12 Year Review

The following pictures are from a project installed over 12 years ago.  The wet look has vanished leaving the natural stone appearance.  The system remains strong with no visible signs of weakening.  There were no loose stones on the top surface and the system is performing the same as when it was first installed.  Since the bonding agent creates a solid monolithic surface in some areas a few cracks were visible.  It is recommended to install expansion joint cut into the system to allow additional movement from freeze-thaw cycles. After inspection there is no doubt the porous system will withstand another 12 years.

Product History

In the mid 1990's our chemical laboratory was approached by several historical societies about the problem of bonding together pea gravel for most of the pathways located at their historical public properties.  Back in the late 1700's and 1800's traditional pathways and driveways were constructed of loose decorative stone and pea gravel.  Portland cement was not available until the late 19th century, so most public pathways were crushed gravel or pea gravel mixed with sand or clay.  The problem was how to maintain the historical appearance of the architecture of that time, and making the pea gravel ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) compliant to meet the building practices of the 21st century   The end result had to be a natural crushed gravel or pea gravel surface that is held in place and wheelchair friendly.  The surface would have to withstand the everyday pedestrian traffic associated with public buildings and tourist locations.

The only answer was a moisture curing liquid polymer which became inert after curing.  The polyeurethane liquid enabled the bonding of a wide variety of aggregates and creates a long lasting pavement surface.  Initial projects installed back in the mid 1990's are still performing today without any required maintenance.  The resin is strong enough for driveways as well, but other considerations should be taken when creating a pavement supporting vehicular traffic.

Today the product is available to contractors, builders, architects and homeowners for use across a wide variety of applications.  Visit www.Gravel-Lok.com to learn more about this exciting  product.