Is a Resin Driveway Cheaper Than Paving? A Cost Comparison That Might Surprise You
When it comes to installing or renovating a driveway, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Is a resin driveway cheaper than paving?”
While cost is an important factor, it’s not the only one. At Resins ‘R’ Us, we believe that resin-bound driveways offer exceptional value – not just in upfront cost, but in long-term benefits, aesthetics, and performance.
In this post, we’ll explore the true cost comparison between resin and traditional paving, and why more landscapers and installers are choosing resin-bound systems for their clients.
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What Is a Resin Driveway?
Before we dive into the cost, it’s important to clarify what we mean by a resin driveway.
There are two main types:
Resin-Bound Driveways: A mixture of resin and aggregates blended together before being laid. This creates a smooth, permeable, and highly durable surface.
Resin-Bonded Driveways: Resin is applied to the surface, and aggregate is scattered on top, which can be less durable and not SUDS-compliant.
At Resins ‘R’ Us, we specialise in resin-bound systems – the gold standard in the industry- offering a seamless, attractive, and long-lasting finish that ticks all the boxes.
Upfront Costs: Resin vs. Traditional Paving
Let’s start with the question everyone wants answered: What’s cheaper – resin or paving?
- Material Costs
Resin Bound: £40–£70 per m² (depending on depth and aggregate chosen)
Block Paving: £50–£100 per m² (higher for premium stone options)
Tarmac/Asphalt: £40–£60 per m²
Concrete Paving Slabs: £60–£120 per m² (especially for patterned or coloured finishes)
From a purely materials standpoint, resin-bound driveways are highly competitive, especially when compared to mid- or high-end paving options.
- Installation Time and Labour
Resin-bound systems are quicker and easier to install than traditional block paving, which involves individual placement, cutting, and sanding. Less labour means reduced costs, particularly for driveway installers looking to maximise efficiency and client satisfaction.
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Long-Term Value: Maintenance and Durability
While upfront cost is important, lifetime value is where resin really shines.
- Durability
Resin-bound surfaces are incredibly strong and flexible. They are:
- Resistant to cracking
- UV-stable (no fading over time)
- Capable of withstanding extreme weather
Traditional paving can become uneven due to ground movement or suffer from frost damage over time. Repairs often involve removing and replacing individual stones or slabs – a time-consuming and costly process.
- Maintenance
Resin-bound driveways are virtually maintenance-free:
- No weeding between slabs
- No moss build-up due to permeability
- Easy to clean with a pressure washer
Compare this with block paving, which can suffer from weed growth, staining, and subsidence, costing homeowners time and money in upkeep.
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Aesthetics and Customisation
Resin-bound driveways offer limitless design potential, allowing installers to:
- Choose from a wide range of natural aggregates and colours
- Create bespoke borders, logos, or patterns
- Blend perfectly into any property style – modern or traditional
- Paving options are more limited in design flexibility and can look tired or dated over time.
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Environmental Benefits and SUDS Compliance
One major advantage of resin-bound driveways is that they are SUDS compliant (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems), meaning:
- Water drains naturally through the surface
- No pooling or surface runoff
- Often no need for planning permission (unlike some impermeable surfaces)
Traditional paving, especially concrete and tarmac, often requires additional drainage solutions, which can add cost and complexity to a project.
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Hidden Costs of Traditional Paving
What many homeowners and even some contractors don’t consider are the hidden costs of traditional paving:
- Sub-base adjustments: Paving often needs a thicker sub-base due to uneven load distribution
- Replacements: Paving stones may crack or sink, requiring replacements
- Cleaning & sealing: Block paving often requires sealing to maintain appearance
- Legal issues: Non-permeable paving may fall foul of local drainage regulations
With resin-bound systems, many of these costs are eliminated or significantly reduced, making it a more cost-effective solution over time.
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Why Resin Bound is the Installer’s Choice
At Resins ‘R’ Us, we supply premium resin-bound aggregates and kits to professional landscapers and driveway installers across the UK. Here’s why our clients are increasingly choosing resin for their projects:
- Speed of installation: Complete driveways in 1–2 days
- Less mess, less disruption: Minimal excavation required
- Happy homeowners: Clients love the look, feel, and performance
- Business growth: Resin driveways are in high demand
Our resin-bound systems are designed for maximum workability and durability, with top-quality UV-stable resins and consistent, attractive aggregates.
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Conclusion: Is Resin Cheaper Than Paving?
Short answer? Often, yes – and even when it isn’t, it’s worth it.
When you look at the full picture, initial cost, installation time, maintenance, durability, aesthetics, and environmental compliance, resin-bound driveways offer unbeatable value.
While some budget installations of block paving or tarmac might seem cheaper upfront, the long-term benefits and customer satisfaction with resin-bound surfacing far outweigh the alternatives.
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Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re an installer looking for reliable, high-quality resin supplies or a homeowner exploring your options, Resins ‘R’ Us has everything you need to make your next project a success.
From UV-stable resin kits to decorative aggregates in dozens of colours, we’ve got the quality stock, service, and expertise to help you deliver stunning, long-lasting resin-bound driveways.
👉 Contact our team today on 01508 500888, email sales@resinsrus.co.uk or browse our full product range online here https://resinsrus.co.uk/store/
