Installing a DIY Gravel-Bound Driveway, Patio or Path in Easy Steps

Resin bound gravel is produced by blending natural gravel stones with a transparent resin binder, creating a surfacing material. The mixture is applied to surfaces such as driveways, pathways, and patios and smoothed out to produce a robust and visually pleasing surface.

By serving as a binding agent, the resin secures the individual gravel stones, creating a stable and strong surface that is slip-resistant, permeable, and low-maintenance. The outcome is a uniform and smooth finish that is both practical and attractive.

Tips & Precautions for Installing Resin Bound Gravel

Tips

• Many types of resins are there for different utility purposes. You must use a UV-resistant resin to prevent the surface from yellowing over time.
• Use a colour-stable, high-quality aggregate to prevent colour fading over time.
• It’s suggested to use appropriate primer on the surface before pouring the mixture to ensure good adhesion.
• After installation, add a sealant to the surface to protect against staining and water penetration.

Precautions

• Wear protective gloves and goggles when handling the resin and aggregate mixture.
• Ensure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
• Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any potential hazards.
• Use caution when working with the mixture to avoid skin contact, eye irritation, or respiratory issues.

How to Install a DIY Resin Bound Gravel?

The following are the steps involved in installing DIY resin-bound gravel driveways, paths, or patios to give an attractive look to your property.

Prepare the Surface:

1. Remove any existing surface materials like spills, concrete, asphalt or pavers that could prevent adhesion.
2. Clean the surface thoroughly with a power washer to remove dirt, debris, or loose material. Once done with the cleaning, allow the surface to fully dry before proceeding to the next step.
3. Make sure the surface is structurally sound and free from any defects
4. If there are any cracks or holes on the surface, fill them with an epoxy resin filler and allow it to dry.

Create an Edge Restraint:

An edge restraint is necessary to contain the resin-bound gravel mixture to avoid unnecessary spread outs.

1. For this, install a concrete, brick, or wood edge restraint around the perimeter of the surface.
2. Ensure the edge restraint is 25mm high to prevent the mixture from spilling over the sides.
3. Secure the edge restraint to the surface using stakes, adhesive or screws to give it a future-proof structure.

Mix the Resin and Aggregate:

There are different types of resins and aggregates, and each has different specifications. Therefore, each should be measured according to their individual requirement and manufacturer’s instructions. But the steps to do this are as follows.

1. Use an adequately powerful, clean paddle mixer to mix the resin and aggregate until a consistent and even mixture is achieved. Ensure to use the correct ratio when mixing both materials, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Avoid over-mixing the component or putting too much resin since it can cause the mixture to become too thick and difficult to work with.

Note: It is crucial to prepare the area prior to mixing as the mixture will begin to cure in approximately 10-15 minutes after being mixed to ensure a successful application of resin-bound kits.

Pour & Towel the Resin and Aggregate Mixture:

For the accurate application of resin-bound gravel to the surface, it is advisable to mark out a grid of 1m² (or 0.8m² at 18mm) using chalk or marker paint. This will help ensure the correct amount of mixture is applied to the designated area. Do this before proceeding to the next steps.

Pouring

1. Pour the mixed resin and aggregate onto the surface in sections and spread it evenly using a shovel or squeegee.
2. Work in small sections (it is better if you mark each) to ensure the mixture is level and evenly distributed.
3. Avoid pouring too much mixture at once to prevent it from drying out before it can be trowelled.

Towelling

1. Use a plastic trowel to prevent scratches and marks on the surface, and towel the surface to create a smooth and even finish.
2. Work in a circular motion to ensure the mixture is evenly spread. You can add more mixture as needed to fill any gaps or low spots.

Note: Keep repeating the pouring and towelling process in smaller sections to achieve a smooth, shiny area.

Allow to Cure

Resin bounds take some time to be cured properly, which can vary depending on the resin used. But in most cases, it takes 10-30 minutes for most of the resins to settle and dry out. All you have to do is to:

1. Allow the resin-bound gravel to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Avoid walking or driving on the surface until it is completely cured to prevent damage.
3. Clean the surface regularly using a power washer to maintain its appearance.