Resin Driveway Costs UK 2025: Installation Prices Per m²

How Much Does a Resin Driveway Cost in 2025?

Resin driveways have become increasingly popular in the UK due to their attractive appearance, durability, and low maintenance requirements. The cost of installing a resin driveway depends on several factors, including the type of resin system, the size of your driveway, and your location.

£55 - £120 per m²

Average Resin Driveway Cost in 2025

This price range covers both resin bound and resin bonded systems and includes materials and professional installation. For a standard 50m² driveway, you can expect to pay between £2,750 and £6,000 in total.

Last updated: March 2025

The cost varies significantly based on several key factors:

Type of resin system: Resin bound systems (£70-£120/m²) typically cost more than resin bonded systems (£55-£85/m²)
Driveway size: Larger projects may benefit from economies of scale, with lower costs per square meter
Ground preparation: Existing surface condition and any required excavation or base work
Design complexity: Patterns, multiple colors, or borders increase costs
Resin quality: UV-stable resins cost more but prevent yellowing
Geographic location: Prices in London and the Southeast are typically 15-20% higher than the national average

Resin Driveway Cost Calculator

Driveway Size (m²)

Resin Type

Ground Preparation Needed

Resin Driveway Cost Summary 2025

Based on March 2025 data across the UK, resin driveway installation costs range between £55 and £120 per square meter. For an average 50m² driveway, expect to pay:

Resin bound driveway: £3,500 - £6,000 (£70-£120/m²)
Resin bonded driveway: £2,750 - £4,250 (£55-£85/m²)
Additional costs: Excavation (£15-25/m²), edging (£20-40/linear meter), drainage solutions (£300-£1,000)

Prices vary by location, with London and the Southeast typically costing 15-20% more than the national average. If you're considering alternatives, check our guides on block paving costs, tarmac driveway prices, or concrete driveway installation.

Resin Driveway Types & Installation Prices

There are two main types of resin driveway systems: resin bound and resin bonded. Each has its own characteristics, advantages, and price points.

Resin Bound Driveways

£70 - £120 per m²

Resin bound systems mix the aggregate and resin together before application, creating a smooth, permeable surface.

✓ Fully permeable (SuDS compliant)
✓ Smooth, seamless finish
✓ 20-25 year lifespan
✓ More resistant to cracking
✓ No planning permission required
✓ Wide range of color options
✓ Low maintenance requirements

Resin Bonded Driveways

£55 - £85 per m²

Resin bonded systems scatter aggregate over a layer of resin, creating a textured, non-permeable surface.

✓ Not permeable (drainage solutions required)
✓ Textured, gravelly finish
✓ 8-15 year lifespan
✓ More affordable option
✓ Planning permission may be required
✓ Good grip in wet conditions
✓ Quicker installation process

Standard Resin Driveway

£55 - £85 per m²

✓ Basic color options
✓ Standard aggregate size
✓ Base preparation
✓ Single color design
✓ Basic edging

Premium Resin Driveway

£85 - £100 per m²

✓ UV-stable resin
✓ Multiple aggregate sizes
✓ Complex base preparation
✓ Two-color blends
✓ Premium edging/borders

Luxury Resin Driveway

£100 - £120+ per m²

✓ Premium UV-stable resin
✓ Custom aggregate blends
✓ Full excavation & drainage
✓ Complex patterns/designs
✓ Decorative borders/features

Resin Driveway Gallery

Browse these examples of resin driveways to get inspiration for your own project. Different colors, patterns, and finishes can completely transform the look of your property.

Modern resin bound driveway in warm amber color

Resin bound driveway in warm amber tones

Contemporary home with grey resin driveway

Contemporary grey resin driveway with modern home design

Resin driveway with decorative border design

Close-up detail of resin bound surface texture

Large resin driveway with natural stone look

Expansive resin driveway with natural stone appearance

Curved resin driveway design with landscaping

Resin Driveway Installation Process

Understanding the installation process helps you know what to expect when investing in a resin driveway. A professional resin driveway installation typically follows these steps:

Site Assessment & Preparation

The installer will assess your existing driveway and determine if it's suitable for a resin overlay or if full excavation is needed. This typically includes checking drainage requirements, measuring the area, and identifying any problem areas that need addressing.

Excavation & Base Installation

If required, the existing surface is excavated to a depth of 150-300mm. A sub-base of MOT Type 1 aggregate (crushed stone) is then installed and compacted to provide a stable foundation. For resin bound systems, a porous base may be used to facilitate drainage.

Edging Installation

Edging materials (like block paving, concrete or metal edging) are installed to contain the resin surface and provide a clean finish. This step is crucial for the longevity and appearance of your resin driveway.

Primer Application

A primer is applied to the base to ensure proper adhesion of the resin surface. This is particularly important when applying resin over existing concrete or tarmac surfaces.

Resin Application

For resin bound systems, the aggregate and resin are thoroughly mixed in a forced action mixer before being applied and troweled to a smooth finish. For resin bonded systems, resin is applied to the surface first, then aggregate is scattered over the top.

Curing & Finishing

The resin needs time to cure properly - typically 24-48 hours before foot traffic and 3-7 days before vehicle use, depending on weather conditions. Any excess aggregate is removed from bonded systems, and a final inspection ensures quality.

Resin Driveway Installation Timeframe

Most resin driveway installations take 2-5 days to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Weather conditions can affect this timeline, as resin installation requires dry conditions and temperatures above 5°C.

Resin Driveways vs Other Popular Options

When choosing a driveway material, it's important to understand how resin compares to other popular options in terms of cost, appearance, and performance.

Comparison	Winner	Key Difference
Resin Driveway vs Block Paving	Resin for appearance and maintenance	Resin driveways offer a seamless finish with no weed growth between joints
Resin Driveway vs Concrete	Resin for aesthetics and permeability	Resin bound surfaces are SuDS compliant while concrete requires drainage solutions
Resin Driveway vs Tarmac	Resin for appearance, Tarmac for cost	Resin driveways cost 20-40% more but offer superior aesthetics and longevity
Resin Driveway vs Gravel	Resin for stability, Gravel for cost	Resin prevents stone displacement and provides a stable surface, while gravel is more affordable
Resin Bound vs Resin Bonded	Bound for longevity, Bonded for cost	Bound systems allow water drainage and last longer, while bonded systems are more affordable

Pros & Cons of Resin Driveways

Before investing in a resin driveway, it's important to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages to ensure it's the right choice for your property.

Advantages of Resin Driveways

Aesthetically pleasing with a wide range of colors and finishes available
Durable and long-lasting - can last 15-25 years with proper installation and maintenance
Low maintenance - requires only occasional cleaning and minimal upkeep
Permeable options available (resin bound) that comply with SuDS regulations
Weed resistant with minimal opportunities for plant growth
Quick installation compared to other driveway options
Resistant to oil stains and other automotive fluids
No planning permission required for permeable resin bound driveways
Frost resistant and less prone to cracking than concrete
Non-slip surface even in wet conditions

Disadvantages of Resin Driveways

Higher cost compared to gravel or some concrete options
Requires professional installation - not suitable for DIY resin driveway projects
Some resins can yellow over time if not UV-stable
Resin bonded surfaces are not permeable and may require drainage solutions
Potential for cracking if the base preparation is inadequate
Oil stains can be difficult to remove if not treated promptly
Moss or algae growth possible in shaded areas
Cannot be installed in wet conditions or very low temperatures
Heavy vehicles or point loads can damage the surface
Repairs can be visible and difficult to match perfectly

Resin Driveway Cost Comparison

Resin driveways are just one of several options available for your property. Here's how resin driveway costs compare to other popular driveway materials in terms of price, durability, and maintenance:

Block Paving

£60 - £100 per m²

Block paving offers versatility in design with various patterns and colors. It's durable, long-lasting, and relatively easy to repair individual blocks. However, it requires more maintenance than resin as weeds can grow between blocks, and it may sink or shift over time.

Tarmac / Asphalt

£45 - £75 per m²

Tarmac driveways are cost-effective, quick to install, and durable. They require minimal maintenance but offer limited design options and can soften in extreme heat. They may also crack over time and require resurfacing every 15-20 years.

Pattern Imprinted Concrete

£70 - £110 per m²

Pattern imprinted concrete offers a decorative finish with various patterns and colors. It's durable and low maintenance but can crack over time and requires resealing every 2-5 years. Repairs can be visible and difficult to match with the original.

Gravel

£20 - £50 per m²

Gravel driveways are the most affordable option and provide excellent drainage. They're easy to install but require regular maintenance to top up gravel and control weeds. They can also be messy with stones being displaced onto lawns or paths.

Natural Stone

£90 - £150 per m²

Natural stone driveways offer superior aesthetics and extremely long lifespans (50+ years). They're highly durable but are the most expensive option and require professional installation. They may also need occasional repointing of joints.

Permeable Paving Grids

£30 - £60 per m²

Permeable paving grids offer an eco-friendly option that allows grass or gravel to grow through plastic or concrete grids. They provide excellent drainage but may not support heavy vehicles and require regular maintenance of the growing medium.

Driveway Type	Average Cost/m²	Lifespan	Maintenance Level	Planning Permission
Resin Bound	£70 - £120	20-25 years	Low	Not required (permeable)
Resin Bonded	£55 - £85	8-15 years	Low-Medium	May be required
Block Paving	£60 - £100	20+ years	Medium	May be required
Tarmac/Asphalt	£45 - £75	15-20 years	Low	May be required
Pattern Imprinted Concrete	£70 - £110	15-20 years	Medium	May be required
Gravel	£20 - £50	5-10 years	High	Not required (permeable)
Natural Stone	£90 - £150	50+ years	Low-Medium	May be required

Regional Resin Driveway Price Factors

Weather conditions, local regulations, and material availability can affect resin driveway installations in different parts of the UK. Here are some regional considerations to keep in mind:

In London and the Southeast, resin driveway costs tend to be 15-20% higher than the national average, with prices typically ranging from £80-£120/m². The higher population density and property values in this region mean homeowners often choose premium resin bound options with complex designs and premium aggregate blends. Planning regulations are also stricter in many London boroughs, making permeable resin bound systems particularly popular.

In Northern England, resin driveway prices are typically 10-15% lower than the national average, ranging from £60-£95/m². The colder climate means installation during winter months is often avoided, with most work scheduled between March and October. Frost-resistant aggregates and UV-stable resins are particularly important in this region to withstand the harsher winter conditions.

In Scotland, resin driveway installations face additional challenges due to the colder, wetter climate. Prices range from £60-£100/m² depending on location. The installation season is shorter, typically April to September, when conditions are most favorable. Drainage solutions are particularly important, and many homeowners opt for resin bound systems with additional anti-freeze additives to withstand the harsh winter conditions.

The higher rainfall in Wales and the West Country makes drainage particularly important for resin driveway installations. Resin bound systems are popular due to their permeability, and prices typically range from £55-£95/m². Local stone aggregates are often used in these regions, which can reduce transportation costs and provide a more natural appearance that complements the rural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Resin Driveways

Here are answers to the most common questions about resin driveways to help you make an informed decision.

In 2025, the average cost of a resin driveway in the UK ranges from £55 to £120 per square meter. For a standard 50m² driveway, this equates to £2,750-£6,000 total. Prices vary based on the type of resin system (bound vs. bonded), depth of installation, design complexity, and your location within the UK.

Resin bound driveways mix the aggregate and resin together before application, creating a smooth, porous surface that allows water drainage. Resin bonded systems scatter aggregate over a resin layer, creating a textured, non-porous surface. Bound systems are more expensive (£70-£120/m²) but offer better longevity and drainage, while bonded systems are more affordable (£55-£85/m²) but less durable.

A properly installed resin driveway can last 15-25 years. Resin bound systems typically last 20-25 years with proper maintenance, while resin bonded surfaces generally last 8-15 years. Factors affecting longevity include installation quality, level of use, climate conditions, and maintenance frequency.

Resin bound driveways are permeable and SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) compliant, allowing rainwater to drain through to the ground below. This eliminates the need for planning permission for front driveways in most cases. Resin bonded driveways are not permeable and may require additional drainage solutions to meet regulations.

Resin driveways require minimal maintenance. Regular sweeping to remove debris, occasional pressure washing (at low settings), and removing weeds or moss if they appear are the main requirements. A resealing treatment every 3-5 years is recommended for resin bound surfaces to maintain optimal condition and appearance.

DIY installation is not recommended for resin driveways. Professional installation ensures proper mixing of materials, correct depth, appropriate base preparation, and suitable curing conditions. Improper installation can lead to cracking, uneven surfaces, drainage issues, and significantly reduced lifespan.

Standard resins can yellow over time due to UV exposure. However, UV-stable resins are available (at a higher cost) that resist fading and yellowing. The aggregate color remains mostly unchanged, but some natural weathering and minor darkening may occur over the years. Regular cleaning helps maintain the original appearance.

Yes, resin surfaces can be installed over existing concrete or tarmac if they're in good condition with no major cracks or subsidence. This overlay method reduces costs as it eliminates excavation work. However, the existing surface must be structurally sound, have adequate drainage, and be properly prepared and primed before resin application.

Curing times vary based on weather conditions and resin type. Typically, you can walk on the surface after 24-48 hours. Vehicle use is generally permitted after 3-7 days. Full curing takes up to 7 days in summer and possibly longer in colder conditions. Your installer will provide specific guidance based on your installation.

Resin driveways offer extensive color options through the wide variety of available aggregates, from natural stone tones to more vibrant options. Common choices include various shades of gold, silver, red, black, white, and blended mixes. Finishes can be customized by using different aggregate sizes, with smaller aggregates creating smoother finishes and larger ones creating more textured surfaces.

Resin Driveway Prices Across UK Towns & Cities

Average resin driveway prices vary across different regions of the UK. Here's a breakdown of typical costs per square meter for resin bound driveways in popular UK towns and cities as of March 2025.

London & Southeast

London £85 - £120/m²

Reading £80 - £110/m²

Brighton £80 - £115/m²

Canterbury £75 - £105/m²

Oxford £80 - £110/m²

Guildford £80 - £110/m²

Southampton £75 - £105/m²

Portsmouth £75 - £100/m²

Southwest England

Bristol £75 - £105/m²

Exeter £70 - £100/m²

Plymouth £65 - £95/m²

Bath £75 - £105/m²

Bournemouth £70 - £100/m²

Cheltenham £70 - £100/m²

Swindon £70 - £95/m²

Taunton £65 - £95/m²

Midlands

Birmingham £70 - £100/m²

Nottingham £65 - £95/m²

Leicester £65 - £95/m²

Coventry £65 - £95/m²

Derby £60 - £90/m²

Worcester £65 - £95/m²

Wolverhampton £60 - £90/m²

Stoke-on-Trent £60 - £90/m²

North of England

Manchester £65 - £95/m²

Liverpool £65 - £95/m²

Leeds £65 - £95/m²

Sheffield £60 - £90/m²

Newcastle £60 - £90/m²

York £65 - £95/m²

Preston £60 - £90/m²

Durham £60 - £90/m²

Scotland

Edinburgh £70 - £100/m²

Glasgow £65 - £95/m²

Aberdeen £65 - £95/m²

Dundee £60 - £90/m²

Inverness £60 - £90/m²

Perth £60 - £90/m²

Stirling £60 - £90/m²

Falkirk £60 - £85/m²

Wales

Cardiff £65 - £95/m²

Swansea £60 - £90/m²

Newport £60 - £90/m²

Wrexham £55 - £85/m²

Bangor £55 - £85/m²

Aberystwyth £55 - £85/m²

Northern Ireland

Belfast £65 - £95/m²

Derry £60 - £90/m²

Lisburn £60 - £90/m²

Newry £55 - £85/m²

Resin Driveway Price Guide UK 2025