Resin
bound surfacing system
SureSet resin bound surfacing proves ideal for larger areas - North Somerset Magistrates' Court provides the latest evidence
To many specifiers the SureSet resin bound surfacing system
is synonymous with small decorative or feature areas but, in
reality, the system is now frequently being used as an
alternative to traditional paving or surfacing materials on
major projects. A prime example of this activity can be seen at
the newly constructed North Somerset Magistrates’ Court at St
Georges, Weston-super-Mare. This contract carried out on behalf
of leading surfacing contractor, Spadeoak, utilises 2,100
sq.metres of natural gravel and 47 sq.metres of 10mm rounded
gravel for the Tree Pits, providing not just a surface with a
seven year guarantee for the materials but an aesthetically
pleasing and safe end result very much in keeping with the
development.
BONDED OR BOUND SURFACES – IS THERE A DIFFERENCE?
There is sometimes confusion between resin bound SureSet and
resin bonded competitive systems. A resin bound system is
impregnated all the way through in its entirety, each particle
of material being fully coated with resin, giving durability
and, most importantly, a safe finish with no loose material.
Resin bound treatments invariably only have a base coat of resin
upon which the aggregate is laid, with a top sealing coat. This
treatment requires removal of loose aggregate subsequent to
laying and, obviously, lacks the integral strength of SureSet.
Depth of material also differs greatly; bonded surfaces are only
lain to 3mm with SureSet being lain to 12mm to 24mm, not just
for increased durability but the company consider this depth
essential to give an acceptable even surface.
Although the North Somerset Magistrates’ Court project
highlights the potential of SureSet as a surfacing system for
larger areas other application possibilities are endless with
the system having been used extensively elsewhere for access
roads and car parks, driveways, footpaths and cycleways, patios
and pool surrounds and even internally. In addition to natural
gravel 1,000 plus formulae are available, including recycled
glass in a variety of colours, imported marble or even crushed
CD’s. SureSet believe the features their system offers are
second to none and, as mentioned previously, come with a
guarantee recently extended to seven years.
The North Somerset Magistrates’ Court is a PFI project owned and
operated by Services Support (Avon & Somerset) Ltd.
SureSet provides a nationwide supply and lay service for the
larger contract and for designers and specifiers comprehensive
data in PDF format can be downloaded from the company’s web site
www.sureset.co.uk
Email:
roger.morland@orange.fr