Resin Bound Gravel Maintenance & Aftercare Guide – Cleaning, Care and Long-Term Performance
Resin bound gravel is a popular surface choice for driveways, paths and feature areas due to its smooth finish and permeability. However, correct resin bound gravel maintenance and aftercare is essential to prevent staining, surface damage and weed growth. This guide outlines routine, annual and long-term maintenance steps to help protect resin bound surfaces and ensure lasting performance.
Resin bound gravel projects include pathways, driveways, car parks and features, mainly in domestic gardens.
Resin bound features are made by mixing a clear, UV stable, two part polyurethane resin with a specific ratio of natural gravels or shingles covering the aggregates enabling a smooth, durable surface, usually laid over a permeable concrete or tarmacadam base as a veneer.
Routine Maintenance – Weekly or Monthly as Required
Sweeping – by hand broom – to remove leaves, dirt and detritus, grit or organic debris to prevent staining and discourage moss or algae growth.
Remove any pollutants, including oil, cooking fat, leaf tannins, sap, wine or coffee spills promptly to prevent staining, by use of cold water (warm soapy water for oil and brake fluid spills) and stiff brushes. Avoid using any chemical cleaners unless specifically recommended by suppliers.
Weedkilling may be required, as seeds may be dropped by birds, or blow in with the wind. Either remove by hand (avoiding using any sharp metallic tools) or with a low strength weedkiller. Too strong a mix may cause discolouration. Do not use ferrous moss killers.
Avoid dragging heavy objects such as wheeled bins, gas cylinders or furniture across the surface, as this may cause scratches.
Annual Maintenance – Depending on Site Conditions
Clear all leaves and debris from the surface, using rubber or plastic shovels and a stiff broom. Avoid using any cleaning chemicals unless approved by the suppliers. If necessary, use soft sand in the event of ice forming on the surface. Avoid sharp grits that can damage the surface.
Clean the surface using a power wash with low pressure nozzle with a wide spread, at least 20cm away from the surface at 60 degrees.
Clean any stains as possible, using cleaners recommended by the suppliers.
Longer Term Maintenance – As Required, According to Site Conditions
Check the area for any signs of weakening or loss of resin bounding, and address any necessary spot repairs before they grow larger. (This phenomenon may occur where constant turning of stationary parked wheels are likely to create a ‘screwing’ or ‘boring’ action on a regular basis). Tyre marks may be a problem, and are best removed with either white spirit, an emulsifier and a pressure washer.
To ensure the longest possible life for your investment, keep a diary or log of the site conditions and works programme undertaken.
ALL NATURAL MATERIALS CHANGE COLOUR AFTER EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT AND THE ELEMENTS. Any changes should not be seen as defects.
