Resin-bonded versus resin-bound
The names sound alike, but the two are built differently. In a resin-bonded surface, a thin layer of resin is spread over a solid base and loose stone is scattered on top, so the stones stick to the resin but are only partly coated. It gives a rougher, gravel-like texture with good grip. Because the resin forms a continuous layer, resin-bonded surfaces are generally not permeable. Resin-bound, where stones are mixed into the resin and trowelled, is the porous option.
Drainage and planning for bonded surfaces
As resin-bonded is usually impermeable, rainwater runs off rather than soaking in. On a front garden in England, an impermeable surface over 5 square metres that doesn't drain to a permeable area needs planning permission. You can often avoid that by directing water to a lawn, a border, a soakaway or a drainage channel on your land. Check the Planning Portal and your council, and ask installers to show on a sketch where the water will go.
Where it works well
Resin-bonded finishes suit sloping drives, ramps, steps and paths where grip matters, and they are sometimes used for decorative borders and rural driveways where a gravel look fits in. They must go onto a sound, bound base such as tarmac or concrete in good condition. Some loose stone will come away at first, which is normal and can be swept up. Over time, worn patches can usually be recoated with fresh resin and stone.
Jobs we can find a resin installer for
- Resin-bonded driveways and paths
- Grippy finishes for slopes and ramps
- Gravel-look surfaces without loose stones
- Natural and coloured aggregates
- Recoating worn bonded surfaces
Get a quote for resin-bonded gravel surfaces
Available across Kent
Other services
Resin-bound driveways · Resin-bound patios and paths · Resin over existing tarmac or concrete · Resin repairs, cleaning and recoating · Commercial and communal resin surfacing