A resin-bound driveway adds a stylish and functional touch to your property, but if flaws occur, problems quickly follow.
This is why it is vital to know what options you have when it comes to repairing a resin-bound driveway, and the Resin Crew is here to assist you manage your existing driveway or resin-bound surfaces.
A resin-bound driveway can crack due to various reasons, including:
One of the primary causes of cracking is inadequate base preparation. If the ground beneath the resin-bound surface is not compacted correctly or prepared, it can lead to movement and settling, resulting in cracks. For more learnings, you can check out our post "Do Resin Driveways Crack".
The quality of the resin and aggregate used in the driveway construction can affect its durability. Inferior or low-grade resin-bound stone materials may not have the strength and flexibility to withstand fluctuations in temperature and heavy loads, leading to cracks.
Extreme temperature changes can cause resin-bound driveways to expand and contract. When exposed to intense heat or freezing temperatures, ta resin-bound driveway may undergo significant expansion or contraction, leading to cracks.
Excessive weight or frequent heavy traffic can stress the driveway surface, causing it to crack. This is particularly true if the base layers need to be adequately designed to support the expected load.
Resin-bound driveways require sufficient curing time for the resin to set and harden fully. If the curing process is rushed or incomplete, the durable driveway may not achieve maximum strength, making the resin-driveway more prone to cracking.
Tree roots have the potential to exert significant pressure on a driveway over time. If there are trees or large shrubs close to the resin-bound driveway, their root systems can grow beneath the resin-bound paving, exerting force and leading to cracks, which can be a safety hazard.
Natural soil movement or geological factors can cause the ground beneath the driveway to shift or settle. This movement can result in the formation of cracks in the existing resin.
To minimise the risk of cracking, it is essential to ensure proper base preparation, use high-quality materials, allow for adequate curing time, and consider factors like temperature changes and heavy loads during construction.
Regular maintenance and addressing any issues can also help prevent and mitigate cracking in resin-bound paving and driveways.
Reflective cracking in resin-bound driveways refers to the occurrence of cracks on the surface of the driveway that mirror or "reflect" cracks present in the underlying layers, typically the existing concrete or asphalt substrate.
When you apply a resin-bound overlay over an existing cracked surface, the cracks in the substrate can eventually propagate through the new resin-bound layer, leading to reflective cracks on the surface. These cracks tend to align with the underlying cracks, resulting in a pattern reflecting the original surface's condition.
Reflective cracking can occur due to a few reasons:
To minimise reflective cracking in resin-bound driveways, it is vital to address any existing cracks in the substrate before applying the overlay. This can involve repairing or filling the cracks and using a crack isolation layer to prevent the transmission of cracks to the new surface. Additionally, ensuring that the resin-bound mixture has the appropriate flexibility and resilience helps reduce the likelihood of reflective cracking.
To fix a cracked resin driveway surface, follow these steps:
Clean the driveway: Start by thoroughly cleaning the cracked area of the resin driveway. Remove loose stones, debris, dirt, or vegetation using a broom, brush, or pressure washer. Ensure the surface is free from any contaminants that could interfere with the repair process. For more information, you can check out our post "Can You Jet Wash Resin Driveways".
Assess the extent of the cracks: Examine the cracks to determine their size and severity. If the cracks are minor, such as hairline or small surface cracks, you may be able to repair them yourself.
Prepare the cracks: Use a chisel, screwdriver, or other suitable tools to widen and clean the cracks carefully. This helps create a better bonding area for the repair material. Remove any loose or damaged resin from the cracks.
Fill the cracks: Select an appropriate crack filler or repair material designed explicitly for resin driveway repairs. Epoxy-based or polyurethane-based crack fillers are best for such repairs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix and apply the filler, ensuring it fills the cracks. Use a trowel or putty knife to smooth the repair material.
Allow for curing: Give the crack filler sufficient time to cure and harden according to the manufacturer's instructions. Depending on the product and environmental conditions, this may take several hours.
Resin driveways can be resealed by applying a fresh layer to the resin-bound surfacing after cleaning and repairing any damage. The process involves preparing the resin driveway, applying the new resin, allowing it to cure, and performing final checks.
The life expectancy of a resin-bound driveway ranges from 15 to 25 years, depending on factors such as material quality, installation, maintenance, climate, and usage. Regular upkeep and addressing issues promptly can help extend its lifespan. You can also check out our post "How Long Do Resin Driveways Last" for more additional insights.
Cracks are a concern in a resin driveway, particularly with a new resin-bound stone surface, but you can repair cracks and gaps in resin-bound surfacing.
