Paving Estimator

Resin Driveway Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost of your resin bound or bonded driveway. Calculate materials, installation, and ground preparation costs for US and UK projects.

Driveway Details

ft
ft
Resin Bound

Permeable, Smooth

Resin Bonded

Rough, Non-Permeable

Estimate Ready?

Enter area and base condition to see the project cost.

The Complete Resin Driveway Cost Guide (2025)

Resin driveways have exploded in popularity across the UK and US due to their sleek appearance, durability, and low maintenance requirements. Whether you are looking for a permeable Resin Bound system to comply with SUDs regulations or a cost-effective Resin Bonded overlay, understanding the costs involved is the first step.

Our Resin Driveway Cost Calculator is designed to give you a realistic estimate based on your specific requirements. Unlike generic calculators, we account for the existing surface condition—because laying resin on existing concrete is significantly cheaper than digging up a grass lawn to install a new sub-base.

Resin Bound vs. Resin Bonded: What's the Difference?

This is the most common confusion for homeowners. The difference affects both cost and performance.

1. Resin Bound (The Premium Choice)

Aggregate stones are mixed with the clear resin in a forced action mixer and then troweled onto the surface.
Pros: Permeable (water drains through), smooth finish, no loose stones, extremely durable.
Cost: Higher due to material volume and labor skill.

2. Resin Bonded (The Budget Choice)

A layer of resin is spread on the ground, and loose stones are scattered over it (like grit on glue).
Pros: Cheaper, looks like loose gravel but doesn't move as much.
Cons: Non-permeable (needs drainage), stones can come loose over time, rough texture.

Factors Influencing the Price

Factor Impact Explanation
Existing Base High Laying on good concrete is cheap. Excavating grass/soil to lay Type 1 Mot and Open Binder adds massive labor/disposal costs.
UV Stability Medium UV Stable (Aliphatic) resin costs about 50% more than Non-UV (Aromatic), but prevents your driveway from turning yellow/brown.
Area Size High Contractors have fixed daily costs. A tiny path costs more per square meter than a large driveway due to economies of scale.
Edging Low Resin needs a border to butt up against. Installing new block paving edges or aluminum trim adds cost.

US vs. UK Pricing Structures

  • UK: The market is mature. Prices typically range from £50 - £80 per m² for overlay, and £100 - £150 per m² for full excavation.
  • US: Often called "Resin Bound Paving" or "Permeable Paving." It is a premium niche product. Prices range from $10 - $18 per sq ft depending on the depth and aggregate choice.

Installation Process (Full Excavation)

  1. Excavation: Digging out soil to approx 250mm depth.
  2. Geotextile Membrane: Prevents weeds and mixing of soil layers.
  3. Sub-Base: 150mm of Type 1 MOT (crushed stone) compacted.
  4. Binder Course: 70mm of porous concrete or open-textured asphalt (tarmac).
  5. Resin Layer: The final 15mm-18mm layer of stone and resin mix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does resin crack? ▼

Resin itself is flexible, but if the base below it moves or cracks, the resin will reflect that crack. This is why a solid sub-base is critical.

Can I jet wash a resin driveway? ▼

Yes, but be careful. Use a lower pressure setting or a flat surface cleaner attachment. High-pressure lances held too close can damage the matrix.

How long does it last? ▼

A high-quality installation with UV-stable resin can last 15 to 25 years with minimal maintenance.

Transform your curb appeal

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