Resin
Common resin driveway problems and how to avoid them
A well-laid resin drive should give you very little bother. When we're called out to look at one that's gone wrong, it's usually one of a handful of things, and most of them come down to how it was laid.
If you're about to get a resin drive, it's worth knowing what they are.
Cracking
Cracks in resin almost always come from below. Laying over a cracked or moving base, untreated joints in old concrete, or a sub-base that wasn't compacted properly will all show through in time. The fix is getting the base right before the resin goes down.
Loose stones
A few loose stones in the first week or two is normal. Stones that keep coming loose months later usually point to the wrong amount of resin in the mix, or a mix that was laid too thin. Heavy jet washing close to the surface can also loosen them.
Patchy or uneven colour
Resin is mixed in small batches. If the batches aren't weighed and mixed the same each time, you can end up with patches that look different. Some cheaper resins can also darken or yellow in sunlight. Ask for a UV-stable resin.
Cloudy or milky patches
Resin doesn't like moisture while it cures. If it's laid when rain is coming, or onto a damp base, it can go cloudy or bloom. A good installer checks the forecast and won't lay if conditions are wrong. In Manchester that sometimes means moving the date.
Puddles and slow drainage
Resin-bound lets water through, but only if the layer underneath does too. If it's laid over a solid surface with no falls, water sits on top. Over time, dirt and moss can also clog the surface. A regular sweep and an occasional wash keeps it draining. See our resin care guide.
Trowel marks and rough edges
Resin is laid by hand. A good finish is smooth and even with clean, straight edges. Visible trowel lines or ragged edges against the border usually just mean it was rushed.
What to ask before you book
- What will the resin be laid on, and will the old surface come out?
- Is the resin UV-stable?
- How thick will it be laid for a driveway?
- What edging will hold it in?
- What happens if rain is forecast on the day?
- What guarantee do I get on the workmanship?
Thinking about resin?
We lay resin-bound drives across Stockport and Greater Manchester, with a 5-year workmanship guarantee. Call 0161 825 8053 or WhatsApp 07519 945 497 for a free survey and quote, and we'll answer all of the above.
