Resin driveways are a type of driveway that can be made from resin and aggregate. The driveway will be bound together to create a strong surface. There are two ways to do this: resin bonded and resin-bound.
The main difference between the two finishes is how the aggregate is bound to the resin. For resin bonded driveways, the aggregate is sprinkled over the wet resin, which is then left to cure. Alternatively, in resin-bound driveways, the aggregate and resin are mixed together before being laid.
Generally speaking, the type of bonding that you choose for your resin driveway won’t influence the cost. There are several other significant factors that are more likely to impact the overall cost of your new resin driveway.
Factors influencing resin driveway cost
Depending on your needs and preferences, there are various costs to consider when installing a resin driveway. The size of your drive, the type of aggregate used and the surface finish you choose will all have an impact on the final cost.
The price of a small, basic resin driveway (roughly 20 square metres) can start from as little as £3,000. At the other end of the spectrum, a high-end resin driveway (around 100 square metres), with a more intricate design, can cost upwards of £15,000.
To get a better understanding of how much your new resin driveway might cost, here are some of the main influencers on the cost of a resin driveway:
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Driveway Size
The size of your driveway will likely be the single biggest factor when it comes to cost. A larger driveway will, of course, require more material and labour than a smaller one.
Therefore, it’s important to measure the square footage of the area to ensure you receive an accurate quote from your chosen driveway installer. You can calculate this by multiplying the length by the width to get the total square footage.
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Surface Finish
There are three main types of surface finish for resin driveways: smooth, anti-skid and slip-resistant. The smooth finish is the most popular and gives the driveway a sleek, modern look. However, it’s also the most slippery when wet, so if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain, you may want to opt for an anti-skid or slip-resistant finish instead. These types of finishes are more expensive than a smooth finish, but they offer better safety and traction.
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Type of Aggregate
The type of aggregate you choose for your resin driveway will also affect the cost. There are many different types of aggregate available, from gravel and sand to recycled glass and shells. They offer alternative aesthetic appeals and textures.
Gravel is the most common type of aggregate used in resin driveways because it’s the most affordable. However, if you want a more unique look for your driveway, you may want to opt for something like recycled glass or shells, which can be significantly more expensive.
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Installation Method
There are two ways to install a resin driveway: self-installation and professional installation. If you choose to self-install, you’ll need to purchase the materials and rent the necessary equipment. This option is much cheaper than hiring a professional, but it’s also more time-consuming and labour-intensive.
If you decide to go with a professional installer, they will handle all aspects of the installation, from start to finish. This includes delivering the materials, preparing the area and laying the driveway. Professional installation is more expensive than self-installation, but it’s also less hassle and will likely result in a higher quality finish.
Additional Costs to Consider
In addition to the costs mentioned above, there are a few other things you’ll need to factor into the overall cost of your new resin driveway. These include:
Sub-base Preparation: If your driveway is going to be installed on an existing concrete or asphalt base, you won’t need to worry about this cost. However, if the area is currently grass or soil, you’ll need to factor in the cost of preparing the sub-base. This usually involves excavating the area and installing a layer of compacted hardcore.
Drainage: It’s important to ensure that your new driveway has proper drainage to avoid pooling water. If you already have a drainage system in place, you likely won’t need to worry about this cost. However, if you don’t have one, you’ll need to factor in the cost of installing a drainage system, which can be significant.
Edging: A common way to finish the edges of a resin driveway is with concrete edging stones. This gives the driveway a clean, finished look. The cost of edging will depend on the material you choose and the size of your driveway.
Get a quote to calculate the cost of your resin driveway.
As you can see, there are many different factors that can affect the cost of a resin driveway. To get an accurate estimate of how much your new driveway will cost, be sure to consult with trusted contractors to compare prices.
If you’re looking for somewhere to start, consider accessing a quote from Thortec. As one of the UK’s leading installers of resin driveways and other surfacing solutions, you are bound to find the service you’re looking for.
Shirley Mist has been involved in fashion and design for many years. She has also written extensively for many online publications. She currently writes for The Tribune World and is a valued member of our team.