The Ultimate Guide To Resin Bound Driveways

 

So you’ve seen that your neighbour has a resin driveway. Or maybe, you’ve even admired the look of them on social media?

Boasting instant kerb appeal, endless colour options while also being low maintenance, there is a lot that resin bound driveways have to offer. 

 

At Stone Warehouse, we enjoy bringing you industry insights from the world of landscaping. 

 

While we specialise in other products such as gravel and paving, we work closely alongside Long Rake Spar, who are a leading UK supplier of resin products. 

 

In today’s post, we’re here to answer your top questions about resin bound driveways to inspire your next project, and point you in the right direction of where to find the best resin bound contractors to make your dream driveway a reality. 

 

What Is Resin Bound Gravel?

Resin bound gravel is a type of outdoor surface which is made by mixing natural aggregate with a clear resin. The mixture is then evenly spread across a prepared base, which consists of several individual layers to promote stability as well as good drainage. 

 

As the stones are fully coated in the resin, they are bound together (hence the name!). However, small gaps are left in between the stones resulting in that smooth yet permeable surface. 

 

Popular for domestic driveways and paths, resin bound gravel can also be used for commercial projects. 

 

Psst, there is also such a thing as resin bonded gravel, which we’ll come onto in just a second. 

 

At Stone Warehouse, we recommend Grantex for all resin bonded and bound driveway products due to their quality and longevity.

 

Resin Bound Vs Resin Bonded: What’s The Difference?

 

If you are new to resin driveways, you could be forgiven for using ‘resin bound’ and ‘resin bonded’ interchangeably. 

 

In reality, both resin bound and resin bonded offer different ways of achieving a resin driveway. 

 

To ensure you get a result which meets your user needs and overall expectations, it’s important to understand the key differences. Namely, the varying ways the resin is prepared and applied which impact the finish and durability. 

 

The aggregate materials which can be used to create a resin bonded or bound driveway include: 

 

• Basalt
• Dolomite
• Flint shingle
• Glass
• Granite
• Marble
• Quartz
• Quartzite

 

So let’s look at how these materials are used, depending on whether the resin bound or bonded technique is used. 

 

Discover: Resin bound and bonded products near you 

 

Resin Bound

The above resin bound installation was done by SureSet Resin, using Grantex products.

 

Resin bound gravel is considered the most premium option. 

 

The installation is more thorough, as the ground preparation involves various layers of substrate and drainage grid systems. This will create the permeable surface which allows water to drain through the resin, thus also meeting SUDS compliance requirements. 

 

Once the ground is ready for the resin to be applied, the resin material is mixed with aggregate in a force-action mixer. The mixture is then trowelled onto the base in one smooth layer.

 

• Appearance: Smooth, uniform and modern. 
• Permeability: Permeable, meaning water can drain through, making it suitable for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS). 
• Average lifespan: 15-25 years. 
• Cost: More expensive due to additional groundwork and installation processes. 
• Best for: Ideal for driveways, paths and patios where a smooth finish and effective drainage are desired. 

 

Resin Bonded

Image: Resin Bonded Ltd installation using Grantex products

 

Resin bonded driveways are installed on top of an existing surface, such as concrete. 

 

Due to the lack of ground preparation, the surface is not permeable, meaning water runoff issues need to be eliminated first. However, an advantage of this installation method is that a resin bonded approach is cheaper and quicker to achieve. 

 

The technique to mix resin bonded gravel is also different. It involves applying the resin over the existing surface, before loose aggregate is scattered over the top. 

 

Once dried, this results in a rougher texture to the resin, which has the benefit of creating grip and slip-resistance. However, the resin bonded technique can result in the gravel becoming loose over time, meaning more frequent maintenance will be needed.

 

• Appearance: Textured, non-permeable and similar to loose gravel. 
• Permeability: Non-permeable, which can lead to water runoff issues. 
• Average lifespan: 10-15 years
• Cost: Cheaper and can sometimes be laid over existing surfaces, requiring less extensive preparation. 

 

Best for: Good for areas where a rustic appearance and non-permeable surface are acceptable, providing good grip and slip resistance. 

 

Resin Bonded & Bound Gravel Usage Ideas

• Commercial spaces
• Courtyards
• Decorative features
• Driveways
• Heritage areas
• Paths & walkways
• Steps & ramps

Note: Consider the usage needs of your project to select either the resin bound or resin bonded technique. 

 

Why Have Resin Driveways Become So Popular?

Resin driveways offer the perfect solution for homeowners who want a driveway or path that looks great, performs well and stands the test of time.

 

These are some of the key benefits that a resin driveway can provide, particularly when the quality of the aggregate and installation are of a high standard. 

 

Instant Kerb Appeal

Resin bonded driveways create a highly attractive, smooth surface outside of your home. If you currently have broken or uneven paving, the transformation that resin bonded aggregates can make is remarkable. 

 

Part of the magic is how resin bonded gravel is installed, with the finishing process looking similar to how your walls are plastered or rendered. Whether you opt for a uniform design or something more creative, a resin driveway is sure to make a style statement outside of your property. 

 

Resin Bound Is Permeable 

In recent years, we’ve all become aware of how heavy rainfall can lead to drainage issues and even localised flooding. As a result, it’s essential to choose permeable surfaces, especially for your driveway. 

 

Resin bound aggregates benefit from being permeable, meaning water will drain through the surface instead of collecting on top of it. 

 

So, by choosing a permeable surface material such as a resin bound drive, this helps prevent surface water from forming into puddles or leading to flooding. 

 

In the UK, permeable driveway surfaces are also a requirement to comply with SUDS regulations. 

 

Low Maintenance 

When installed properly, resin driveways (especially resin bonded driveways) require little to no maintenance. They are easy to clean with light sweeping. 

 

It’s also possible to pressure wash a resin driveway, so long as specific settings are applied to the machine to avoid damaging the surface of the resin. 

 

Other than this, a resin driveway won’t produce weeds between joints as is the case with pavers. Resin is also resistant to moss, algae and oil stains when sealed correctly.

 

Endless Colour Options 

Sometimes, the likes of paving and tarmac can feel limiting in terms of the colour options available. Resin aggregates offer a rainbow of shades to explore, including multi-tonal blends for added interest. 

 

Therefore, if you have a set idea in mind for your drive or pathways, or if you want the colour to be in keeping with a particular property style, resin bound and bonded aggregates are just the ticket.

 

Looking to add a resin surface to your commercial premises? Check out our coloured quartz resin bound aggregates at our sister company Long Rake Spar. We have a range of colour options to suit all branding identities and themed spaces! 

 

How Much Do Resin Bound Aggregates Cost?

According to our research, resin bound aggregates cost between £70 and £120 per square metre. The price depends on the quality of the material, with luxury crushed stone costing more than recycled materials. 

 

Resin bound aggregates are purchased by trades and homeowners alike. However, be aware that if you will be paying someone to install a resin driveway, then the cost of any ground preparation works and labour will be factored into the total price. 

 

How Long Do Resin Driveways Last?

Resin bound driveways offer the longest lifespan, averaging 15-25 years. This is due to the surface of a resin bound driveway being permeable. The stones are also less likely to become loose as they are fixed into position. 

 

Resin bonded driveways average 10-15 years before needing to be replaced. Therefore, anyone with a resin bonded driveway should also expect to perform maintenance to the surface over time.

 

What impacts the lifespan of a resin driveway?

• Whether you opt for resin bonded or resin bound
• Quality of the sub-base
• Approach to the material preparation 
• Drainage capabilities
• Traffic load 
• Installation conditions (dry and mild weather is best)
• UV stability 
• Weather and climate 

As with any professional service, the experience of the installer also makes a difference. If you’re a homeowner, look out for reviews, plus accreditations such as FeRFA (The Resin Flooring Association).

 

Where Can I Find Trusted Contractors?

We have a list of trusted resin-bound contractors for you here, where you can follow the link and find a local installer.

- Addagrip - Find a local installer

- Resin Bonded Ltd - Find a local installer

 

Complete Your New Resin Driveway With Our Decorative Outdoor Products

 

Once your resin drive or path is installed, there might be other areas of your outdoor space which are in need of refreshment. 

 

At Stone Warehouse, you’ll find a wide selection of decorative paving, pebbles, chippings, edging and more on our website. 

 

Some ideas to accompany your resin drive project include:

 

Raised beds - With a resin drive creating a smooth surface at ground level, raised beds can be built to add dimension and interest. Based on the colour of the resin you select, the plants can introduce some complementary colour schemes. For a contemporary approach to raised beds, check out our Core edging products. 

 

Garden furniture - From tables and chairs to hexagonal planters, garden furniture adds functionality and personality to an outdoor space. Install furniture around your resin driveway in areas such as patios, gravel or grass.  

 

Statement monolith - A monolith is a single block of stone which is designed as a statement piece. It’s possible to sculpt a resin driveway around any statement features, such as a rockery or a tree. However, you can also add other interesting features, including a monolith elsewhere in your garden. 

 

Drainage around your property - Finally, don’t forget that installing a resin bonded or bound driveway is also the perfect time to refresh any gravel or slate chippings around your brickwork. In turn, this can improve the drainage around your home while also improving your property’s appearance. 

 

Stone Warehouse - Your #1 Destination For Landscaping & Hardscaping Products UK

 

If you are planning on installing a new resin drive, we hope we’ve explained everything you need to know about the types of resin available, plus the top tips for success! 

 

At Stone Warehouse, you’ll find endless products to complete your new resin bound or bonded driveway. Our top products include gravel, chippings, pebbles, paving, edging and our new garden furniture range. 

 

Take a look around our website, or drop us a message if we can be of any assistance. 

 

Also, be sure to follow us on Instagram to see our products in action!

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