The Difference Between Resin Bound Stone and Resin Bonded Stone

Posted on 19 March 2024

If you’ve been wondering about the difference between resin bound stone and resin bonded stone, you’ll find the answers that you need right here. Resin bound stone and resin bonded stone are two types of surfacing solutions that are used for landscaping and paving applications. Both systems use resin to bind aggregates together and can give you a visually appealing finish that’s incredibly durable. Each system comes complete with its own series of benefits and may help you add value to your home or business premises.

Let’s look at the difference between resin bound stone and resin bonded stone.

Resin bound stoneSheffield University Resin Mixed Stone

In these systems, the aggregate is thoroughly mixed with the resin before it is applied. This gives a smooth, permeable finish and a consistent look. Resin bound surfaces are porous, which means water can drain through them. This prevents surface water runoff and flooding. Resin bound stone offers a decorative, seamless finish. A wide range of colours is available. This stone is often used for driveways, paths and decorative landscaping.

Resin bonded stone

With this kind of system, the resin is applied to the surface before the aggregate is scattered on to it. This delivers a textured, non-porous surface with a rougher finish than a resin bound system. These systems have a sealed surface. Water cannot penetrate the surface and needs to drain off instead. Resin bonded stone offers a more textured, rugged appearance and can be ideal for customers who want to create a slip-resistant surface.

Which applications are these systems suitable for?

Resin bound surfaces are often added to driveways, paths and decorative landscaping when people require a smooth, permeable surface. Resin bonded surfaces can be ideal for walkways, ramps and other environments where slip resistance is essential. It is popular due it to its textured finish and durability in high-traffic areas.

How much maintenance do these systems need?

Both systems normally only need minimal maintenance. However, loose stones on resin bonded surfaces may need to be swept occasions. Resin may also need to be re-applied to them to maintain their appearance.

Whilst both of these systems can be very durable and visually appealing, which one is right for you depends on your specific requirements. Factors you’ll need to consider include the finish you desire, how much permeability you need and what you will be using the surface for. Your budget may also play a big role in determining which solution is right for you.

Pros and cons of resin bound and resin bonded stone

Resin Bound Stone WorkResin bound stone

Pros:

Permeability: Allows water to drain through

Smooth and seamless finish: Provides a visually appealing, decorative and smooth surface

Variety of colours and sizes: Wide range of aggregate colors and sizes are available. These allow you to customise the surface towards your specific needs

Low maintenance: These systems normally require minimal maintenance. Periodic cleaning is usually sufficient

Durability: Resin bound stone is resistant to cracking and UV degradation

Cons

Professional installation needed:  You’ll get the best results through professional installation. This can increase upfront costs but add value to your property in the long run.

Cost: Can be more expensive in comparison to other surfacing options, especially if you need it for a larger area

Resin bonded stone

Pros

Slip resistance: The textured surface provides good slip resistance which makes it suitable for pedestrian walkways and ramps

Quick installation: Resin bonded systems are generally quicker to install than resin bound systems. This can reduce labour costs

Variety of textures: Offers a rugged appearance with a variety of texture options

Cost-effective: Can be more cost-effective than resin bound stone

Cons

Non-permeable surface: Creates a non-permeable surface which requires additional drainage solutions so you can manage water runoff

Loose stones: Some loose stones may become dislodged over time. This means you’ll need to carry out periodic sweeping and other maintenance

Limited aesthetic options: Although texture options are available, the aesthetic choices can be more limited in compared to resin bound systems

Surface wear: May experience wear over time, especially in high-traffic environments

Things you’ll need to consider for both systems

UV stability: Resin systems can experience color changes or degradation over time due to UV exposure.

Temperature sensitivity: Installation is often weather-dependent. Temperature and humidity can both affect curing times.

When you’re choosing between resin bound and resin bonded stone, it’s crucial to weigh these pros and cons against the specific requirements of your project. These include your aesthetic preferences, the way you’ll be using your system, budget constraints and local regulations. To get the best results, it’s best to seek out advice from a leading source and have the installation carried out by experienced professionals.

Can these systems add value to my property?

Both of these systems can potentially add value to your property. Many people have seen their property values rise after installing resin bound stone and resin bonded stone patios and driveways. Just make sure leading professionals carry out the installation to reduce the chances of costly errors.

Who can help with resin bound surfacing in Sheffield?

Now you’ve found out more about the difference between resin bound stone and resin bonded stone, you may be wondering who can help with resin bound surfacing in Sheffield. At Resin Mixed Stone, we’ve been a leading force in our industry since 1988. All work is completed by our own internal staff rather than subcontractors. We can help whether you need commercial or domestic surfacing. No property is too big or small for us to work on. Each process is as meticulous as it is effective.

Contact us

Now is the time to get in touch if you were wondering about the difference between resin bound stone and resin bonded stone. You can reach us by giving us a call on 0114 419 0236 or by completing the form on our website. We will get back to you as quickly as we possibly can so you can swiftly get the information you need. We are more than happy to answer any questions you might have about resin bound surfacing in Sheffield.

Resin Mixed Stone
Excellent
5.0
Based on 11 reviews
review us on
Friendly, very efficient, superb work and love, love , love ❤️ the drive. Thank you
I had my old concrete driveway covered with resin bound stone, there were loads of different colour mixes to choose from, the colour I chose really enhances my house and I am so pleased with the result. I can highly recommend this company.
Highly professional operation from start to finish. The work was started and completed on time with the minimum of hassle by a great bunch of people
I am thrilled with my new resin driveway. Excellent service from Resin Mixed Stone. Thorough preparatory work resulting in a fabulous finish.The stone colour I chose matches my house stone and brightens my whole driveway up. I would definitely recommend this company.
Very professional, excellent result, resin driveway job completed earlier than expected and very neatly. Our drive has been transformed! Thankyou.
Many thanks to Richard and his team who did a fantastic work when resurfacing our drive and front of bay window with resin stone.
Resin Mixed Stone put down a resin driveway for my mother in October last year. The service and workmanship was excellent and the drive has been totally transformed from its previous old concrete look. My wife and I were so impressed that we used Resin Mixed Stone to wide our existing driveway and then cover the existing tarmac surface with a resin coat. The service and workmanship was again excellent and the new drive looks superb. I would not hesitate to recommend this company to anyone who is considering a resin surface.
From start to finish the whole service and end product has been and is fantastic. Plenty of options to choose from with samples and practical advice to make that easier. Quote was clear and care taken to measure accurately. The team that completed the work were very professional and hard-working. The finished driveway has transformed the front of our property. Would highly recommend the team. Thank-you to all the Resin Mixed Stone team.
"We are extremely pleased with the quality of the work and the outcome - a lovely driveway. Richard Lomas was very helpful at all stages and his staff were careful throughout. The preparation of the site before laying the resin was also impressive. I give this company a 5 stars recommendation."
Great professional service. Good quality work. Competitive on price.
Resurfacing patio in resin
js_loader