The weather can be a major factor when deciding to install a resin-bound driveway. Resin-bound systems can be affected by cold weather, and many people are unaware that this can also be an issue in hot climates.
Heat Wave…
As the temperature rises, the mixture will get thinner and less dense.
Resin-bound stone can only be installed in certain temperatures. The majority of the resins used in resin-bound stone are engineered to work best at 23 degrees Celsius.
It has a predetermined cure period.
As the temperature rises, the resin thins out and finally fails to adhere to the aggregate as intended. As a result, the stones will eventually fall loose, necessitating repairs to the installation.
Although hot weather is rare in the UK, it has highlighted some of the challenges that could arise when attempting to install resin-bound stone outside of the ideal circumstances.
During installation, the stone and resin mix is placed onto a prepared surface and trowelled into place. The installer then needs to ensure that the mixture is left to cure for the correct amount of time so that it sets hard.
Cold Conditions…
Installation of resin bound must be done in a dry environment.
When the condition is resolved, the rain will filter through, leaving no standing water or puddling.
Frost won’t harm the actual resin. Any water that freezes in the aggregate spaces will remain on the surface until the voids melt away.
Salt can be used to defrost ice on surfaces that are frozen.
Snow shovels can be used to clear the area instead of snow ploughs, which are not advised.
If the temperature is too cold, the resin will not set hard and will be susceptible to damage from frost and freezing temperatures. If the temperature is too hot, the resin will set too quickly and can be difficult to work with.
It is important to check the weather forecast before starting any work on a resin-bound system, as even a short spell of bad weather can cause problems. If the weather is due to take a turn for the worse, it is best to postpone the work until conditions are more favorable.
If you do need to install in hot weather, there are a few things that you can do to make the process easier. Firstly, try to work in the shade as much as possible to avoid the heat of the sun causing the mixture to set too quickly.
Secondly, use a slow-setting resin so that you have more time to work with the mixture. And finally, make sure that you have plenty of ventilation in the area where you are working to prevent the fumes from the resin from becoming overpowering.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to install your resin-bound system in hot weather without any problems. Just make sure that you check the forecast before starting work, and be prepared to stop if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Contact us today at Resin Driveways Wigan to speak with our experts. We are looking forward to your call.
