Resin Bound Driveways: Complete Cost and Installation Guide
A resin bound driveway instantly transforms the front of your home. The smooth, permeable surface is attractive, durable, and SuDS-compliant — meaning you usually don't need planning permission.
How Much Does a Resin Bound Driveway Cost?
| Driveway Size | Approximate Area | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single car | 15–20m² | £1,500–£3,000 |
| Double car | 30–40m² | £3,000–£5,500 |
| Large (3+ cars) | 50–80m² | £5,000–£10,000 |
| Full front garden | 80–120m² | £8,000–£15,000 |
Typical price per m²: £60–£120, depending on aggregate choice, existing surface condition, and edging requirements.
What Affects the Price?
Aggregate choice — Natural stone aggregates cost more than recycled or standard options. Premium blends like golden quartz or Tuscan marble add £10–£20/m².
Existing surface — Laying over a solid, level tarmac or concrete base is cheapest. If the existing surface needs removing or a new sub-base constructing, expect an additional £20–£40/m².
Edging and borders — Aluminium edging, block paving borders, or granite kerb stones all affect the final price.
Drainage — While resin bound is permeable, you may need additional drainage solutions depending on your property.
What Is Resin Bound?
Resin bound surfacing mixes natural stone aggregate with a clear UV-stable resin binder. The mixture is hand-trowelled onto a prepared base to create a smooth, flat, permeable surface.
Key characteristics:
- Permeable — water drains through, not across
- Smooth surface — pushchairs, wheelchairs, and heels won't catch
- UV stable — won't yellow or fade
- Weed resistant — no joints for weeds to grow through
- Low maintenance — occasional pressure wash
Resin Bound vs Resin Bonded
These are completely different products:
| Feature | Resin Bound | Resin Bonded |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Aggregate mixed with resin, then trowelled | Resin applied to surface, aggregate scattered on top |
| Finish | Smooth, flat | Rough, textured |
| Permeable | Yes | No |
| Durability | 15–25 years | 5–10 years |
| Loose stones | None | Common issue |
AutoResin only installs resin bound — the superior product.
Installation Process
Day 1: Preparation
- Existing surface assessed
- Edging installed (aluminium or block)
- Sub-base repaired or prepared if needed
- Levels checked for proper water drainage
Day 2–3: Application
- Aggregate and resin mixed on-site in exact ratios
- Hand-trowelled to 15–18mm depth
- Joints and edges finished by hand
- Surface compacted with specialist tools
Day 4: Curing
- Pedestrian traffic after 4–6 hours (weather dependent)
- Vehicle traffic after 24–48 hours
- Full cure at 7 days
Planning Permission
In most cases, you do NOT need planning permission for a resin bound driveway because:
- It's permeable (SuDS compliant)
- Water drains through the surface into the ground
- It meets government requirements for sustainable drainage
You may need permission if:
- Your property is listed
- You're in a conservation area
- The driveway exceeds 5m² and is NOT permeable (doesn't apply to resin bound)
Maintenance
Resin bound driveways are very low maintenance:
- Sweep leaves and debris regularly
- Pressure wash once or twice a year
- Treat any moss with a proprietary moss killer
- Avoid using de-icing salt (use sand instead)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a resin bound driveway last?
With proper installation and a solid sub-base, 15–25 years.
Will weeds grow through resin bound?
No. The fully bound surface leaves no gaps for weed growth. Occasional moss may appear in shaded areas but is easily treated.
Can I choose different colours?
Yes. We offer dozens of natural aggregate blends from golden honey to dark grey, plus bespoke blends to match your property.
Does resin bound get slippery in winter?
The textured aggregate surface provides natural slip resistance. It performs better than block paving or tarmac in wet conditions.
Ready to transform your driveway? Get a free, no-obligation quote from AutoResin.
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