The first question for any budding DIYer is, ‘What experience do I have of wet trades?’ Do you have experience with concrete or resin mixtures?
If YES….that’s great, continue.
If you don’t but are still eager………..read on too!
A Quartz Resin Driveway Enhancing the look of a traditionally designed house
Being familiar with ‘wet trades’ (mixing concrete, plastering etc) means you know that where mixing is concerned…..there’s always a time limit (which can create pressure).
In terms of driveway installations the only surfacing products that don’t have time pressure are block paving and gravel installations. Whilst there are many skilled block paving installers out there, they’re not under as much pressure to get things right and have time for error and subsequent correction, if required. In comparison, skilled wet tradesmen must get a mix right and apply in good time….and finish before setting.
But it’s more than just getting the mixture right. Laying is just as important.
There are some great examples out there of ‘handy DIYers‘ installing resin but if an area is very large or has existing drainage issues…..it may be best to get a professional in.
Resin Driveways DIY – Preparation
It’s highly unlikely that a DIYer will attempt full excavation and installation of a new sub base! So our preparation is limited to making good an existing concrete surface.
Firstly, sweep off, jet wash and then acid wash the existing concrete surface. This will remove any loose material.
Secondly, with concrete it’s a good idea to grind the surface by a couple of millimetres to improve adhesion of resin when applied. If any cracks are present (less than 10mm) use an Epoxy repair mortar mix and fill. Anything bigger than this may require the section to be cut out….and made good.
Resin Driveways DIY WARNING: Some manufacturers of resin sell extra products for the purposes of making an existing surface better for resin installation. Choosing the right manufacturer of resin is KEY to getting a decent installation. More on this below.
Thirdly, wash off the surface and allow the area to completely dry. And that means ‘bone dry’. Whilst this can be difficult in the UK for most of the year, hot air lances (which are like mini flame throwers) are relatively inexpensive to hire. Well worth it, though to speed up the drying process.
Finally, mask up around the the edges – unless you want resin along the bottom edges of walls!
- Ready to go! But get some help – friends or family will do.
- Resin sets very quickly – IF you’re not intending to hire a ‘forced action mixer‘ make sure you use a plasterer’s mixing attachment or something similar. This will ensure mixing is consistent and quick.
- Mix resin and apply to area using a notched squeegee or for larger areas use a rake or shovel.
- Cover approximately 1 – 2 Square Metres at a time, evenly to the depth recommended by the manufacturer.
- Apply and ensure consistent even coverage.
We’re always looking for interesting DIY driveway experiences, so make sure you tell us all about your DIY resin installations!
Drivewaywise………..Knowledge you can Trust.
