If you’re looking to change up your home driveway, it’s good to know about your options before committing to a particular type of surface. Aesthetics alone is important, but it’s not the be-all and end-all of your choice. Hardiness, longevity and practicality will also play a part. In this guide, we’re looking at the difference between resin bound surfacing and resin bond driveways to help you choose the right one for your home.
As the words are so similar they are easily confused and used interchangeably. However, we’re settling their distinct differences once and for all so you’re not left second-guessing. A new driveway is a big investment after all, and as it’s the facade of your property, you’ll want it looking the part.
Resin Bond Surfacing Explained
Resin Bonded surfacing is where a layer of resin is spread across the sub-surface. Loose stone is then scattered on top and pressed into the layer of resin until it’s completely covered. As the stone is laid on top of the resin, it can come loose.
The layer is non-permeable and is only a single stone layer thick.
Although resin bonded surfaces are cheaper, the resin bound driveway is far more popular in the UK.
Resin Bound Surfacing Explained
The other option is the Resin Bound system where resin and stone are mixed together first. This mixture is then trowelled into place. The solid mixture mainly consists of aggregate, crushed marble and recycled plastic. This is then coated in polyurethane resin. The mixture is laid on an existing firm base (often concrete, tarmac or a grid system).
Resin bound is a popular choice for driveways. Why? Let’s take a look.
- It provides a smooth, hard-wearing top surface.
- The resin bound mixture provides a rainwater permeable layer so puddles don’t form and drainage isn’t a problem.
- Being porous also means you don’t need to apply for planning permission – a time-saving solution.
- The resin covers all the solids, so there’s no chance of anything working loose.
- This surfacing offers plenty of colour varieties to help you find the ideal complement for your house and garden. The colours are often created through the specific mix of gravel and solids.
If you’re looking to have a resin bound driveway installed, contact A&MT Contractors to organise a site survey.
Key differences between resin bound and resin bond
- Different types of resin –
Bear in mind that the resins used for both systems are not the same. Resin bound uses polyurethane resin. This is impact-resistant and can bear heavy loads. - Appearance is suited to different properties –
Resin bond has a loose gravel appearance which is well suited to historical and traditional properties. On the other hand, the completely smooth texture of the resin bound surface is ideal for more contemporary residential properties. - Resin bound is more expensive –
Resin bound is more expensive than resin bond. However, there are plenty of benefits to choosing resin bound which shouldn’t be overlooked for the sake of saving a few pounds. Remember to ask about longevity of the two surfaces and the maintenance required before finalising your choice. - Planning permission –
As resin bound is porous, you don’t need to apply for planning permission. However, with resin bond, you do need to get permission to install your new driveway. This is a key difference between the two. It’s also a big reason why resin bound is often chosen over the resin bond.
In summary – differences between resin bond and resin bound
| Resin Bound | Resin Bond | |
| Planning permission needed? | ✘ | ✓ |
| Rainwater permeable? | ✓ This means water won’t pool on the surface as it’s a naturally-draining material. | ✘ During heavy rain, puddles may collect on the surface. You may need to consider drainage solutions to avoid issues with flooding. |
| Smooth finish? | ✓ Complete resin coverage means no loose gravel and a smooth, attractive finish | ✘ Stone is laid on top of the resin meaning it can come loose. |
| Frost and adverse weather resistant? | ✓ | ✘ |
| Traditional or modern? | Modern | Traditional |
