Resin bound surfacing has become one of the most requested driveway options for homeowners across Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire. It’s smart, hard-wearing and, importantly, permeable. Here’s what you need to know before choosing one.
What is resin bound surfacing?
Resin bound surfacing is a mix of natural aggregate (small stones) and clear resin, trowelled by hand onto a prepared base to create a smooth, seamless finish. It’s different from resin bonded surfacing, where loose stone is scattered onto a layer of resin. Resin bound is permeable and doesn’t shed loose stones.
The benefits
- Permeable: water drains through the surface, reducing puddles and surface water run-off.
- No loose gravel: unlike a gravel drive, there are no stones to be kicked onto lawns or into the house.
- Low maintenance: occasional sweeping and a jet wash are usually all it needs.
- Wide choice of finishes: a range of aggregate colours to suit modern and traditional homes.
- Accessible: the smooth surface is good for wheelchairs, pushchairs and wheelie bins.
Do you need planning permission?
In England, if you’re surfacing more than five square metres of a front garden, planning permission is usually needed unless the surface is permeable or water drains to a lawn or border within your property. Because resin bound surfacing is permeable when laid on a suitable base, it usually avoids the need for permission. Always check with your local council if you’re unsure, especially for listed buildings or conservation areas.
Why the base matters
Resin bound surfacing needs a stable, permeable base, usually open-graded tarmac or concrete over a well-compacted sub-base. A poor base can lead to cracking or drainage problems, so it’s the part of the job not to cut corners on.
Is resin right for you?
Resin bound is a great choice for driveways, paths and patios. For very heavy vehicles or commercial car parks, tarmac or block paving may be more suitable. We’ll recommend the right surface for how the area will be used.
Driveways and paths in Staffordshire and Cheshire
Biba’s Landscapes installs resin bound, tarmac and block paved surfaces as part of our hard landscaping services in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and across Cheshire. We can also tidy up borders and lawns with soft landscaping. Contact us for a free quote.
