Question 1

Is resin bound paving right for my project?

Accepted Answer

Resin Bound Paving suits driveways, paths, courtyards, commercial areas when the existing substrate, traffic load, and finish expectations match the system. Surface Master checks preparation requirements, access, cure timing, and maintenance needs before recommending a scope, so the quote is based on performance rather than guesswork.

Question 2

What preparation is included before work starts?

Accepted Answer

Every project starts with a substrate assessment and preparation plan. Depending on the surface, this may include grinding, cleaning, repair review, moisture checks, masking, and staged access planning. Your written quote confirms inclusions, exclusions, finish options, and expected handover timing before work proceeds.

Question 3

What is the difference between resin bound and resin bonded?

Accepted Answer

Resin bound mixes the aggregate through the resin before laying, producing a smooth, seamless mat with no loose stone that can drain through when the base allows. Resin bonded scatters dry aggregate onto a resin-coated surface: it is more textured and higher grip, but it is effectively sealed and surface stone can work loose. Surface Master Australia installs resin bound.

Question 4

What base does resin bound paving need?

Accepted Answer

A stable, correctly graded base. New permeable installations use 100–150mm of compacted crushed sub-base with a permeable binder course; BS 7533-13 specifies a crushed 4/20mm aggregate with at least 30% voids. Edge restraint goes in before laying. Typical laid thickness is 15–20mm for paths and pool surrounds and 18–25mm for driveways.

Question 5

Is resin bound paving really permeable?

Accepted Answer

The resin bound mat itself passes water, but the pavement only drains through if the base and sub-base below are permeable and can discharge. A new permeable build-up is typically 100–150mm of compacted crushed sub-base under a permeable binder course. Over an existing sealed concrete slab the water still passes the surface, so falls, channels or edge drainage are designed into the scope.

Question 6

Is resin bound paving slippery around a pool?

Accepted Answer

Grip comes from the aggregate size and texture, and is classified under AS 4586 on the installed surface rather than on the product in general. We specify the aggregate blend for wet barefoot traffic and confirm the target slip classification and any step-edge detailing in the written scope.

Question 7

How long does resin bound paving last in Sydney?

Accepted Answer

15–25 years is realistic for a residential installation using a UV-stable aliphatic polyurethane binder over a stable base. Cheaper aromatic binders can yellow within a few years in Sydney's UV. The most common cause of early failure is movement in the base rather than wear on the binder, which is why the base assessment comes before the quote.

Question 8

How do you maintain a resin bound driveway?

Accepted Answer

Leaf blow or hose it down periodically and clean oil or organic stains promptly with warm soapy water. There is no periodic sealing cycle. Avoid close-range high-pressure washing, which can dislodge aggregate. On permeable installations, keeping silt off the surface is what keeps it draining.

Question 9

What colours are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer a wide range of natural aggregate colours and blends, from warm golds and creams to cool greys and charcoals. The colour comes from the natural stone itself, so it does not fade the way a dyed or painted surface does.