looding is a growing concern, especially in urban areas with hard, non-porous surfaces that prevent water from draining naturally into the ground like Lincoln and the surrounding areas. Resin bound surfaces offer an effective solution, helping to reduce the risk of flooding by using permeable materials that allow water to drain through. Here’s how:
1. Permeable Surface for Natural Drainage
One of the great benefits of resin bound surfacing is its permeability. Unlike traditional materials like concrete or tarmac, which are impermeable and cause water to run off into drains, resin bound surfaces are designed to allow water to filter through them. This natural drainage system mimics the natural ground’s ability to absorb rainwater, helping prevent pooling and reducing the risk of localised flooding.
A resin bound driveway, patio, or path has small gaps between the stones, allowing rainwater to flow through and into the ground, even during heavy rain. This characteristic makes it compliant with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), which are crucial for managing stormwater and avoiding overloading drainage systems.
For more about the benefits of permeable driveways, the UK government provides guidelines in their publication on Permeable Surfacing of Front Gardens. This highlights how homeowners can reduce flood risks and improve drainage with the right materials.
2. Reducing Surface Runoff
In urban areas, surface runoff is one of the biggest contributors to flooding. When rainwater runs off hard surfaces such as driveways, patios, and pavements, it accumulates and can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to floods. Resin bound surfacing helps by reducing surface runoff through its porous structure. This not only prevents large volumes of water from flowing into drains but also slows down the speed at which water is released into the environment, helping drainage systems cope more effectively.
This reduction in surface runoff also benefits the surrounding environment by reducing the risk of water contamination from pollutants that typically collect on impermeable surfaces, such as oil or chemicals from cars.
3. Compliance with Planning Regulations
In the UK, planning regulations require that driveways and paved areas larger than 5 square meters be built using permeable materials or a drainage system to manage water runoff effectively. Resin bound surfaces are ideal for meeting these requirements without compromising the look of your property. In fact, the UK government has mandated that new developments must include sustainable drainage solutions to help mitigate flood risks.
For more information on planning rules and how permeable driveways can help you comply, visit gov.uk
4. Supporting Urban Flood Prevention
In cities like Lincoln, where natural ground is often replaced by hard surfaces, resin bound driveways, paths, and patios provide a more sustainable alternative. By allowing water to filter through rather than run off into streets and drains, resin bound surfaces can help reduce the strain on public drainage systems, lowering the chances of urban flooding during heavy rains.
This is particularly important in areas prone to flash floods, where large volumes of water overwhelm local drainage systems. A permeable resin bound surface ensures water is absorbed back into the ground, helping maintain natural water levels and reducing the likelihood of floods.
5. Low-Maintenance and Eco-Friendly
Resin bound surfaces not only help with flood prevention but are also low-maintenance and environmentally friendly. They prevent the buildup of surface water, which can lead to algae, moss, or weed growth, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Additionally, the natural stones used in resin bound surfaces can often be sourced from sustainable quarries, adding to the eco-friendly benefits.
For more details on how resin bound driveways compare with traditional options and why they’re a low-maintenance, eco-friendly choice, see our 5 Benefits of Choosing a Resin Bound Driveway blog.
Conclusion
Resin bound surfaces are a practical, eco-friendly solution to flood prevention. By allowing rainwater to drain naturally through the surface, they reduce the risk of flooding and help ease the strain on drainage systems, particularly in urban areas. If you’re looking for a driveway, path, or patio that’s not only stylish but also helps protect your home from the effects of heavy rainfall, resin bound surfacing is an ideal choice.
For more information on how resin bound surfacing can improve your home’s flood resilience, contact us today or explore more in our blog.
FAQs
How do resin bound surfaces help prevent flooding?
Resin bound surfaces are permeable, allowing water to drain through the surface into the ground, which helps prevent water from pooling and reduces the risk of localised flooding. This makes them ideal for managing rainwater and reducing surface runoff.
Are resin bound driveways compliant with UK planning regulations?
Yes, resin bound driveways are compliant with UK planning regulations, particularly with requirements related to permeable surfaces. They help manage water runoff, making them a suitable option for developments that need to meet sustainable drainage requirements.
Can resin bound surfaces reduce surface runoff in urban areas?
Yes, resin bound surfaces reduce surface runoff by allowing rainwater to filter through the surface. This helps prevent overwhelming drainage systems, which is especially beneficial in urban areas prone to flooding.
