What’s the Best Material for Driveway Resurfacing?
Driveway resurfacing is one of the most effective ways to refresh your home’s exterior, but with so many driveway surface options available, deciding on the best driveway material can be a challenge. From traditional tarmac and concrete to resin-bound, each choice comes with different costs, levels of durability, and visual appeal.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular driveway resurfacing options and show you why resin driveways are fast becoming the preferred solution for homeowners who want a stylish, long-lasting finish.
Why Resurface Your Driveway?
Over time, even the best driveway material will begin to show signs of wear. Constant exposure to weather, vehicle traffic, and natural erosion can cause your driveway to become cracked, faded, or uneven. Driveway resurfacing is an effective way to restore both function and style, providing a smooth, safe surface that instantly enhances kerb appeal and property value.
With the right driveway surface option, you can strike the perfect balance between cost, durability, and visual appeal, whether you’re prioritising affordability, long-lasting strength, or a modern, high-end finish.
Driveway Surface Options Compared
When it comes to driveway resurfacing, there are several popular materials to consider. Each option varies in terms of cost, durability, appearance, and upkeep. Below, we compare the most common driveway surface options to help you decide which is right for your home.
Tarmac (Asphalt)
● Cost: One of the most budget-friendly driveway resurfacing options.
● Durability: Hardwearing, but prone to cracks and softening in extreme heat or cold.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Limited to black with few decorative options.
● Maintenance: Needs occasional resurfacing and is vulnerable to oil damage.
Tarmac is a straightforward, quick-to-install solution if you’re prioritising affordability. However, its lack of design versatility and higher long-term maintenance needs make it less appealing for homeowners seeking a modern, stylish finish.
Concrete
● Cost: Moderate upfront investment.
● Durability: Long-lasting but prone to cracks from temperature changes.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Can be coloured or patterned, but is still limited compared with resin.
● Maintenance: Repairs are difficult and can be disruptive.
Concrete is valued for its strength and clean appearance, but over time, cracks, stains, and costly repairs can reduce its practicality as a driveway surface.
Gravel
● Cost: The cheapest driveway resurfacing material.
● Durability: Stones easily shift, leading to uneven surfaces.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Rustic, natural look, but not always suitable for modern properties.
● Maintenance: Frequent raking, topping up, and weed control required.
Gravel is inexpensive and quick to install, making it attractive for rural or budget-conscious projects. However, its lack of stability and high maintenance demands limit its long-term value in busy households.
Block Paving
● Cost: Higher upfront outlay compared with tarmac or gravel.
● Durability: Can last for decades if installed well, but is prone to sinking and weed growth.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Wide variety of colours, shapes, and patterns for a bespoke look.
● Maintenance: Needs regular cleaning and weed control treatment.
Block paving is an elegant choice with strong design flexibility. While attractive, it does demand consistent maintenance to preserve its appearance and prevent weeds or movement between blocks.
Resin Bound Driveways: The Premium Choice
● Cost: Higher initial investment (£80–£120 per m²), but excellent long-term value.
● Durability: Exceptionally strong, flexible, and resistant to cracking.
● Aesthetic Appeal: Wide choice of colours, finishes, and bespoke designs
● Maintenance: Minimal, just sweeping and the occasional power wash.
A resin driveway is created by blending natural aggregates with a UV-stable resin and hand-trowelling the mixture onto a prepared base. The result is a seamless surface that is:
● Fully permeable and SUDS-compliant (no drainage issues).
● Minimises weed growth, cracks, and loose stones.
● Anti-slip for added safety in wet or icy conditions.
● Designed to last 20+ years with very little upkeep.
Resin-bound driveways are widely considered the best driveway material because they combine strength, style, and sustainability. They offer a premium finish that enhances kerb appeal while reducing long-term resurfacing costs.
Driveway Resurfacing Cost
The driveway resurfacing cost depends on the material you choose, as well as the size and condition of your existing driveway.
- Gravel: £30–£60 per m² (cheapest option, but high maintenance).
- Tarmac: £50–£70 per m² (affordable but shorter lifespan).
- Concrete: £70–£90 per m² (durable but prone to cracking).
- Block Paving: £80–£100 per m² (stylish but weed-prone).
- Resin Bound: £80–£120 per m² (premium finish with excellent longevity).
While resin-bound driveways may have a slightly higher upfront cost, their long lifespan, minimal maintenance, and stunning appearance make them a far more cost-effective option in the long run.
Which Driveway Material is Best for You?
Every driveway resurfacing project is unique, and the best driveway material for you depends on budget, design goals, and practical needs. Here’s a quick guide:
- Tarmac – Fast and affordable, but limited in style.
- Concrete – Strong and long-lasting, but prone to cracking.
- Gravel – Low upfront cost, but high maintenance.
- Block Paving – Stylish and versatile, but requires frequent upkeep
- Resin Bound – Premium finish, long-lasting durability, low maintenance, and eco-friendly drainage
| Feature | Tarmac | Concrete | Gravel | Block Paving | Resin Bound |
| Upfront Cost | £ | ££ | £ | £££ | £££ |
| Durability | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | moderate | High (cracks) | high | moderate-high | Very low |
| Design Options | Limited | Limited | Natural | Wide | Unlimited |
| Eco-Friendly/ Permeable | ⤫ | ⤫ | ✔ | ⤫ | ✔ |
Resin-bound outperforms other driveway surface options by combining strength, style, and sustainability into one solution.
Transform Your Driveway with Oltco
At Oltco, we’re committed to offering more than just a new surface; we provide driveways designed to last. Our resin-bound systems deliver durability, drainage, and design flexibility, making them the smart long-term investment.
With the added reassurance of up to a 20-year warranty, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your driveway is built to perform as beautifully as it looks.
Get in touch with Oltco today for your free consultation and discover why resin is the best material for driveway resurfacing.