Surface
Selecting the best base for your resin bound driveway, patio, or pathway depends on various factors such as budget, traffic load, and drainage requirements:
✔ Permeable Tarmac – Best overall choice for durability and flexibility.
✔ Standard Concrete – A cost-effective alternative but requires expansion joints.
✔ Permeable Concrete – A newer, eco-friendly option that balances strength and permeability.
✔ EcoGrids – Ideal for areas with restricted access and light use.
✔ Flexy-Pave – The most eco-friendly choice, perfect for pathways and patios.
Understanding the strengths and limitations of each base ensures your resin bound stone surface remains strong, durable, and visually appealing for years to come.