What resin-bound means
In a resin-bound surface, dried stone is mixed with a clear resin in a mixer and then trowelled flat over a prepared base. Every stone is coated, so the finish is smooth with no loose chippings, and tiny gaps between the stones let rainwater soak through. That makes a properly built resin-bound driveway permeable, which matters for planning and drainage. Installers offer a wide range of stone blends, from buff and golden gravels to greys and darker mixes, so ask to see samples or finished drives before you choose.
The base does most of the work
Resin-bound is a thin wearing layer, so it relies on what sits underneath. For a new driveway, installers usually dig out, lay and compact a granular sub-base, then add a porous binder course such as open-graded tarmac or porous concrete before the resin goes on. If the base underneath isn't permeable, water can't drain through, and the drive won't behave as a permeable surface. Ask each installer to explain what base they propose, how deep it will be and where the water will go.
Planning, drainage and front gardens
In England, paving more than 5 square metres of a front garden with an impermeable surface that doesn't drain to a permeable area needs planning permission. A permeable resin-bound drive on a permeable base, or one that drains to a lawn or border, usually doesn't. This follows sustainable drainage (SuDS) principles, which aim to keep rainwater out of overloaded drains. Rules differ for listed buildings and where an Article 4 direction applies, so check the Planning Portal guidance on paving front gardens and confirm with your council if unsure.
Jobs we can find a resin installer for
- New resin-bound driveways on a fresh base
- Permeable builds following SuDS principles
- Choice of natural stone and colour blends
- UV-stable (aliphatic) resin options
- Edging, borders and drainage channels
- Advice on dropped kerbs and access
Get a quote for resin-bound driveways
Available across Kent
Other services
Resin-bound patios and paths · Resin-bonded gravel surfaces · Resin over existing tarmac or concrete · Resin repairs, cleaning and recoating · Commercial and communal resin surfacing