Resin Driveway vs Block Paving, Tarmac & Concrete

Quick Comparison at a Glance

Resin Bound vs Block Paving

Block paving has been the UK's most popular premium driveway surface for decades, and resin bound is now its main competitor. Both are premium-priced options — here's how they compare:

Cost

Block paving costs £50–£100/m² depending on the block type (concrete, clay, or natural stone). Resin bound sits at £55–£85/m². The costs are broadly comparable, though block paving with natural stone can exceed resin's price significantly.

Maintenance

This is where resin bound has a clear advantage. Block paving joints harbour weeds, moss and ant colonies — requiring regular treatment. Joints need periodic re-sanding and eventually re-pointing. Individual blocks can sink or become uneven over time as the jointing sand washes out. Resin bound requires only an annual jet wash.

Drainage and Planning

Block paving can be permeable if laid with open joints filled with permeable jointing material — but this is often not specified or becomes blocked with debris over time. Resin bound is consistently permeable. This makes resin the more straightforward choice for complying with the 2008 drainage rules on front driveways.

Appearance

Block paving offers a traditional, classic look that many homeowners prefer, particularly for period properties. Resin bound is more contemporary and smoother — it tends to suit modern homes and those seeking a distinctive, premium finish.

Resin Bound vs Tarmac

Tarmac (asphalt) remains the most affordable hard driveway surface, and is often the choice for those purely focused on cost. However:

• Appearance: Tarmac is functional but not attractive — it's a plain black surface with no design options. Resin offers hundreds of colour and finish choices.
• Planning: Tarmac is not permeable — planning permission is typically required for new tarmac front driveways over 5m².
• Longevity: Tarmac softens in hot weather, can be damaged by fuel spills, and typically needs resurfacing every 10–15 years. Resin bound lasts 15–25+ years.
• Cost long-term: The lower upfront cost of tarmac (£25–£50/m²) is offset by resurfacing costs and higher maintenance over time. Resin often wins on total cost of ownership.

Resin Bound vs Concrete

Concrete is durable and long-lasting but carries significant disadvantages for UK residential driveways:

• Cracking: Concrete is rigid and prone to cracking as the ground beneath moves. Cracks are difficult and expensive to repair invisibly. Resin is slightly flexible and far more crack-resistant.
• Staining: Concrete is highly susceptible to oil, tyre rubber, and tannin staining — and stains are very difficult to remove from a light concrete surface.
• Planning: Concrete is not permeable and subject to the same planning rules as tarmac.
• Appearance: Plain concrete is utilitarian. Exposed aggregate or pattern-imprinted concrete options exist but add cost and still lack the design flexibility of resin.

Resin Bound vs Gravel

Gravel is the cheapest loose driveway option (£15–£35/m²) but comes with well-known frustrations: it scatters onto pavements and into flowerbeds, creates noise and difficulty underfoot, and requires regular raking and topping up. Resin bound delivers the natural stone appearance of gravel without any of these issues — stones are locked in place, the surface is smooth and stable, and maintenance is minimal.

Our Verdict

For most UK homeowners prioritising kerb appeal, low maintenance and long-term value, resin bound is the best all-round driveway surface available today. The only scenario where we'd suggest considering alternatives is if budget is the primary concern (tarmac) or if a very traditional aesthetic is strongly preferred (natural stone block paving).