Resin Driveways: What No One Tells You (Until It’s Too Late)
Resin-bound driveways are having a moment—and we get why. They look amazing. They drain well. And they give your home that clean, modern edge traditional driveways struggle to match.
While resin driveways can be a fantastic long-term investment, they’re not always the right choice—and definitely not when they’re installed by the wrong contractor.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What resin-bound driveways actually are
- The real pros and cons (no sales fluff)
- Common mistakes that lead to costly repairs
- How to choose the right installer
- Answers to the most frequently asked questions
What Is a Resin-Bound Driveway, Anyway?
Resin-bound surfacing is a mixture of natural aggregate stones and a clear resin. Once mixed and laid, the result is a smooth, flat, visually striking surface with no loose stones and excellent drainage.
Unlike traditional concrete or tarmac, resin allows water to pass through small gaps between the stones into a permeable base layer—making it fully compliant with SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems). This helps reduce flooding, avoids surface water runoff, and can even bypass planning permission in many cases.
🔗 Learn more about SUDS regulations from the UK Government
✅ Why Homeowners Love Resin Driveways
- Clean, modern look – No shifting bricks or grubby edges
- Puddle-free surface – Water drains through, not off
- SUDS compliant – Helps with local planning and flood prevention
- No weeds or loose gravel – Keeps your driveway tidy and low-effort
- UV stable and frost resistant – Keeps its colour and shape year-round
- Easy to clean – A quick power wash brings it back to life
- Long lifespan – When installed correctly, it can last 20–25 years
⚠️ What Most People Aren’t Told Until It’s Too Late
❌ “It’s not a DIY job.”
Some homeowners and even general landscapers try their hand at resin—and it shows. The material requires:
- Precise resin-to-stone mixing ratios
- Ideal temperature and humidity conditions
- Rapid installation before the mix sets
- Specialist tools and surface prep
Mess up any one of these? You’re looking at patches, fading, lifting, or worse.
❌ “Most failures are caused by poor installers.”
The biggest issue in the resin industry isn’t the product. It’s the people laying it.
Because resin installation isn’t tightly regulated in the UK, anyone can claim to be a resin installer. And many do—without training, insurance, or proper prep. These so-called “budget” installers often:
- Lay resin over poor or incompatible surfaces
- Skip drainage checks
- Rush the mixing process
- Cut corners on materials
Then disappear when things go wrong.
💬 “The biggest resin driveway problem? You won’t see it for months—after the installer stops picking up the phone.”
❌ “Overlaying isn’t always a good idea.”
Some contractors offer to lay resin over your existing concrete or tarmac base. Sounds convenient, right?
Not so fast.
Old concrete or tarmac is usually non-permeable. That means water won’t drain through it—even if the top layer is resin-bound. Water builds up, causing cracks, bubbling, or delamination.
It can work if the base is solid and additional drainage is added—but only after a proper site inspection.
❗ Resin should never be laid over block paving or paving slabs. These surfaces shift and flex, causing resin to crack and fail.
💰 What Does a Resin Driveway Actually Cost?
Prices vary based on location, prep, size, and materials—but here’s a ballpark:
- Resin overlay: £50–£80 per m² (riskier if base isn’t correct)
- New resin driveway from scratch: £90–£130 per m²
- Premium finishes (e.g. custom borders): Higher-end of the scale
👉 Always get a full written quote that includes base work, drainage, edge restraints, and guarantees.
🧼 Is Resin Really Low Maintenance?
Mostly—yes.
Here’s what you won’t have to do:
- Weed between bricks
- Rake gravel back into place
- Pressure wash weekly
Here’s what you should do:
- Power wash every few months to remove algae/dirt
- Use a mild detergent for oil stains
- Check for early signs of wear near edges or where cars turn
🔗 Watch: How to Clean a Resin Driveway (YouTube – 3-min guide)
🚫 When Not to Choose Resin
Resin isn’t right for everyone. Avoid it if:
- You expect frequent heavy traffic (e.g., lorries, caravans)
- You want a surface that’s easily repairable
- You’re hoping for a budget driveway
- You plan to lay it over poor or shifting surfaces
For high-weight or commercial use, concrete or reinforced block paving is usually a better fit.
🛠 How to Choose the Right Resin Installer
This is the most important part of the whole process.
Look for:
✅ Reviews with photo evidence
✅ Proof of previous jobs (especially older ones)
✅ Site survey before quoting
✅ Clear explanation of drainage approach
✅ Written guarantee
✅ UV-stable resin products
🔗 Find a certified resin installer – Resin Flooring Association (FeRFA)
❓ FAQ: Resin Driveways
Q: How long does a resin driveway last?
A: With proper installation and occasional cleaning, you can expect 20–25 years of life.
Q: Can I drive on a resin driveway with a van or SUV?
A: Yes. Standard vehicles are fine. Regular use by heavy commercial vehicles isn’t recommended.
Q: Will I need planning permission?
A: No, if the surface is SUDS-compliant (i.e., permeable resin laid over a permeable base). Always check with your local authority for large projects.
🔗 Planning Portal UK – Driveway Guidance
Q: Can you lay resin over concrete?
A: Sometimes. The base must be in excellent condition and drainage properly addressed. If not, a new base should be installed.
Q: What colours and styles are available?
A: Dozens! From natural stone tones to bold colours. You can also add borders, motifs, and custom patterns.
🔗 Resin colour selector – Addagrip
💬 Final Word: Resin Driveways Are Worth It—If Done Right
A resin-bound driveway can absolutely transform your home’s kerb appeal. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and flood-friendly. But it’s not the kind of project where you want to cut corners.
“Buy cheap, buy twice” couldn’t be truer here.
✅ Get a proper site survey
✅ Work with qualified installers
✅ Ask tough questions
✅ Read the small print
And most importantly—don’t base your decision on price alone.
📞 Ready to Talk Resin?
We offer free, no-pressure site surveys to assess your base, drainage, and suitability for resin. We’ll walk you through your options and provide a clear, all-inclusive quote.
👉 [Book your free survey now]
👉 [See our resin driveway gallery]
👉 [Get a callback from a specialist]
