If you are a contractor or landscaper who is planning to use resin bound for your next project, you may be wondering whether you should use UV resin or non-UV resin. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between UV and non-UV resin and help you choose the right type of resin for your project.
Firstly, let's understand what UV and non-UV resin are. UV resin is a type of resin that does not discolor when exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, non-UV resin does become discolored when exposed to sunlight. Non-UV resin can also be called Buff or commercial grade resin by some suppliers.
Here are some key things to consider when choosing between UV and non-UV resin.
Discolouration: Non-UV resin can start to discolour within 3-5 days when exposed to strong UV rays during spring and summer months. This can lead to an inconsistent appearance, and it is important to use non-UV resin only on yellow/brown and darker aggregates as the discolouration will show less. In contrast, UV resin won't discolour, making it ideal for use with all colours including lighter colours.
Cost: The average difference in cost between using a UV-stable resin and a non-UV stable resin is around £6.00 per M2 plus vat. Therefore, if you are planning a project of about 50 M2, the cost difference can be around £300 plus vat. Always clarify with your supplier if the resin is UV stable or non-UV stable before making a purchase.
Strength and flexibility: Non-UV resin is strong and has been used on many commercial projects for a long time. However, it is more brittle than UV resin once cured, making it more prone to breaking or potential cracks. In contrast, UV resin is more flexible, which reduces the likelihood of breakage.
Workability: In warmer weather, UV resin is much more workable than non-UV resin, making it easier to manage, manipulate and achieve a better finish. Non-UV resin is also much more reactive with damp conditions and humidity in the air than UV resin.
Longevity: While non-UV resin options are cheaper, it is essential to factor in the needs of your client and the aesthetics of the project. Both resins are extremely durable but UV resin is the ideal choice for projects where color consistency and design is important.
Weighing up the pros and cons.
If your project requires a long-lasting, durable finish that won't discolour, UV resin is the clear choice. This is particularly important for high traffic areas or outdoor surfaces that will be exposed to sunlight. While UV resin is more expensive than non-UV resin, the added cost is well worth it for the superior quality and longevity on colour it provides.
On the other hand, if cost is a significant factor in your decision-making, non-UV resin may be a better option. However, it's important to remember that non-UV resin is more likely to discolour and can be more brittle than UV resin.
When deciding between UV and non-UV resin, it's also important to consider the specific colour and type of aggregates you'll be using. Non-UV resin can be used with yellow/brown and darker aggregates, as the discolouration will show less. In contrast, UV resin is ideal for use with lighter colours.
In addition, consider the weather conditions during the time of installation. In warmer weather, UV resin is much more workable than non-UV resin, making it easier to manage, manipulate and achieve a better finish. Non-UV resin is more reactive with damp conditions and humidity in the air than UV resin, which can make it more difficult to work with in certain conditions.
Overall, the decision of whether to use UV or non-UV resin will depend on your specific project requirements, budget, and the weather conditions during installation. While UV resin may be more expensive, it provides superior colour and design options making it the ideal choice for high traffic areas or outdoor surfaces. On the other hand, non-UV resin may be more cost-effective, but it may not be suitable for all types of projects. Ultimately, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.