Why a Resin Bound Driveway Is the Top Choice for Modern Homes

We’ve talked to countless homeowners who spend their weekends pulling weeds from between block paving or constantly sweeping up loose gravel. We recently spoke with a homeowner in Surrey who was fed up with their old, crumbling tarmac driveway. They made the switch to resin bound stone and a year later, they told us it was the ‘best investment we’ve ever made in the house.’ This is just one example of how a resin bound driveway can completely transform a home and solve common issues with older surfaces.

Why is a resin bound driveway the perfect choice for your home?

The appeal of a high-performance surface extends from the inside of your home to the outside. The same qualities that make resin so durable in other applications are the same ones that make a resin bound driveway work so well for your property’s exterior.

1. A Seamless, Beautiful Finish: The greatest benefit of this surface is its seamless finish. With no joints or gaps, you get a clean, uninterrupted surface that makes any space feel larger and more open. Flexflooring offers a huge variety of colours, textures, and finishes. We use both Aliphatic and Aromatic binders to achieve a beautiful finish. You can also incorporate different coloured aggregates, like a mix of ‘Golden Pea’ and ‘Silver Grey,’ to create a custom, speckled finish that perfectly matches your home’s aesthetic.
2. Built to Last, Inside and Out: A resin bound driveway is an exceptionally hard-wearing and durable material. It resists scratches, stains, and the constant pressure from vehicle tires, making it ideal for the demands of a busy household. We often add sand to the mix to increase the strength, bond and slip resistance. This durability means it stands up to constant foot traffic, parked cars, and changes in the weather, making a resin driveway a durable choice that resists wear over the long term.
3. Safety Is Built In: The strength of a properly installed resin bound driveway is a key reason homeowners choose it for their outdoor spaces. The surface provides excellent grip, even in wet or icy conditions, to keep you and your family safe.
4. A Surface for All Seasons: The strength of a properly installed resin driveway means it handles a wide range of temperatures without cracking. This thermal stability is a major benefit because it prevents the kinds of failures that happen when materials contract and expand dramatically. It’s another reason a resin bound driveway has proven so effective across the UK, as it stands up to both heat and cold.

Is a resin bound stone driveway more expensive than tarmac or gravel?

This is the most common question we get from homeowners. While the initial cost of a resin bound driveway can be slightly higher than budget options like gravel or tarmac, it’s a long-term investment that saves you money. For an average UK driveway, block paving can cost between £80 and £130 per m², while a high-quality resin surface starts at around £50 per m².

The key difference is the ongoing maintenance cost. Gravel needs constant raking, weeding, and topping up. Block paving shifts, and the gaps invite weeds and moss. A resin bound driveway stays put, remains weed-free, and requires minimal upkeep for a finish that lasts over 20 years.

Do I need planning permission for a resin driveway?

The UK government’s Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations are a major factor for new driveways. These rules aim to manage surface water runoff and prevent local flooding. If you install a traditional, impermeable driveway (like concrete or tarmac), you’ll often need to install a separate drainage system or apply for planning permission, which can add significant cost and complexity.

A resin bound driveway is naturally SuDS-compliant. Its permeable, open-pore structure acts like a giant sponge, allowing rainwater to drain directly through the surface, into the sub-base, and naturally soak away into the ground. This feature prevents puddles from forming on your driveway. It also saves you the hassle and expense of complex drainage solutions or planning applications.

Should you install a resin driveway yourself?

While DIY kits exist, we strongly advise against a DIY approach for your driveway. A successful, long-lasting resin bound driveway depends entirely on precise preparation, correct mixing, and expert application. Small mistakes can lead to major problems, and in our experience, the reason most DIY surfaces fail is that people underestimate the importance of the sub-base and the precise resin-to-aggregate ratio. Without the right tools and experience, you can end up with an uneven surface or unsightly trowel marks.

You often wipe out the initial cost you save by doing it yourself with the expense of having to repair or replace a failed surface just a year or two later. A professional installation ensures you get the durable, flawless finish you paid for and a surface that will truly last for decades.

How do you care for a new resin driveway?

A new resin bound driveway is one of the easiest surfaces to care for, but a small amount of regular maintenance will keep it looking its best. To keep your driveway looking its best:

• Regular Sweeping: Use a stiff broom to sweep away leaves and other debris.
• Pressure Wash Occasionally: Use a pressure washer on a low setting (below 150 bar) to remove any ingrained dirt or moss. Be sure to keep the nozzle at least 20cm from the surface and use a sweeping motion.
• Tackle Spills Quickly: You can clean oil or grease with warm water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use paint stripper or solvents on the surface, as they can damage the resin.

Ready to get started? With spring and summer approaching, now is the perfect time to get your project planned.

Contact us today at  01622 747909 or sales@flexflooring.co.uk to discuss your plans for a new resin bound driveway. We’ll provide a no-obligation quote and help you choose a durable, beautiful surface that fits your needs.