Resin Verses Block Paving – Which Is Better?

Here is a simple summary of the pro’s & con’s of block paving and resin driveways and patios to help you decide on which is the best solution for you

Appearance

Surface Type Look & Style
Resin Sleek, smooth, seamless. Many colors & stone blends available. Very modern.
Block Paving Traditional look, with patterns possible. Visible joints/lines.
Tarmac Plain black or red. More functional than decorative.

Permeability (Drainage)

Surface Type Water Drainage
Resin Yes – fully permeable (if installed correctly with porous base).
Block Paving Only permeable with special blocks or jointing. May require planning permission.
Tarmac No – water runs off unless combined with drainage systems.

Maintenance

Surface Type Maintenance Level
Resin Low – Sweep and power wash occasionally. Weeds unlikely.
Block Paving Medium – Weeds in joints, needs regular sanding/sealing.
Tarmac Low – May fade, crack or develop potholes over time. Needs re-sealing.

Durability & Lifespan

Surface Type Expected Lifespan
Resin 15–20+ years (with UV-stable resin and proper base).
Block Paving 20+ years but prone to sinking if not laid correctly.
Tarmac 10–15 years – can degrade quicker under heavy vehicles.

Installation Time

Surface Type Speed of Installation
Resin Fast – typically 1–2 days over suitable base.
Block Paving Slower – each block laid by hand, may take several days.
Tarmac Fast – usually laid in a day, but requires curing.

Slip Resistance

Surface Type Safety Level
Resin Excellent – anti-slip finishes available.
Block Paving Good – though can be slippery when wet or mossy.
Tarmac Fair – can become slippery in winter.

Overall Summary

Surface Best For
Resin Modern look, low maintenance, great drainage.
Block Paving Classic style, decorative patterns.
Tarmac Budget-friendly, practical, fast install.

The Benefits of a Resin Driveway: Why You Should Consider One for Your Home

A resin driveway is rapidly becoming a popular choice among homeowners for its blend of functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. If you’re considering upgrading your driveway, resin may be the perfect solution. Here, we’ll explore the many benefits of resin driveways and why they are an excellent investment for your home.

large resin driveway Stockport

1. Aesthetic Appeal

Resin driveways offer unmatched visual appeal. Available in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes, they can be tailored to complement the architectural style of your home. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek appearance or a more traditional look, resin provides the flexibility to create a driveway that enhances your property’s curb appeal.

Additionally, resin driveways are seamless, which means no unsightly joints or lines. They provide a smooth and uniform finish, adding to their overall elegance.

2. Durability and Longevity

Resin driveways are highly durable and can withstand heavy loads, making them an ideal choice for homes with multiple vehicles. They are resistant to cracking, meaning they maintain their appearance and functionality for years without the need for constant repairs.

The combination of a strong resin binder and an aggregate mix ensures that your driveway can handle the wear and tear of daily use, extreme weather conditions, and temperature fluctuations without degrading.

3. Low Maintenance

One of the most significant benefits of resin driveways is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike traditional driveways such as gravel, which require frequent upkeep, resin driveways only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking pristine.

A simple wash with a garden hose or pressure washer is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The smooth surface also prevents weeds from growing, eliminating the need for regular weeding.

4. Permeability and Eco-Friendliness

Resin driveways are permeable, meaning they allow water to drain through the surface rather than pooling on top. This is achieved through a porous design, which complies with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) regulations.

The permeability helps to reduce the risk of flooding and waterlogging, making resin driveways an environmentally friendly option. By preventing standing water, they also reduce the likelihood of icy patches forming in winter, improving safety.

5. Quick Installation

Compared to other driveway materials, resin driveways can be installed relatively quickly, minimising disruption to your home. The process involves preparing the base, applying the resin and aggregate mix, and allowing it to cure. Depending on the size of the area, a resin driveway can often be completed within a day or two.

Additionally, resin driveways can often be laid over an existing surface, such as concrete or tarmac, provided it is in good condition. This reduces the need for extensive groundwork and speeds up installation.

6. Slip Resistance

Safety is an important consideration for any driveway, and resin driveways excel in this area. Their textured surface provides excellent grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls, even in wet conditions.

Anti-slip additives can also be incorporated into the resin mix for added safety, making it an ideal choice for families with young children or elderly members.

7. Cost-Effective

While the initial cost of a resin driveway may be higher than some traditional materials, it is a cost-effective option in the long run. Its durability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to wear and tear mean you save on repair and upkeep costs over the years.

Additionally, its longevity ensures that you won’t need to replace your driveway for decades, providing excellent value for money.

8. Resistant to Fading

Resin driveways are UV-stable, meaning they won’t fade or discolour over time, even with prolonged exposure to sunlight. This ensures your driveway maintains its vibrant appearance for years, unlike other materials that may dull or degrade under UV exposure.

9. Customisable

With resin driveways, the design possibilities are virtually endless. You can choose from a wide range of colours and aggregates to create a truly unique driveway that reflects your personal style. From bold, eye-catching designs to subtle, understated finishes, resin driveways offer unparalleled customisation.

Borders, patterns, and even logos can be incorporated into the design, making your driveway a standout feature of your home.

10. Resistant to Oil and Stains

Traditional driveways often suffer from oil stains or discolouration caused by spilled liquids. Resin driveways, however, are resistant to such stains. The non-porous nature of the resin binder prevents liquids from penetrating the surface, making it easy to clean up spills before they cause damage.

11. Weather Resistant

Resin driveways are built to withstand the elements. They are resistant to freezing, thawing, and UV damage, ensuring they perform well in all seasons. The surface does not become brittle in winter or soften in summer, making it a reliable choice for year-round use.

12. Adds Property Value

A well-maintained resin driveway can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase its market value. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with attractive and functional driveways, making resin a smart investment if you plan to sell in the future.

Resin driveways offer a perfect combination of style, durability, and practicality. Their aesthetic appeal, low maintenance requirements, and long lifespan make them a standout choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their driveways. With added benefits such as permeability, slip resistance, and weather durability, resin driveways are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option.

Whether you’re building a new driveway or replacing an old one, a resin driveway is a smart investment that enhances both the functionality and appearance of your property. Contact a trusted driveway specialist to explore your options and bring your dream driveway to life.