Resin-bound paving is popular among landscapers and construction experts for its versatility, eco-friendliness, and beauty. However, you must consider what must go under it, whether you’re considering this paving for a public walkway, commercial landscaping project, or a garden. A proper base layer grants structural integrity and ensures the paving stays intact and lasts a long time. So, what bases can you use with resin-bound systems? Here’s a breakdown of the best base options and their specific benefits for permeable paving.

What Is Resin-Bound Paving?

First, a quick introduction to resin-bound paving. These paving systems combine natural aggregates, such as small stones, with a durable resin to create a smooth, seamless surface. Unlike traditional paving methods, the material lets water flow through the surface and re-enter the ground. Therefore, resin-bound paving minimizes pooling or flooding during heavy rain and thaws. As a result, it’s a sustainable choice for multiple projects. Its stunning visual appeal and variety make it a favorite for homeowners, businesses, and urban planners seeking a prettier paving alternative.

Striving for aesthetics is all well and good but looks and style aren’t the whole story. What needs to happen below the surface to ensure a successful permeable paving job?

Compacted Type 1 Aggregate Base

Compacted type 1 aggregate base is one of the most common options for a resin-bound system. Manufacturers create compacted type 1 aggregate using crushed stone, providing a stable foundation for the resin-bound layer. They level loose aggregate and compact it to create a firm, even surface. Other benefits include:

• Excellent load-bearing capacity, ideal for areas with heavy vehicular traffic.
• Better facilitation of water drainage through its compact but porous composition.
• Easy installation and ready availability.

Architects often pick this option for its balance of affordability and durability, making it a practical base for projects ranging from parking spaces to public pathways.

Permeable Sub-Bases

Choose a permeable sub-base when permeability is a top priority. This type of paving usually includes angular gravel or crushed stone, supporting the flow of water while maintaining a strong structural foundation. Other advantages of permeable sub-bases include:

• Enhancement of the eco-friendly quality of the resin-bound system to promote water infiltration.
• Practically eliminates water pooling, making it a perfect choice for regions subject to heavy rainfall.
• Minimizes paving’s environmental impact by allowing water to naturally re-enter the ground.

Is stormwater management a key concern for the property? Permeable sub-bases are especially effective. Cities and towns seeking to eliminate the heat island effect during hot weather or who wish to improve urban green spaces favor this kind of base.

Stabilized Aggregate Bases

Manufacturers create a stabilized aggregate base by treating loose aggregate material with a binding substance. This treatment improves the base and paving’s load-bearing capacity and durability. Manufacturers treat bases this way to create a cohesive layer and enhance a foundation’s stability. Other key benefits of stabilized aggregate bases include:

• Superior strength, readying it for heavy-duty applications, such as parking lots.
• Preventing the displacement of aggregates and maintaining integrity over the course of time.
• Reducing the risk of uneven surfaces forming due to settling or shifting.

Choose a stabilized aggregate base if you’re dealing with a high-traffic area or space that requires longevity and wear resistance.

Graded Crushed Stone

Graded crushed stone is a classic when it comes to paving. Graded crushed stone ensures a permeable, well-draining foundation. This base material is available in various sizes and types of stone and forms a robust layer due to firm compaction. Other pluses include:

• An interlocking structure that provides superior stability for the resin-bound layer.
• Porosity that offers excellent and ongoing water drainage capability.
• Easily customizable to match specific project requirements, ensuring adaptability.

Graded crushed stone offers that all-important versatility, making it a favored choice for residential and commercial applications.

Specialized Resin-Bound Base Layers

Sometimes, you require a base that goes above and beyond. Employ a specialized resin-bound base layer for projects demanding a high standard of performance. These bases are perfectly compatible with resin systems. Professionals often install specialized resin-bound base layers as part of a complete package offered by resin paving suppliers. Other advantages include:

• Resin-bound system engineering, ensuring ideal adhesion and performance.
• Consistent permeability and load-bearing capacity.
• Pre-tested by suppliers to meet industry standards.

Specialized bases can come with higher upfront costs, but their reliability and longevity justify the investment, especially for high-profile or large-scale projects.

Why Is Choosing the Right Base Important?

Every endeavor needs a firm foundation if it wants to succeed. It’s a bit more literal when choosing the right base for paving. A base layer directly affects the structural integrity, water drainage capacity, and overall strength of your paving. An inappropriate or poorly prepared base may cause several problems down the line. Cracking, sinking, and reduced permeability are all a given where poor bases are concerned. Selecting the right base involves considering all factors and possible permutations. For example, the intended use of the space (pedestrian versus vehicular traffic), local climate and flooding conditions, and the project’s budget.

Next Steps

We’ve answered the question, what bases can be used with resin-bound systems? Now, what is your vision of the perfect paving solution for your project? Choosing the right base is as important as the paving itself when it comes to resin-bound systems. The right choice depends on your project’s unique requirements, whether you opt for compacted aggregate, permeable sub-bases, treated materials, or graded crushed stone. A professional contractor familiar with resin-bound systems will help you pick the best base and what goes over it. Take your time researching and choosing the right base. Don’t compromise; a great base provides multi-year support for its performance and a longer working life, year in and year out.

Rockpave is your ideal partner if you’re considering resin-bound paving. Our innovative approach will help you create durable, beautiful, and sustainable spaces. Learn more about resin-bound paving by contacting us. We’ve been in the paving business for years. We’re ready to answer all your questions and explain how it’s a modern and eco-friendly solution for outdoor and indoor surfaces. Contact us for a consultation today! We look forward to hearing from you.