Only a sound base will do
Laying resin over an existing surface can save the cost and disruption of digging out, but only if that surface is sound. A resin layer will follow any movement underneath, so cracks, sinking, potholes, crumbling edges and loose areas tend to reappear as cracks in the resin. An installer should inspect the base, check it for movement and decide whether it needs repairs, partial replacement or digging out altogether. Be wary of anyone who says any surface will do without looking at it.
Tarmac, concrete and block paving
Older tarmac in good condition is often a suitable base, while very fresh tarmac may need time to cure before resin goes on, so ask the installer. Concrete should be clean, free of oil and without significant cracks, and existing expansion joints may need to be carried through the resin. Block paving is usually not a good base because the individual blocks can move, so it is often lifted first. Mention what you have on the form, with photos if you can.
Permeability over an existing surface
Resin-bound laid over impermeable tarmac or concrete is no longer acting as a permeable system, because the water reaching the old surface has nowhere to go. It drains across the top instead. If the area is a front garden of more than 5 square metres in England, that can affect whether planning permission is needed. Directing water to a border, a lawn or a drainage channel on your property usually solves it. Check the Planning Portal or your council if you're unsure.
Jobs we can find a resin installer for
- Resin overlays on sound tarmac
- Resin overlays on concrete drives and patios
- Base inspections and crack repairs
- Drainage channels and edge details
- Advice on when to dig out instead
Get a quote for resin over existing tarmac or concrete
Available across Kent
Other services
Resin-bound driveways · Resin-bound patios and paths · Resin-bonded gravel surfaces · Resin repairs, cleaning and recoating · Commercial and communal resin surfacing