Whilst the terminology of resin ‘bonded’surfaces and resin ‘bound’ surfaces can be very confusing to the general consumer, especially given that the same basic materials are used in both offerings, there is a fundamental difference in the performance of these two proprietary processes when it comes to driveway applications.

The resin ‘bonded’ process involves the application of natural stone onto a pre-spread resin base that delivers a natural looking and impervious stone surface with a thickness of around 6-8mm.

Alternatively, with the resin ‘bound’system, the stone and resin are pre-mixed and then laid on the prepared substrate like a smooth floor screed with a thickness of around 15-20mm.

Whilst the smooth finish of the resin ‘bound’ system can cause slip issues in wet or icy conditions, the main problem is that this method of bonded aggregate is semi-porous and, in addition to very poor stain resistance, the surface is extremely susceptible to freeze\thaw damage and weed growth.

Often sold to the unassuming homeowner on the basis that resin ‘bound’ installations comply with the 2008 SUDS regulations, the fact of the matter is that both resin ‘bound’ and resin ‘bonded’ surfaces can be SUDS compliant and the very simple fact is that when it comes to driveway applications the resin ‘bound’ system just can not match the durability and performance criteria of its resin ‘bonded’relative.