✓ Fact: Resin bound driveways are a type of permeable driveway that allows water to pass through thus reducing the risk of flooding and promoting groundwater recharge.
What Is A Resin Bound Driveway?
Resin bound consists of a mixture of aggregate (such as gravel or crushed stone) and a clear, UV-resistant resin binding agent. With regards to resin driveways, the mixture can be mixed on site (regardless of the weather) and poured directly onto an existing surface, which can then be trowelled to a smooth, even finish.
When referring to resin driveways, there are two types of resin systems that can be used and they are often confused as they same. The difference is that a resin bound system is where the mixture of resin and aggregates are mixed together before its laid whereas a resin bond system is where the resin is spread first and then the aggregates are scattered on top. With regards to the preferred system to use for driveways, resin bound is best because its SUDS compliant due to the fact that its permeable.
What Are The Benefits?
- Durable and long-lasting with a lifespan of 15-20 years or more.
- Low-maintenance and easy to clean.
- Attractive, natural-looking surface that can complement a wide variety of homes.
- Permeable as it allows water to pass through the surface and into the ground which helps to prevent flooding and water runoff.
- Environmentally friendly because its made from natural materials.
- Doesn’t require the use of heavy machinery or equipment during the installation.
- Resistant to UV rays and stains, which protects the colour and finish of the driveway.
- Can be installed over existing surfaces, making it a cost-effective solution.
- Offers a wide range of design options and it can be customized to match the colour and style of any property.
- Provides a slip-resistant surface, which makes it safe to walk on in any weather condition.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
- Initial installation cost can be higher than traditional driveway materials.
- Requires a skilled and experienced installer to ensure proper installation and a quality finish.
- It isn’t suitable for heavy loads, such as vehicles with heavy loads.
- Not suitable for extreme cold temperatures because the resin can become brittle and crack.
- Not suitable for areas with heavy tree roots, as roots can grow through the surface and cause damage.
To conclude, resin bound driveways are a cost-effective (in the long term), low maintenance and eco-friendly method of improving your driveway or patio. However, the initial installation costs (as discussed below) make it less popular than block paving driveways or tarmac driveways.
How Much Does A Resin Driveway Cost?
On average, a basic resin driveway can cost anywhere from £80 to £100 per square meter. This cost includes the labour and materials for the installation with a standard aggregate used and no additional features or designs. If you opt for a more premium resin and larger aggregate, the cost can increase to £120 to £180 per square meter.
It’s worth pointing out that adding additional features such as anti-slip pro crushed glass or specific designs can increase the cost of a resin driveway even further.
Therefore, taking into account the cost of a resin driveway per square meter, you can approximate the cost for standard sized driveways as shown in the table below:
| Quality | Small, One Car, 11.5m² | Small, Two Cars, 25m² | Average, 50m² | Large, 100m² |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Resin & Aggregate | £920 – £1,150 | £2,000 – £2,500 | £4,000 – £5,000 | £8,000 – £10,000 |
| Premium Resin & Aggregate | £1,380- £2,070 | £3,000 – £4,500 | £6,000 – £9,000 | £12.000 – £18,000 |
What Factors Affects The Cost To Install A Resin Driveway?
- Size of the Driveway: The larger the area to be covered, the more material and labour will be required.
- Type of Resin: Different types of resin have different price points with some being more expensive than others. For example, a UV-stable resin will cost more than a standard resin.
- Surface Preparation: If the surface of the driveway is uneven or requires extensive preparation such as removing old pavement or levelling the ground, this’ll add to the cost.
- Additional Features: Additional features will add to the overall cost and this can include borders, edging, drainage or a specific pattern.
- Location: The cost of labour and materials can vary depending on location with prices being higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
How Long Do Resin Driveways Last?
Resin driveways are known for their durability and longevity with a lifespan of 15-20 years or more. However, the actual lifespan of a resin driveway can vary depending on a number of factors such as the quality of the materials used, the skill of the installer and the level of maintenance and care provided.
The quality of the resin and aggregate used in the driveway can play a significant role in determining its lifespan. This is because a higher quality resin will be more durable and resistant to UV rays and other environmental factors, which can help prolong the life of the driveway.
A skilled installer is also a crucial factor in determining the lifespan of a resin driveway. For example, a poorly installed driveway may not be properly levelled or compacted, which can lead to cracking or unevenness over time.
Regular maintenance and care (i.e. brushing and hosing down the driveway) also plays a role because it helps to remove debris and prevent staining. Additionally, taking steps to protect the driveway from oil or other chemicals can also help to prolong its lifespan.
What’s Involved In Installing Resin Driveways
1. Get Quotations
Contact multiple professional resin driveway companies for quotes and compare their qualifications, completion times and installation costs.
2. Resin Driveway Design
Choose the desired colour, size of aggregate, edging, resin type and quality with the help of the chosen professional. Once you’ve decided, the company you have chosen to lay the resin will order the required materials.
3. Prepare The Driveway
The professionals will begin to prepare the driveway by removing existing tarmac or gravel for a stable base and removing earth if using larger aggregate.
4. Install Edging (Optional)
Next, the installation of edging will start and they’ll install it so that it stands at least 15-20mm above the base for structural shape and to prevent loose stones.
5. Lay The Resin
The resin and aggregates will then be laid using a forced action mixer and drill. Once laid, the race is then on to ensure that it’s flattened to provide a smooth, even finish.
6. Allow The Resin To Dry
Now that the hard work is done, you’ll then want to allow the driveway to set. Ideally, you’ll want to wait at least 12 hours before walking on it and 24 hours before driving on to it.
Can You Install A Resin Driveway On Top of Block Paving?
It is possible to install a resin driveway on top of block paving but this doesn’t mean that its always the best option. This is because it’ll depend on the condition of the existing block paving and whether it’s suitable as a base for the resin.
If the block paving is in good condition and is also level, it can provide a suitable base for the resin. However, if the block paving is damaged or uneven, it may not provide a stable foundation for the resin and could result in cracking or unevenness in the finished surface of the resin driveway.
Conclusion
Resin bound driveways are a great investment and I’ve personally had them laid upon my current and previous personal home. Not only do they look great but the limited maintenance required (occasional sweeping and hosing down) and durability are worth the premium costs involved with the installation.
If you require further information with regards to the cost of a resin driveway, feel free to get in touch and we will try to provide our assistance where possible.
Written By Danny Morgan
Danny is a property developer by trade with over 15 houses successfully rennovated from the bottom up but other than rennovating houses, he's also a car enthusiast with multiple classic and performance cars.
If you want to find out more about Danny, our testing process or the website itself, visit our about page for further information.
Danny's Expertise
✔ Construction/Property Development
✔ House Rennovations
✔ Plumbing & Electrics
✔ Cars (Mechanically & Buying/Selling)
✔ Gardening (Heavy Duty & Big Projects)
Citations:
- Resin Installation Steps, Resin Install Ltd, (https://resininstall.co.uk/resin-driveways/resin-driveway-installation-guide)
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CF11 9LL, UK