DIY or Hire a Pro? The Ultimate Guide to Resin Bound Driveways

Resin bound driveways have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their unique blend of durability, permeability, and aesthetic appeal. This type of driveway involves the mixing of resin and aggregate materials, which are then spread over a prepared surface to create a seamless and highly durable surface.

However, when it comes to installing a resin bound driveway, homeowners are often faced with a difficult decision: should they attempt a DIY installation, or hire a professional contractor to do the job? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the best decision for your specific needs.

DIY Resin Bound Driveways

Pros:

Cost-effective: One of the most significant advantages of a DIY resin bound driveway is cost savings. By doing the installation yourself, you can save a significant amount of money on labour costs.

Flexibility: DIY resin bound driveway installations offer a lot of flexibility in terms of customisation. You can choose the exact aggregate materials, resin colour, and design features that you want for your driveway.

Learning opportunity: If you enjoy DIY projects, installing a resin bound driveway can be a great learning opportunity. You'll learn new skills, and gain a sense of satisfaction from completing the project yourself.

Read also: Resin Bound Kits: An Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Choice for Your Next Project

Cons:

Time-consuming: Installing a resin bound driveway is a time-consuming process that requires a lot of preparation, mixing, and spreading of materials. If you have a busy schedule or limited time, a DIY installation may not be the best option.

Lack of experience: Resin bound driveway installations require a lot of skill and experience to get right. If you've never done this type of work before, there is a risk that you'll make mistakes or encounter issues that could compromise the integrity of your driveway.

Limited warranty: DIY installations typically come with limited or no warranty coverage. If something goes wrong with your driveway, you'll be responsible for fixing it yourself.

Hiring a Professional Contractor

Pros:

Expertise: Professional resin bound driveway contractors have the expertise, experience, and equipment necessary to complete a high-quality installation. They can ensure that your driveway is level, durable, and visually appealing.

Time-saving: Hiring a professional contractor will save you a significant amount of time, as they have the resources to complete the installation quickly and efficiently.

Warranty coverage: Reputable contractors will typically offer a warranty for their work, giving you peace of mind in the event that something goes wrong with your driveway.

Cons:

Cost: The biggest disadvantage of hiring a professional contractor is the cost. Resin bound driveway installations can be expensive, and you'll need to pay for both materials and labour.

Limited customisation: When you hire a professional contractor, you'll have less control over the design and customisation of your driveway. You'll need to work within the contractor's capabilities and preferences.

Finding the right contractor: Finding a reputable and reliable resin bound driveway contractor can be a challenge. You'll need to do your research and ask for recommendations to ensure that you're hiring someone who will do a good job.

Read also: From Driveways to Patios: How Resin Bound Kits Provide a Versatile and Cost-Effective Solution

When it comes to resin bound driveways, it's important to remember that this type of installation requires careful planning and preparation. This is true regardless of whether you decide to attempt a DIY installation or hire a professional contractor. Here are some additional factors to consider before making your decision:

Surface preparation: Before you can begin the resin bound installation process, you'll need to ensure that the surface is clean, level, and free of debris. This involves removing any existing surface material, such as asphalt or concrete, and preparing the subbase with a suitable aggregate material. If you're not comfortable with this type of work, or if you don't have the right equipment, it's best to hire a professional to handle this part of the process.

Materials: When it comes to resin bound driveways, the quality of the materials you use can make a big difference in terms of durability and longevity. Professional contractors typically have access to high-quality materials that may not be readily available to the general public. However, if you do decide to attempt a DIY installation, it's important to invest in high-quality materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Maintenance: Resin bound driveways require regular maintenance to keep them looking and performing their best. This may include sweeping or power washing the surface to remove dirt and debris, and resealing the surface periodically to protect it from UV damage and wear and tear. If you're not comfortable with this type of maintenance, or if you don't have the time or resources to do it yourself, it's worth considering hiring a professional contractor to handle it for you.

Permeability: One of the key advantages of resin bound driveways is their permeability, which allows rainwater to drain away naturally. However, it's important to ensure that your installation is permeable to avoid water pooling and potential damage to the surface. This requires careful attention to detail during the installation process, as well as ongoing maintenance to prevent blockages and maintain the permeability of the surface.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the decision of whether to attempt a DIY resin bound driveway installation or hire a professional contractor will depend on your specific needs, budget, and skill level. If you have the time, skills, and patience to complete a DIY installation, you can save a significant amount of money and enjoy the satisfaction of completing the project yourself. However, if you want a high-quality, durable, and professionally installed driveway, it's best to hire a reputable contractor with the expertise and equipment necessary to do the job right.