Creating a beautiful outdoor space that can withstand wear and tear and the weather can be challenging. The choice of materials and installation process can have a huge impact on durability and visual appeal.
If you are planning on transforming your home or workplace with a considered and tasteful approach to landscaping, then opting for resin-bound surfacing materials such as Daltex could be the answer.
What is Daltex?
Daltex system surfacing is an industry-leading form of resin-aggregate surfacing which combines a base foundation with a top layer of aggregate and resin. It is an excellent choice for hardscaping for any project.
It binds the aggregate, such as natural stone gravel, with a UV-resistant artificial resin to create a smooth top layer that is both permeable and weed-resistant.
Surfaces can be laid in a variety of colours depending on the type of aggregate used, from pale whites, through golden yellows or reds, to graphite greys and black mixes.
More importantly, when installed by a Daltex-approved company, it produces a professional, practical and visually pleasing surface you can be proud of.
The material is incredibly hard-wearing, lasting up to 20 years, and can be adapted to suit the shape and colour palette your project needs. It can be applied to many different landscaping projects across private, public and commercial properties.
What are the outdoor applications for resin-bound surfacing?
Resin-bound hardscaping has a myriad of applications for homes, schools, hospitals, parks, public spaces and businesses. Its ease of installation, its durability and its versatility across these uses make it a sound investment.
Driveways
Choosing a resin-bound driveway can save you time and effort in the long term. Due to the stones being bound, they won’t shift or find their way into your hallway like gravel would. Your driveway won’t develop bald patches where the aggregate has migrated.
It can be laid in different thicknesses with base groundworks that can support the types of vehicles you have. For example, if you regularly drive a van or RV on your driveway, a deeper base is needed.
The resin-bound surface means it is safer in the winter months, as natural rain run-off and drainage prevent flooding and puddling that can turn to ice.
Car parks
Hardstanding and car parking areas need a surface that can withstand heavy loads and be resistant to ice build-ups in the winter. Resin-bound surfacing can provide that and, with the correct depth of base material, can tolerate large vehicles without subsiding or dipping.
Patios and courtyards
The seamless surface offered by resin-bound aggregates is a low-maintenance alternative to block paving where weeds can grow through the joints, and slabs and bricks can be displaced.
Your courtyard or patio can remain pristine as resin requires only regular sweeping and the occasional jet wash for maintenance. It also has the advantage of being adaptable to slopes and irregular shapes, making your garden more appealing and accessible.
Pathways
Resin-bound aggregates are a practical, low-maintenance and environmentally friendly option for pathways. When professionally laid by an approved Daltex installer, it provides a smooth yet textured surface that is aligned with sustainable drainage systems guidance.
Sustainable drainage systems are part of government policy regarding rainwater management in public and private areas. This includes permeable surfaces and soakaways that can reduce run-off that causes overflowing sewers and localised flooding.
Pool areas
Poolside areas can be hazardous, with potential for slips and falls if not constructed correctly. The Health & Safety Executive guidelines for pool safety include floors and finishes.
The guidelines specify the need for surface roughness to provide friction, foot grip and slip resistance. It also suggests the in-laid drainage and gullies should be flush or recessed to prevent tripping. Resin-bound surfaces can accommodate these safety requirements.
Playgrounds and parks
Resin-bound aggregate can provide a stable, anti-slip surface for games and play in education and public park settings. Resin can be installed in public parks and spaces for any style of walkway, promenade or plaza.
Due to its permeable nature, it allows water to drain away, preventing flooding and puddling, making it a safer option than asphalt or concrete.
Tree pits
Tree pits are the spaces which surround the trunk and roots of a tree in an urban area. Often these can be found cut out of paved or asphalted areas.
The tree pit holds the root system and allows it to access water and nutrients without destabilising the surrounding hard surface.
Using resin-bound aggregate for the top layer of an established tree pit allows the tree to access the soil below. The surfacing allows water to permeate into the soil, while keeping the area neat and in keeping with your architectural aesthetic.
Resin-bound surfacing can also be used indoors, for example, on garage floors or in bathrooms. However, the indoor applications require a lighter aggregate and much thinner application than the outdoor installations.
