Resin Bound Driveways vs Traditional Block Paving

Are you looking to upgrade your driveway but feeling overwhelmed by all of your options? One of the most common debates among homeowners is resin bound driveways vs traditional block paving. Whilst both are very popular, there are some distinct differences that set these two surfacing solutions apart.

A widespread misconception is that resin driveways are significantly more expensive but that’s not necessarily true. In fact, resin bound surfacing is often comparable in cost and may even offer better long-term value.

In this guide, we compare both options to help you decide on the best surface for your home.

Cost Comparison: Resin Bound vs Block Paving

When it comes to cost, resin bound and traditional block paving are similarly priced. However, resin bound driveways offer more consistent pricing, whereas block paving prices can vary significantly due to the cost of materials like cut stone.

The table below provides a clear comparison of average prices per square metre for both traditional block paving options and resin bound surfacing, helping you choose the most suitable solution for your budget and needs. Please be aware that we have taken an average cost of block paving, the cost can vary further depending on the material, your area and the installation.

Category	Type / Size	Average Price (per m²)
Traditional Block Paving	Paving Blocks	£50 – £75
	Premium Concrete Blocks	£80 – £100
	Clay Block Paving	£90 – £120
	Natural Stone (e.g., granite)	£100 – £150+
Resin Bound Surfacing	20m² Surface	£70 – £100
	50m² Surface	£80 – £95
	100m² Surface	£70 – £90

Long-Term Value

Resin bound driveways, with their low maintenance and guarantees of up to 20-years, provide better value for money in the long term when compared with traditional block paving.
Block paving often incurs additional costs post-installation for resealing, potential sinking, and weed control which isn’t factored into the sale price.

Drainage

One major benefit of resin bound surfacing is that it’s SUDS compliant. This means it’s permeable, allowing water to drain naturally, reducing puddles, runoff, and staining. This makes resin bound surfaces ideal for not only driveways but also patios, balconies, pathways, and pool surrounds.

In contrast, block paving can struggle with drainage and typically requires resealing every few years. It is also more prone to weed growth between the joints and surface movement over time, making it a higher-maintenance option compared to resin bound driveways.

Maintenance

When choosing a surface for driveways, patios, or walkways, long-term maintenance is a key consideration. Both traditional block paving and resin bound surfacing have their merits, but they differ significantly in the type and frequency of upkeep required.

Traditional Block Paving Maintenance

Weed Growth: The gaps between the individual blocks are prone to weed and moss growth, especially if not regularly treated with weed killer or re-sanded.

Surface Movement: Over time, individual blocks can shift or settle unevenly, leading to an uneven surface that may require lifting and relaying.

Staining: Oil, dirt, and algae can stain the surface, and because blocks are often porous, these stains may require pressure washing and even replacement of specific blocks.

Joint Sand Replacement: The kiln-dried sand between the joints can be eroded over time and needs to be periodically topped up to maintain surface stability and appearance.

Resin Bound Surfacing Maintenance

Weed and Moss Resistance: Thanks to its continuous surface and strong bonding, it’s highly resistant to weed growth, though not entirely immune if organic material is allowed to settle on the surface. Removing organic debris with a firm-bristle brush will prevent unwanted growth.

Easy Cleaning: As resin bound surfacing is non-porous it resists staining, and most dirt can be removed with occasional sweeping and gentle power washing.

No Jointing or Shifting: Unlike block paving, resin bound systems don’t have joints, so there’s no risk of surface displacement or need for re-levelling.

UV Stability: At Oltco, we use premium UV stable resin in our resin bound mixture, this prevents discolouration and eliminates the need for recoating.

Safety & Slip Resistance

For families or anyone with mobility concerns, resin bound driveways are a clear winner. They offer a naturally anti-slip surface, even on steep inclines, and contain no loose gravel or chippings, making them safe and stable underfoot in all weather conditions.

Block paving can become uneven over time, creating trip hazards and requiring more frequent maintenance to stay safe. Depending on your chosen paving, they can also become incredibly slippery when wet.

Weed Control

Weeds love the gaps between block paving slabs. Unless properly maintained (often with chemicals or pressure washing), they can quickly take over and become a persistent issue. Weed growth can also cause additional cracking and damage to block paving.

Resin bound driveways create a smooth, sealed surface, making weed growth minimal and maintenance super easy. Using a firm bristle brush to remove dirt and debris from the surface is often enough to manage weed and moss growth.

Aesthetic Options

If you’re looking for a driveway that enhances your home’s curb appeal, resin bound surfacing stands out for its superior aesthetics. It offers a wide range of colour options and natural stone blends to match your property’s style, along with bespoke finishes that can include decorative borders, patterns, or even custom logos. These UV-stable surfaces are designed to resist fading, ensuring they maintain their vibrant appearance over time.

While traditional block paving does provide some design flexibility, its colours tend to fade more quickly, and the combination of uneven wear and weed growth can significantly diminish its visual appeal.

Installation Time

Resin bound driveways can often be installed within a single day, depending on the size of the area and the condition of the existing surface. Although, you will need to allow it to cure for 24 hours for foot traffic and 48 hours for vehicle traffic (dependent on weather conditions).

In contrast, block paving is a more labour-intensive process that involves ground preparation, individually laying each block, and then sand filling and compacting the surface. As a result, block paving typically takes longer to complete and causes more disruption to your property during installation.