Is your driveway doing your home justice?
Does it reflect the quality and pride you put into your property?
More homeowners are asking these questions—and many are finding the answer in resin paving.
Resin driveways have seen a huge rise in popularity across the UK. Their sleek look, durability, and eco-friendly features are turning heads. But is it just a trend, or is there substance behind the style?
Let’s dive into why more people are choosing resin over traditional options like concrete, block paving, or tarmac.
What Is Resin Paving?
Resin paving is made by mixing natural aggregate stones with a clear resin binder. This mixture is laid over a stable base to create a smooth, hard-wearing surface. It’s often referred to as resin-bound surfacing—not to be confused with resin-bonded, which is a different method.
The result? A seamless finish with a modern, high-end feel.
The Growing Appeal of Resin Driveways
So, what’s driving the shift towards resin paving?
1. Visual Appeal That Stands Out
Resin driveways look sharp, neat, and modern.
They come in a wide range of colours and textures—far more than plain concrete or asphalt.
Want a natural stone look with added gloss? Resin delivers.
Prefer a bold, contemporary finish? Choose from striking aggregates and rich tones.
Example: A home in Surrey replaced its ageing block paving with a charcoal resin-bound surface mixed with white quartz. The kerb appeal instantly improved—and so did property interest.
2. Low Maintenance, High Reward
Tired of weeds popping through paving cracks?
Resin solves that.
Its smooth, joint-free surface makes it harder for weeds to take root. And it doesn’t suffer from shifting slabs or loose gravel.
Simply hose down or jet wash occasionally.
No need for frequent repairs or weed killers.
Stat to note: Homeowners report up to 70% less time spent on driveway upkeep after switching to resin.
3. Highly Permeable – Even in British Rain
British weather can be unforgiving. Flooded driveways and poor drainage are a common nuisance.
Resin-bound systems are SUDS-compliant (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems). That means water drains through the surface into the ground below—helping to reduce surface water runoff.
Ideal for areas prone to heavy rainfall.
Can reduce risk of localised flooding.
Did you know? Under certain conditions, permeable driveways may not require planning permission in the UK—another bonus.
4. Durability That Goes the Distance
When installed correctly, resin driveways last for 15 to 20 years or more.
They resist:
Cracking
Fading from UV light
Oil stains
Heavy loads (cars, vans, and even delivery trucks)
This makes them ideal for family homes and high-traffic areas.
Example: A property in Manchester reported zero cracking or fading after 8 years, despite daily use by three vehicles.
5. Fast Installation with Minimal Disruption
Worried about weeks of noise, mess, and disruption?
In many cases, resin can be laid directly over existing concrete or tarmac—cutting down on both time and cost.
Typical installation: 1–3 days
No need for major excavation
Walkable in 4–6 hours, driveable in 24
Perfect for homeowners who don’t want to live on a building site.
Resin vs Other Driveway Options
Let’s break down how resin compares to other popular driveway surfaces:
| Feature | Resin-Bound | Block Paving | Tarmac | Concrete |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic Variety | High | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Permeability | High (SUDS-compliant) | Low unless modified | Low | Very low |
| Maintenance Required | Low | Medium | Medium | High |
| Installation Time | 1–3 days | 3–7 days | 1–2 days | 2–5 days |
| Weed Resistance | High | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Longevity | 15–20 years | 10–15 years | 10–12 years | 20+ years (can crack) |
As the table shows, resin excels in key areas that matter most to homeowners.
Are There Any Downsides?
No product is perfect—and resin paving is no exception.
Things to keep in mind:
Initial cost is higher than tarmac or concrete (but often cheaper than premium block paving).
Must be installed by professionals—DIY is not recommended.
Surface can soften in extreme heat (rare in the UK but worth noting).
Cheap, poorly installed resin driveways can fail within months.
Tip: Always check for certification, customer reviews, and previous work before hiring an installer.
What Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on size, base condition, design, and location.
But as a rough guide:
Resin-bound driveway: £50–£80 per square metre
A 40m² driveway = £2,000–£3,200
That’s mid-range—more than basic gravel or tarmac, but less than premium stone paving.
Value alert: Many estate agents suggest that a resin driveway can boost curb appeal and add up to 10% to your property’s value.
Eco-Friendly Credentials
More UK homeowners are factoring sustainability into their choices.
Here’s how resin paving performs:
Uses natural stone and recycled materials in many blends.
Permeable—reduces runoff and pressure on urban drains.
Long lifespan means fewer replacements and less waste.
If sustainability matters to you, ask your installer about eco-friendly aggregates and UV-stable resin options.
Common Questions People Ask
Can resin driveways crack?
Only if installed poorly or over a weak base. With proper preparation, cracks are very rare.
Do they get slippery when wet?
No—resin surfaces are naturally textured. Anti-slip finishes can also be added.
How do I clean it?
Just sweep regularly and hose down now and then. Jet washing once or twice a year helps keep it looking new.
Does the colour fade?
Not if you use UV-stable resin. Always ask for this option.
Is it safe for pets and kids?
Absolutely. No loose stones, no toxic fumes, and no sharp edges.
So, Is Resin Right for Your Driveway?
Ask yourself:
Do you want a modern, low-maintenance driveway?
Are you dealing with drainage issues?
Are you investing in long-term property value?
Would you benefit from a fast, clean installation?
If you answered yes to most of these, resin paving might be your perfect match.
Final Thought
Your driveway is more than a patch of ground—it’s the gateway to your home.
With resin paving, you get durability, design, and drainage in one sleek solution.
The rise in popularity isn’t hype. It’s driven by results.
So the real question is:
Is it time your driveway caught up with your home? Contact us to book a free survey.