HMS discusses the durability of resin surfacing for high-traffic areas and commercial use
Resin surfacing’s sleek finish, broad colour options and low-maintenance features make it a contemporary alternative to traditional paving materials such as tarmac, block paving and concrete.
But when it comes to heavy traffic and commercial applications, the big question remains: is resin surfacing durable enough?
The type of resin surfacing matters
Before we address durability, it’s essential to distinguish between the different types of resin surfacing:
Resin bound paving mixes stones with resin and is laid as a smooth, permeable surface. It allows water to drain through, making it SuDS-compliant, less prone to loose stones and weather damage.
Resin bonded paving installations involve spreading resin onto a surface and then scattering loose aggregate over the top, giving it a textured, non-permeable finish. While it provides excellent grip, it is less robust under very heavy traffic.
High friction or anti-skid surfacing employs the same installation process as resin bonded, but it uses calcined bauxite (a very hard, angular aggregate with a high PSV) and a high-performance, rapid-curing epoxy or polyurethane resin. It creates a high-friction, slip-resistant surface that helps lower the risk of road accidents. This treatment is mainly applied at accident-prone spots, such as sharp bends, junctions, roundabouts and pedestrian crossings, to improve road safety and safeguard pedestrians.
EPDM wet pour is a rubber safety surfacing system that’s most commonly used in playgrounds, schools, sports areas and recreational spaces. It provides excellent impact absorption, is weather-resistant and has a long-lasting colour stability. Additionally, its seamless, porous finish enables effective drainage, reducing surface water accumulation and the risk of slips, while providing a safe and visually appealing surface suitable for all ages.
Flexible rubber and aggregate paving is a combination of 50% recycled rubber granules (for flexibility and impact absorption) and 50% natural aggregate (for strength and stability), which are then bound together with a polyurethane resin. This is then laid to create a smooth, permeable surface, often used for pathways in parks, bridleways, leisure facilities and schools.
The most durable surfacing system for longevity varies depending on its specific use, but resin bound paving generally remains the most resilient choice for commercial applications.
Strength and load-bearing capacity
When correctly installed, resin bound surfacing is exceptionally durable. With suitable depth and aggregate size, it can easily support weights of up to 7.5 tonnes to accommodate:
Cars and vans in car parks
HGVs and delivery lorries in service yards
Forklifts and trolleys in logistics areas
Typical commercial installations are laid to a thickness of 22mm or more (compared with 15-18mm for domestic driveways). This additional depth ensures a stronger bond and improved load distribution.
Resistance to wear and tear
Unlike asphalt, which can soften during extreme heat, or traditional block paving, which can shift when subjected to heavy loads, resin bound surfacing creates a seamless, smooth surface. This design helps prevent movement, rut formation, and significantly reduces weed growth, making it a durable and low-maintenance choice.
The surface remains UV-stable when high-quality resins are used, preventing fading or discolouration in sun-exposed areas, ensuring it stays looking great for years.
Key advantages for commercial use
Durability: Properly installed resin bound systems can last 15–20 years with minimal maintenance.
Low maintenance: Routine sweeping and occasional jet-washing keep resin bound surfaces clean and safe.
Slip-resistant: Anti-slip finishes, such as crushed glass, can be incorporated when laying resin bound paving, making them ideal for pedestrian-heavy areas like shopping centres or school entrances.
Aesthetics: Resin bound’s smooth, elegant finish makes a strong first impression for many businesses. At the same time, its wide variety of aggregate colours also enables them to match their branding or craft custom designs.
Compliance: SuDS-compliant, resin bound reduces the need for additional drainage systems, a significant advantage in planning approvals.
Limitations to consider
Base preparation is crucial. Resin bound surfacing is only as strong as the base beneath it. A poorly prepared base will lead to cracking and failures.
Installation conditions. Cold, wet, or very hot weather can compromise the quality of the installation.
Not for extreme industrial loads. While suitable for car parks, access roads and commercial forecourts, very high-load areas (e.g., ports, airports or heavy industrial areas) may require reinforced concrete.
To conclude, resin bound surfacing is more than durable enough for most commercial and heavy-traffic environments, provided it is specified, installed and maintained correctly.
With a lifespan of up to twenty years, resistance to weathering and compliance with modern drainage standards, it provides an attractive, practical and durable solution for car parks, retail spaces, hospitality venues and more.
In short, resin bound surfacing is durable enough for heavy traffic, when installed correctly.
Looking for a professional installer?
Look no further. With over 30 years of experience in resin surfacing, HMS has extensive expertise in installing resin bound paving across a wide range of commercial settings.
From housing developments and town centre pedestrian areas to leisure facilities and heritage sites, our skilled team delivers high-quality installations designed to last for years while maintaining their outstanding appearance.
