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      5. Concrete Block Paving vs Resin Surfacing

      As the great debates of our time go, this one’s perhaps not up there. However, if you’re looking to improve the appearance of the exterior of your home with a decorative driveway, it’ll be a question that’s not so very far from your mind. In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the concrete block paving vs resin surfacing question.

      Resin Bound and Resin Bonded Products

      Before we do, as resin surfacing is a relatively new product, it’s worth looking at the two types of resin surface usually available. Resin bonded and resin bound surfacing are both constructed using aggregates (gravel) which are either mixed with (resin bound) or scattered over (resin bonded) resinous materials.

      The processes both fix the gravel in place – a better solution than traditional gravel which tends to move around, usually away from where it’s supposed to be! Resin bound decorative driveways are porous, allowing ground water to drain away whilst resin bonded are less so. Concrete block paving should need no introduction, so let’s now look at the pros and cons.

      Designer Decorative Driveways

      When it comes to aesthetics we like to think that resin surfacing wins hands down every time. This is due mostly to the sheer amount of choice you have when it comes to gravel, in terms of both colour and size. Because the gravel is fixed in place you can also create stunning patterns and unique designs, in a very short space of time.

      Colour, pattern and fast application, who could ask for anything more? Concrete block paving tends to look ‘blocky’ whichever way you look at it, literally.  Although you can create patterns, it’s more time consuming than with a resin decorative driveway and paving will take longer to set in place; meaning you’ll have to avoid the drive for a while.

      Maintenance

      Maintenance is a big issue for most home-owners. Well laid block paving will be relatively low maintenance but will need repair over time, either to cracked blocks or to the areas around joints.  Weeds are pretty tough, and they’ll eventually find a way to slip through the cracks. Algae or moss can also be an issue with concrete block paving.

      Resin surfaces are long lasting, slip resistant and weeds will find it very difficult (if not impossible) to get a root-hold. Resin surfaces can be quickly brushed down or professionally pressure washed once in a while to keep their looks as fresh and stunning as the day they were laid. As low maintenance goes, resin surfacing is the winner.

      Wow Factor

      Practical and hard-wearing might be more important – and whilst resin surfacing is certainly this – it also really does have the ‘wow’ factor. The flexibility and options on offer allow you to create a bespoke design that is truly unique. Sadly, block paving has never had that exact ‘wow’ factor, more of an ‘ugh’ factor, in truth! It’s certainly solid, and well-laid paving can look great. But why go for great when you can have fantastic? Makes sense really!

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