Last updated on February 10th, 2025
How much does a resin bound driveway cost in 2025?
This cost guide was written in partnership with our professional estimators here at Checkatrade. Our estimators are Chartered Members (MRICS) of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Members of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB).
Fast Facts
- The average cost of a medium-sized resin bound driveway in 2025 is £6,000
- This works out at around £120 per m²
- The cost of your resin bound driveway will depend on the size and shape of your driveway, the size and quality of aggregate you select, the groundwork needed, any decorative edging chosen, and labour costs
Resin bound driveways have become a popular choice with UK homeowners. They look smart and attractive but they’re also low-maintenance and long-lasting.
However, as with all major home improvements, one of the biggest considerations is cost. So how much does a resin bound driveway cost in 2025?
We explain how to calculate the cost of a resin bound driveway, based on the surface size, type of aggregate, typical extras, and installation costs.
In a hurry?
No problem. Use our cost calculator to get a ballpark quote for the cost of a resin driveway at your home.
Enter the size (m2):
Choose material
Additional services
Your new driveway could cost approximately:
Working with professional estimators, we collate cost estimates for the common home improvement and repair jobs in the UK. All the costs are estimates only and for accurate costs for your particular requirements, you are encouraged to reach out to professional tradespeople to receive a quote for your job. Read our disclaimer for more information.
What is the average cost of a resin bound driveway in the UK?
| Driveway size | Material cost per m² | Labour cost per m² | Total cost | Hourly rate (£) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small, single car, 20m² | £70 | £70 | £2,800 | |
| Medium, two cars, 50m² | £70 | £50 | £6,000 | |
| Large, multiple cars, 100m² | £70 | £30 | £10,000 | |
| Labour cost | £30 |
Last updated: December 2024
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
The total average cost of a resin bound driveway typically ranges from £2,800 to £10,000 depending on the size of your driveway, the materials you choose, and the scope of the job.
- A 20m² driveway (for a single car) will cost around £2,800
- A 50m² driveway (for two cars) will cost around £6,000
- A 100m² driveway (for multiple cars) will cost around £10,000
Resin driveway costs per m²
If you know the size of your drive and are keen to compare the cost of a resin driveway vs block paving, for example, here’s a handy table to help you crunch the numbers.
| Driveway material | Material cost per m² | Installation cost per m² | Total cost per m² |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarmac | £50 | £40 | £90 |
| Block paving | £50 | £50 | £100 |
| Resin bound | £70 | £50 | £120 |
| Concrete | £50 | £45 | £95 |
| Gravel | £30 | £30 | £60 |
Last updated: December 2024
Average driveway costs (materials and labour):
- £120 per m² for resin-bound
- £100 per m² for block paving
- £95 per m² for concrete
- £90 per m² for tarmac
- £60 per m² for gravel
What affects resin bound driveway costs?
When calculating the cost of a resin bound driveway, several key factors can influence the overall price you’re quoted:
- Driveway size and shape: Larger or irregularly-shaped areas need more materials and labour time, however you’ll often benefit from bulk buying, therefore material costs per m² can reduce as the driveway size increases
- Preparation and groundwork: If your current driveway needs levelling, repairs, a new sub-base, or excavation, this will add to your overall costs
- Aggregate quality and size: High-quality, or specially coloured aggregates can cost more, but you’ll get a smoother finish. Larger aggregate stones require three times their size in depth to be excavated before they’re laid, which will add to your labour costs
- Resin: UV-stable resin (that resists fading in sunlight) typically costs more than non-UV-stable options
- Decorative edging: Resin bound paving needs to be laid up to a stable edge, e.g. a wall or brick edging. If there currently isn’t one, it’ll need to be created, at an extra cost
Resin driveway installation cost
Installing a resin driveway involves a number of stages to achieve a durable and even surface:
1. Preparation and groundwork: Clearing and levelling the area and potentially laying a new sub-base. A larger aggregate stone requires deeper excavation, which increases time and therefore labour costs.
2. Mixing resin and aggregate: Combining your chosen resin with your chosen aggregate stones.
3. Laying and curing: The resin mix must be laid at 20 metres per hour to make sure it goes down properly – this is due to the curing time for resin.
On average, expect to pay around £50 per m² for installation.
Resin driveway installation time and cost
With this in mind, labour costs for installing a resin driveway will vary depending on the scope of your particular project.
As a guide, expect to pay around £30 per hour depending on your location and the experience of your installer.
Get resin bound driveway quotes
For an accurate quote for your resin bound driveway, contact an approved installer with Checkatrade.
Professional installation by an experienced specialist will ensure your new resin driveway looks great upon completion and long into the future.
Enter your postcode to see who comes highly rated in your area.
Choosing between UV-stable and non-UV resin options
- A UV-stable resin driveway resists colour change from sunlight, therefore it won’t fade over time
- A non-UV-stable resin driveway is prone to discolouration, but is typically cheaper than UV-stable resin
Colour change
The colour change in your resin driveway may not be a huge deal if it’s even. However, if you place a wheelie bin, a plant pot, or even a box of rubbish outside for a while on your non-UV-stable resin bound driveway, you’ll find that spot marked as the area around the items gets discoloured.
Durability
Non-UV-stable resins are quite hard and strong. However, this can mean they’re brittle and more prone to cracking. On the other hand, UV-stable resins are not as hard, but their flexibility means you won’t get cracks on your driveway.
The key to a good finish lies in using a good sub-base material, so make sure to use a professional tradesperson who can properly assess your existing ground and cater to your requirements.
Price
The cost to install a UV-stable resin bound driveway is higher than a non-UV-stable option – it’s almost twice as expensive.
- If you’re not concerned about discolouration and have a more modest budget, a non-UV-stable resin driveway could be the best choice for you
- However, if your budget can stretch to it, UV-stable resin bound driveways often give better results and look like new for longer
Resin bound driveway cost calculator
Creating a rough estimate of the cost of your resin bound driveway is easier when you have the right information.
Price up the average cost of your resin bound driveway using our cost calculator, below.
Enter the size (m2):
Choose material
Additional services
Your new driveway could cost approximately:
Working with professional estimators, we collate cost estimates for the common home improvement and repair jobs in the UK. All the costs are estimates only and for accurate costs for your particular requirements, you are encouraged to reach out to professional tradespeople to receive a quote for your job. Read our disclaimer for more information.
Find an approved resin bound driveway installer near you
There are no official regulations surrounding the installation of resin bound driveways. As a result, the quality of materials and installation can vary.
Use a trusted directory such as Checkatrade to find quality trades that have passed up to 12 checks to gain our seal of approval.
Search for approved resin driveway contractors in your area, view their credentials, see examples of previous installations, and read customer reviews, all in one handy place. Simply enter your postcode below to get started.
FAQs
Are resin bound driveways slippery?
A resin bound driveway may look very smooth and even shiny, but it shouldn’t be slippery once the initial film of resin has worn from the top. The aggregate used should contain materials such as glass or translucent sand, which have anti-slip properties.
Can resin driveways be installed on slopes?
Yes, resin bound driveways can be installed on sloping surfaces. Your installer will assess the gradient and ensure the ground is properly prepared to ensure your new driveway is durable and long-lasting.
Is resin bound gravel permeable?
Resin bound gravel surfaces are permeable, which means that it allows water to drain through. When laid, minuscule voids are created between the resin-coated aggregate materials, which makes the surface porous. One of the key benefits of a resin bound surface is that it is Sustainable Drainage System (SUDS) compliant.
How long will a resin bound driveway last?
With proper installation and maintenance, a resin bound driveway is expected to last between 15-20 years.
Can I install a resin bound driveway on an existing surface?
As long as the existing surface is in good condition, it is possible to lay a resin driveway over your current driveway. On some occasions, groundwork is needed to ensure a stable base.
What’s the difference between resin bonded and resin bound driveways?
Resin bound surfaces mix resin with aggregate, creating a smooth, permeable finish that is trowelled into place.
For resin bonded driveways, resin is applied first, with aggregate scattered on top. This creates a rougher finish that is not permeable.
Is a resin driveway cheaper than block paving?
Generally speaking, resin driveways are cheaper per m² than block paving. In the long run, resin bound driveways tend to work out as more cost-effective as they last longer and typically require less ongoing maintenance.
How can I maintain my resin bound driveway?
Resin bound driveways maintenance is minimal. Regularly sweeping the driveway to remove leaves and debris will help to prevent moss growth.
Remove any spills immediately so they don’t dry into the surface. However, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes.
If using a pressure washer, use a fan nozzle in a sweeping motion. Keep the water cool-warm (not hot) and on a low-pressure setting.
How long does a resin bound driveway take to cure?
When working with resin, the surface must not be exposed to rain or water until it has set. If the surface does come into contact with water it can make the final finish appear cloudy or foamy, so it is best to plan your resin bound driveway for the summer months.
Resin bound driveways can be walked on after around 24 hours and driven on by smaller vehicles after 72 hours allowing them to cure and harden fully. Driving on a freshly laid resin driveway after less than 72 hours, especially in winter, can pull up the aggregate and ruin the driveway.
What are the environmental benefits of a resin bound driveway?
Resin bound driveways are considered an eco-friendly choice. They use natural stone (aggregates) and their porous nature allows water drainage, reducing the risk of flooding and water pollution.
Working with professional estimators, we collate cost estimates for the common home improvement and repair jobs in the UK.
All the costs are estimates only. For accurate costs for your particular requirements, you are encouraged to reach out to professional tradespeople to receive a quote for your job.
Our estimators are Chartered Members (MRICS) of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Members of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB). See full disclaimer.
Ian Crawford
Clear and concise insights into the key issues and features of a resin-bound driveway for those of us without a prior understanding.