Resin driveway FAQ

Resin bound aggregate is essentially natural aggregates mixed with a two-part polyurethane resin which can then be trowelled on to a suitable surface to create the stunning patios, paths and driveways shown in our projects.

Resin bound stone is the product of mixing kiln dried aggregate with a two part polyurethane resin in a forced action mixer. The resulting mixture is then trowelled onto a suitable surface at a depth of 18mm. The main advantage of this solution is the durability, smooth look and permeability which makes it the number one choice.
Resin bonded stone is the result of spreading a film of resin onto a suitable non-porous surface which is then dressed with kiln dried aggregate. The thickness of this can vary from 3-6mm depending on the size of the aggregate used. Its main advantage is the natural look of the stones in addition to increased slip resistance.

Both resin bound and bonded stone are suitable for vehicular traffic and have their place on the market depending on their application.

Each project is different and will require varying amounts of detail.
The cost per square metre is dependent on the size of the area in question. As the area becomes larger, the cost per square metre will decrease owing to economies of scale.

Resin bound stone can be the cheapest alternative when there is an existing suitable base. This is often utilised where the existing base is no longer aesthetically pleasing as the resin bound stone can be applied with minimal preparation. In doing this, the life of the existing surface can be extended by a minimum of 10 years.

Not only this but when resin bound stone is considered in light of all of its benefits and longevity, the product is still a better choice. It will cost around the same amount as block paving, tarmac or concrete but it has the added advantage that it uses natural aggregates which therefore never fades and if properly installed, will have at least double the life expectancy than alternate options – to put this into perspective, resin bound stone will keep its colour for its lifetime whereas block paving and tarmac keep their fresh look for between 1-2 years.

For an approximate costing, please contact our office on 01458 252381 to speak with a member of staff. Provided you are aware of the size and the current surface, they will be able to discuss your requirements and give you an idea of the costs involved.

Resin bound/bonded surfaces are considered to be anti-slip. Often, to increase these anti-slip properties, crushed glass of different fine aggregates are casted over the finished surface before it is fully cured to give the surface a grip similar to sandpaper. In areas of high traffic, where this may be wearing away at a faster rate, it can be easily reapplied if necessary.

Resin bound stone remains the number one in terms of slip resistance hence why it is extensively used by highways agencies and in large communal areas.

In 2017, Advanced Resin Solutions commissioned independent testing to be undertaken on a resin bound surface applied to our standard specifications. Using a Munro Instruments portable skid resistance tester, 89100, the slip resistance of the surface was tested under wet conditions and the outcome was a slip resistance range of 52 – 63 under wet conditions; this is considered to be within the top half of the low risk category for the potential of slipping (a score of 65+ is extremely low).

It is always best to allow as long as possible to ensure optimum results however the surface should be allowed around 12 hours of curing time prior to foot traffic and approximately 24 hours for vehicles.

That being said, the above time frames are a guideline and it is always best to check with the Project Manager as there are a variety of factors that can influence curing times, including adding a catalyst to speed up the curing process if project time restraints demand it.

Resin bound paving is SUDs compliant and therefore, planning permission is not required when building or extending a driveway and laying the resin bound stone onto a suitable permeable base.

Tarmac is the ideal base for resin bound stone to be laid on top of. If you already have an existing tarmac driveway, it could save you a significant amount of money when looking to invest in this type of project. It is best to arrange a site visit with a surveyor for them to assess the quality of the tarmac in place to ensure that it is suitable for its purpose.

Resin driveways can be jet-washed but, generally, do not require it. We advise all of our clients looking to do this to err on the side of caution. The best way to clean resin bound stone is initially to clean it using a standard household detergent with a thick bristled brush. Doing this on a fairly regular basis should negate the need to use a jet wash.

Yes. One of the main benefits of resin driveways is that they are porous and therefore SUDs compliant. It allows the excess water to filter through it and therefore leads to a more effective water drainage system.

Resin bound stone is normally laid onto an open grade tarmac base with an MOT sub-base in order to ensure permeability.

Resin bonded stone is the result of spreading a thin layer of resin onto a non-permeable surface which is then dressed with natural aggregate. Due to the installation method, it is a non-permeable surface overall.

Polyurethane resin binders cure through exothermic chemical reactions that are influenced by a number of factors such as, outside temperature, surface temperature and humidity. The curing process can sometimes be sped up using different catalysts. In normal circumstances, we would allow the resin to cure over a minimum of a 12 hour period before using it however, in special cases we can accelerate curing to as little as 4 hours before foot traffic is a possibility.

It is always best to make enquiries with the contractor due to variations in curing times that can be influenced by a number of factors.

There are many ways to care for a resin bound stone driveway. We provide all of our clients with a maintenance guide which can be viewed by clicking here.

The industry recommended thickness for resin bound stone is classified as being at least three times thicker than the largest grade of stone. In most cases, the largest grade of stone used would be 5mm and therefore making 15mm an appropriate depth. That said, Advanced Resin Solutions complete all installations at a depth of 18mm minimum.

To overlay an existing base, resin bound stone costs an average of £50 per square metre (net) however this varies dependent on the size of the area.

The price can vary based on the preparation and finish required. For standard brushed concrete, you can expect to pay an average of £60-90 per square metre however, for imprinted concrete the price could be up to £130 per square metre.

Epoxy resin floors are renowned for their durability. It is arguably one of the strongest surfaces for its purpose, rivalled only by polished concrete.

The cost for this type of solution varies dependent on a variety of factors but could be as little as £20 per square metre for a coating and going up to around £150 per square metre for a metallic floor.

Block paving is a popular choice for a driveway solution. It is relatively cheap with prices averaging at £45 per square metre however, requires regular sealing to prevent the colour from fading. Not only this, but block paving is prone to weeds which are notoriously difficult to get rid of.

A common misconception is that block paving has a tendency to sink. This is certainly not the case. If the base is prepared to a suitable and adequate standard, the paving itself should not move.

The cost of a driveway can vary a lot depending on the size of the area and the preparatory works required.

Resin bound paving, if laid onto an existing base is in the average region of £50 per square metre. If a full excavation, waste disposal, type one sub-base and tarmac base are required, this can increase that average cost to around £100/£120 per square metre in addition to any edging, steps and walls.

Block paving is in the region of £45 and imprinted concrete can be anywhere between £25 – £130 depending on the amount of preparation required, the thickness and the model.

Tarmac prices seem to vary greatly as this is very much dependent on the type of material as well as the depth and size required.

Read more about resin driveway cost.

This question is fairly open-ended as the cheapest surfacing options depend on the base and the style required by the client.

On grass surfaces, the cheapest options would be a grass mat or alternatively, ground reinforcing tiles for a strong, grassy look. On an MOT base, a geotextile membrane and pea shingle may be the most cost effective.

Tired looking tarmac and concrete bases can be dressed with resin bound or bonded stone. This option is not only one of the cheapest but also negates the requirement for groundwork.

Both surfaces are used successfully within the driveway industry. Concrete is made up of aggregate, sand, cement and water to provide its smooth appearance whereas tarmac is made using crushed rock and sand bound together with a binder i.e. bitumen.

In terms of longevity, tarmac tends to have the shorter lifespan of between 10 and 20 years when compared with concrete’s ability to last in excess of 40.

It is recommended to dress both tarmac and concrete with resin bound stone to keep the surface protected and looking presentable.

As with anything in the building sector, the options are endless when it comes to materials that can be used for the installation of driveways and all come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

We specialise exclusively in the installation of resin bound stone paving as we believe that not only is it eco-friendly, hard-wearing, stylish and good value for money that by using natural aggregates, we ensure that the look remains unaffected by weathering. With a colour range of over 20 mixes, we can find a colour to compliment any property.

To clean and seal a block paved driveway, the cost would be in the region of £9 – £15 per square metre.

Resin bound paving can also be sealed using a two part polyurethane sealer if required. The price for this is around £10 per square metre. This is not something that we do often as it is mainly required for commercial projects where additional anti-slip aggregates are required or needs to be reinstated.