Can You DIY a Resin-Bound Driveway Project?

Resin-bound driveways are becoming increasingly popular these days, and with good reason. In addition to being aesthetically versatile, they are highly durable, long-lasting and require very little maintenance when installed right. If you’re thinking of having a resin-bound driveway installed and are wondering if you can turn it into a DIY project, this is the article for you. 

Below, we have highlighted all you need to know about a resin driveway installation, including how to install one, what could go wrong, the costs and whether or not you should take it on as a DIY project or just hire a professional company like Kane Construction.

Cost of a resin-bound driveway

A resin-bound driveway project is no small undertaken, and having a good idea of the costs beforehand (including the cost of materials, equipments and labour) helps you avoid overspending and prepares you for what is to come. Although the cost of a resin-bound driveway falls within specific ranges, it can vary for a number of factors such as; location, the type of materials and finish, the size and condition of your driveway and the number of labour hours it would take to complete the project. On average, resin-bound driveways cost about 40-70 pounds per square meter in the UK.

How to install a resin-bound driveway

Surface preparation installing a resin-bound driveway requires multiple steps, and the first one is to prepare the existing driveway surface. Ensure that the surface is free from all moisture and contamination. The ambient temperature, humidity and ground temperature should also be tested and recorded before you apply the base. The base you use must be suitable for the load the driveway is expected to take once it is completed. Some suitable bases include; asphalt, tarmac, concrete or macadam. 

Order materials/tools – after the surface preparation, you can proceed to order necessary materials like the resin for gravel and gravel binder. To make things easier, you can order a resin driveway kit as they usually contain everything you need to complete a DIY resin driveway project. You will also need tools like a forced action mixer that can hold up to 100kg, a plasterer’s paddle, a drill, bucket, wheelbarrow, a float for spreading the material and white spirit.

Mix the materials – Organise and set the materials you’ve bought according to type and then proceed to combine them with the mixer.

Lay the driveway – this is the final step. Spread the mixed materials across your already prepared surface carefully. At this stage, you have to be very meticulous as any mistake could lead to issues with your driveway. After laying the materials, it will take about 24 hours before your resin driveway is dried enough for it to be driven on.

What can go wrong with a DIY resin-bound driveway project?

The major problems associated with resin-bound driveways can usually be traced back to improper installation. You can only enjoy the benefits of a resin-bound driveway if every stage of the DIY project is carried out accurately and meticulously. If the manufacturer guidelines are not properly followed and incorrect materials, base preparation or equipment are used, the following issues may arise; surface shading, loosening of aggregate, crumbling, cracking and fading colours (discolouration/colour patches).

In addition to affecting the look and performance of your resin-bound driveway, these problems might end up being very expensive to fix. Sometimes installing a totally new driveway might be the only solution.

Should you take on a DIY resin-bound driveway project?

Although you might be tempted to save on labour costs by installing your resin-bound driveway yourself, it is not recommended. This is because installing a resin-bound driveway requires a high level of skill and specialised equipment, coupled with accuracy at every stage of the installation process. This isn’t a one-man job, so it’s better to leave it to the professionals so you won’t end up making an expensive mistake.

Conclusion

A DIY resin-bound driveway project is a difficult task undertaken, and it can also be quite expensive. You will need to be well versed in every step of the installation process in order to get positive results. So while you can DIY a resin-bound driveway project, the smarter choice would be to leave it to the professionals.