What is Resin Bound?

Resin bound is kiln-dried clean aggregate that’s mixed with a polyurethane resin in a forced action mixer and then trowelled into place at a minimum depth.

The system is based on stones covered equally in resin, which when consolidated bind together creating a smooth, strong, and permeable surface.

The system is capable of dissipating 850 litres of water per m2 per minute. When installed on a suitable subbase and base it is classed as sustainable urban drainage compliant (SuDS). Compliant systems are a natural approach to managing drainage in and around properties and other developments. SuDS works by slowing and holding back the water (usually rainwater) that runs off from a site, allowing natural processes to break down pollutants and dissipate them into the ground.

Resin bound can be part of a SuDS-compliant system and as such is not subject to current planning approval. It is important that the system has the appropriate base and sub-base to be classed as compliant. 

To successfully mix the resin with the aggregate you need to use a ‘forced action’ mixer. This horizontal mixer will give an even coating of resin to each stone. Unfortunately, you cannot use a conventional cement mixer as the resin pools at the bottom of the drum and can leave some stones without an adequate coating of resin.

The product once mixed is then spread out across the base and is trowelled into place by hand.

The minimum depth is three times the maximum aggregate size is used. A mix typically consists of 3 x bags – 75kgs (3 x 25kgs) of a 2-5mm stone and 1 x 25kgs bag of 1-3mm stone, together with the resin. The maximum size of aggregate size is therefore 5mm. The resin bound surface needs to be 3 x 5mm as a minimum giving a depth of 15mm.

At 18mm the resin bound is strong enough to support vehicles up to a weight of 7.5 Tonnes, which will give you the highest tensile strength possible with a reduced risk of reflective cracking. This would cover most camper vans, caravans and 4x4s. A depth of 15mm is suitable for paths, walkways and patio. his increase in depth will ensure that you install a strong and long-lasting surface dressing.

Resin bound is a smooth, hardwearing, and aesthetically pleasing product with no visible joint lines. Its 44 different colour combinations can be used to create contrasting designs such as borders, paths, logos and geometric shapes.  This gives almost limitless options for individual designs with a wide range of textures and colours. 

Resin bound must be mixed in a specialist mixer called a “forced action mixer”.  This mixer was pioneered in the render market as it mixed all the contents in an equal way.  You cannot use a conventional belle mixer.  Using a belle mixer causes the resin to sump at the bottom of the pan and can leave pockets of dry stone.  It is uneven in its mixing and can create problems from dry spots to areas that are too resin rich.

PolyBound, sell resin kits, a full range of decorative aggregates, primer and all the required tools and ancillaries – call now on 01274 044 199