What is the difference between resin bound and resin bonded?

Resin bound (the most common) involves mixing the aggregate and resin together before laying, creating a smooth, permeable surface. Resin bonded involves spreading resin on a surface and 'scattering' stone on top, which is non-permeable and has a rougher texture.

How thick should a resin driveway be?

For a domestic driveway used by cars, the standard depth is 18mm. For pedestrian footpaths or garden paths, 15mm is usually sufficient.

Is a resin driveway SuDS compliant?

Yes, resin bound paving is naturally permeable, allowing water to drain through it. However, it only remains SuDS compliant if the sub-base (the layers underneath) is also permeable, such as open-graded tarmac or MOT Type 3.

What is UV-stable resin and why is it important?

UV-stable (Aliphatic) resin does not change color when exposed to sunlight. Non-UV stable (Aromatic) resin will turn yellow or brown over time, which can ruin the aesthetic of light-colored aggregates.

What is the difference between resin bound and resin bonded?

Resin bound (the most common) involves mixing the aggregate and resin together before laying, creating a smooth, permeable surface. Resin bonded involves spreading resin on a surface and 'scattering' stone on top, which is non-permeable and has a rougher texture.

How thick should a resin driveway be?

For a domestic driveway used by cars, the standard depth is 18mm. For pedestrian footpaths or garden paths, 15mm is usually sufficient.

Is a resin driveway SuDS compliant?

Yes, resin bound paving is naturally permeable, allowing water to drain through it. However, it only remains SuDS compliant if the sub-base (the layers underneath) is also permeable, such as open-graded tarmac or MOT Type 3.

What is UV-stable resin and why is it important?

UV-stable (Aliphatic) resin does not change color when exposed to sunlight. Non-UV stable (Aromatic) resin will turn yellow or brown over time, which can ruin the aesthetic of light-colored aggregates.

Resin Bound Calculator

Estimate aggregate bags and resin kits for a premium finish.

Total Area (m²)

Installation Depth (mm)

Include Anti-Slip Crushed Glass/Sand

Material Summary

Sub-base Rule: Resin bound paving is permeable (SuDS compliant), but only if laid on a permeable sub-base like **Open Graded Tarmac** or **MOT Type 3**.

Resin Bound Mastery: The Modern Driveway

Seamless & Permeable

Resin bound surfacing has become the gold standard for UK driveways, offering a seamless, weed-resistant finish that looks premium and manages surface water effectively.

Our **resin driveway calculator** uses the industry-standard 100kg aggregate to 7.5kg resin ratio, helping you plan your material takeoff with precision.

Installation Specs

Standard Depth18mm

Resin TypeUV-Stable (Aliphatic)

Mix Ratio100kg : 7.5kg

SuDS & Planning

Because resin bound paving is porous, it typically does not require planning permission under **Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)** rules, provided it is laid on a permeable base. This makes it an ideal solution for large front gardens where water runoff into the street is prohibited.

The Mix Process

Resin must be mixed using a specialized forced-action mixer. A standard cement mixer is not sufficient as it cannot blend the resin and aggregate thoroughly enough to ensure a structural bond.

Anti-Slip Crushed Glass

While beautiful, resin can be slippery when wet or icy. Always scatter fine crushed glass or sand over the wet surface during installation to provide essential grip for tires and pedestrians.

Pro Tip: Base Preparation

Resin is only a surface finish. It has no structural strength of its own. It **must** be laid on a solid, stable base—usually existing tarmac or concrete that is in good condition, or a new sub-base of open-graded tarmac.

Resin Driveway FAQ

Technical Disclaimer

Installation of resin bound paving requires specialized equipment and timing (pot life). This calculator is for material estimation only. Always follow the specific manufacturer's instructions for mixing ratios and cure times.