Is a Resin Gravel Driveway for You?

A Resin Gravel Driveway?

A resin gravel driveway is fast becoming the number one choice of quality for ‘cost savvy’ homeowners. In comparison to other driveway surfacing products resin provides a permeable surface. This means that there is no need for drainage installation, in most instances.

Technologically – this is amazing!!!!– a glue (resin) that allows water through it!

Simplistically, gravel (stone) mixes with resin (glue) and you then have what is commonly known as resin bound (look left.) Alternatively, gravel can be gently thrown into resin and this is known as resin bonded.

Sounds easy huh?

Well, installing a resin drive is….but….you will need specialist tools and with a ‘setting time‘ as little as 10 minutes….you better be quick….or just get the professionals in…..to avoid a sticky situation!

Pardon the pun!

If you’re a competent DIYer and the area is less than 10 square metres (maybe for a tree pit or steps) – give it a go.

Can a Resin Gravel Driveway be overlaid over an Existing Driveway Surface?

Technically, as you’re laying a permeable resin layer, the surface underneath must also be permeable.

Otherwise, there will be a big chance of water sitting under the resin gravel driveway and this will weaken the structure.

However, if a solid concrete base is in place (free of cracks and with water drainage flowing away to bedding) then this may be suitable for a resin gravel driveway overlay.

This also applies to tarmacadam driveway surfaces that are in top condition with drainage.

READ Guide to Drainage

Some questions and answers about resin

CAUTION! Some people think that overlaying concrete blocks is okay….think carefully about this. Block paving may move and if this happens cracks will appear on the new resin surface.

Compare Pattern Imprinted Concrete VS Resin Driveways

So, first things first.

Look at your existing driveway surface. If it’s blocks or tarmacadam it will probably have to be dug up and a new suitable sub base installed.

On the other hand, if it’s clean concrete (with no cracks and with drainage) – there is a high chance that an overlay is possible.

An resin gravel driveway overlay with natural sloping for drainage

Resin Gravel Driveway Cost

If you can complete an overlay and do it yourself this will be the cheapest option. If the driveway area is large you will need to find a reputable resin installer and ensure you inspect their previous jobs (including those that have been down a few years.)

MUST READ: Resin Rip Off Prevention Guide

DIY

Expect to pay around £60 per square metre. This is based on an overlay price for a concrete/tarmacadam base that is in good condition with no edging or extras.

Professional Installation

Expect to pay around the same per square metre as a DIYer but adding in sub base preparation costs (including gravel grids) will take costs closer to £120 per square metre.

A Beautiful Resin Bound Driveway Installation

More on Resin Driveway Costs

Surprisingly, the lifespan of a resin driveway can be pretty long. The key to getting an installation that lasts is the type of resin used and the skill and experience of an installation team.