The ROMFIX system

The ROMFIX system provides a strong foundation for outdoor spaces and a solid base for a range of applications. This article explains how the foundation system is built and what benefits it offers.

System build-up

The ROMFIX system uses several layers to maximise load-bearing capacity. Nearly all configurations include drainage bedding mortar, bonding agent and paving jointing mortar as standard. The foundation build-up depends on the load-bearing capacity and permeability of the subgrade. We can advise you on the right build-up. 

Drainage bedding mortar

ROMFIX drainage bedding mortars combine a specially optimised binder with certified crushed stone. The mix creates a highly stable bedding layer with excellent permeability and high load-bearing capacity.

Our drainage bedding mortars have an open structure with 30% void space. This allows rainwater to infiltrate directly into the ground and keeps moisture from collecting beneath the paving. Rapid infiltration helps prevent flooding and frost heave in winter.

Bonding slurry

Paving laid on drainage bedding mortar must be bonded with ROMFIX Bonding Agent. This creates a strong bond between the paving and the bedding mortar, prevents loose paving units and extends the life of the paving. Combining drainage bedding mortar with a bonding agent also helps the jointing mortar last longer and remain permeable to gas and water.

Paving jointing mortar

ROMFIX jointing mortars create durable, permeable, low-maintenance joints. There is a suitable solution for each application.

The ROMFIX Pro+ is a two-component epoxy resin suitable for heavy traffic loads of up to 25 tonnes per axle.

The ROMFIX Pro is ideal for footpaths, traffic islands and hard-to-reach areas around features such as dividing walls, cycle stands and civil engineering structures.

The ROMFIX Easy is suitable for jointing around street furniture such as lamp posts, traffic signs and traffic lights.

The ROMFIX Easy Fijn is popular for domestic projects such as patios, garden paths and driveways.

System configurations

The ROMFIX system is configured to suit each site. There are four standard build-ups for common subgrade conditions. Each subgrade is assessed individually so the right foundation build-up can be selected and adapted as needed.

The four standard build-ups for common subgrade conditions are outlined below.

Stable sand bed build-up
This build-up is particularly suitable for patios and decorative applications.

  1. Subgrade
  2. Fill sand (adequately compacted)
  3. ROMFIX® E’Grid
  4. ROMFIX® Drainagemortel (minimum layer thickness: 5 cm)
  5. Paving treated with ROMFIX® Bonding Agent
  6. ROMFIX® Voegmortel

Load-bearing subgrade
This build-up is particularly suitable for driveways and public spaces.

  1. Subgrade
  2. ROMFIX® R’Tex (depending on the subgrade)
  3. ROMFIX® E’Grid
  4. Foundation aggregate (adequately compacted)
  5. ROMFIX® Drainagemortel
  6. Paving treated with ROMFIX® Bonding Agent (minimum layer thickness for trafficked applications: 8 cm)
  7. ROMFIX® Voegmortel

Weak subgrade
This build-up is particularly suitable for peat and clay subgrades

  1. Subgrade
  2. ROMFIX® R’Tex
  3. ROMFIX® E’Grid
  4. ROMFIX® R’Cel
  5. (Lightweight) foundation aggregate
  6. ROMFIX® Drainagemortel
  7. Paving treated with ROMFIX® Bonding Agent
  8. ROMFIX® Voegmortel

Weak subgrade with asphalt
This build-up is also particularly suitable for peat and clay subgrades

  1. Subgrade
  2. ROMFIX® R’Tex
  3. ROMFIX® E’Grid
  4. ROMFIX® R’Cel
  5. Lightweight fill
  6. ROMFIX® R’Tex
  7. ROMFIX® E’Grid
  8. Load distribution layer
  9. Asphalt

Benefits of the system

The ROMFIX system offers several benefits. Here is an overview.

High load-bearing capacity

The combination and arrangement of its layers give the ROMFIX system high load-bearing capacity. This creates a stable paved surface with minimal risk of settlement.

Water-permeable

All layers of the ROMFIX system work together to provide effective drainage. The permeable foundation layer lets rainwater infiltrate into the ground. This keeps water from collecting beneath the paving and helps prevent flooding and frost heave. 

Duurzaam

The ROMFIX system can use a thinner foundation layer than other foundation systems. This uses less material and requires fewer transport movements, reducing CO₂ emissions. 

A thinner foundation layer also requires less excavation. In areas with peat soils, this reduces disturbance and peat oxidation, which also helps reduce COâ‚‚ emissions.

To build the foundation efficiently, we often use foamed glass as fill. Its low weight allows a relatively thin layer to offset a substantial load, reducing the amount of material that needs to be excavated, removed and brought to site.

When the ROMFIX system is installed as specified, it guarantees stable, durable and low-maintenance paving. Read hier for full details of the system warranty.