Resin and block paving are two of the most popular choices for new driveways in Guildford and across Surrey. Both can look excellent and last for many years when they're installed properly, but they're built differently, behave differently and suit different homes. This guide compares the two so you can decide which is right for your property.
What is a resin driveway?
There are two types of resin surface, and it's important to know the difference:
- Resin bound: natural aggregate is mixed with clear resin and trowelled smooth over a suitable base. The finish is smooth, there are no loose stones, and the surface is porous, so water drains through it.
- Resin bonded: resin is spread on the base and loose aggregate is scattered on top. The result has a textured, gravel-like feel, but it is not permeable, and loose stones can come away over time.
When people talk about resin driveways today, they usually mean resin bound. A resin bound surface is only as good as what's under it. It needs a stable, porous base, typically open-graded asphalt or porous concrete laid on a well-compacted sub-base. It's not a quick cover-up for a cracked old drive.
What is block paving?
Block paving uses individual concrete or clay blocks laid in a pattern on a bed of sand over a compacted sub-base, with edge restraints to hold everything in place. Joints are filled with kiln-dried sand. Standard block paving sheds water off the surface, so it needs falls and drainage. Permeable block paving has wider joints filled with grit, allowing water to soak through into a specially designed sub-base.
Appearance
Resin bound gives a smooth, seamless, modern finish with a wide choice of aggregate colours and blends. It works well on contemporary homes and can be laid around curves and features with neat edges.
Block paving has a more traditional look, with many colours, sizes and laying patterns such as herringbone and basketweave. Borders and contrasting bands can define parking areas and paths. Clay pavers in particular suit older properties and conservation areas.
Drainage and planning
Drainage is a key practical difference. Since 2008, if you're paving more than five square metres of a front garden in England with an impermeable surface that doesn't drain to a lawn or border, you normally need planning permission. Resin bound on a porous base and permeable block paving are both designed to let water soak away, so they usually avoid this. Standard block paving can comply too if rainwater is directed to a soakaway or planted area.
Our guide to planning permission for a new driveway explains the rules in more detail, including dropped kerbs.
Durability
Both surfaces are durable when built on a properly designed base. The base matters more than the surface. Common problems include:
- Resin: cracking where the base moves or was too thin, and discolouration if a cheaper resin that isn't UV-stable is used. Ask what resin will be used and check it is suitable for outdoor use in daylight.
- Block paving: sinking or rutting where the sub-base wasn't compacted, and blocks spreading where edge restraints are missing or weak.
On clay soils, such as around Cranleigh, a deeper sub-base is often needed for either option.
Maintenance
Resin bound is low maintenance. Regular sweeping and an occasional wash keep it clean. Because there are no joints, weeds struggle to establish, although moss and debris can collect on the surface in shady spots if it isn't swept.
Block paving needs a bit more care. Weeds and moss can grow in the joints, and the jointing sand needs topping up from time to time, especially after jet washing. Sealing can help reduce weeds and staining.
Repairs
This is where block paving has the edge. If a section sinks or is stained, or a utility company needs to dig it up, individual blocks can be lifted and relaid, usually leaving little trace. Repairing resin is harder. Patches are possible, but matching the colour and finish of an older surface is difficult, so repairs are often visible.
What affects the cost?
We don't publish standard prices, because every driveway is different. The main cost factors for both resin and block paving are:
- The size and shape of the area
- How much excavation and sub-base are needed, and the condition of the ground
- Whether an existing surface needs breaking out and removing
- Drainage requirements, such as channel drains or a soakaway
- Your choice of aggregate, block type and laying pattern
- Edging, steps, borders and any dropped kerb work
- Access for machinery and waste removal
A resin surface sometimes needs a new base, but where an existing tarmac or concrete drive is sound and suitable, it may be possible to overlay it. Block paving almost always involves excavating to build a fresh sub-base. The best way to compare is to get a detailed quote for both on your own driveway.
Which should you choose?
- Choose resin bound if you want a smooth, modern, seamless finish, minimal weeding and built-in permeability.
- Choose block paving if you prefer a traditional look, want easy repairs, or expect future work under the drive.
Evergreen Gardeners work across Guildford, Godalming, Woking and Cranleigh, plus the villages in between.
Frequently asked questions
Is resin or block paving more permeable?
Resin bound on a porous base is permeable across its whole surface. Standard block paving is not, but permeable block paving is designed to let water through its joints. Resin bonded surfaces are not permeable.
Can resin be laid over my existing driveway?
Sometimes. If the existing tarmac or concrete is sound, stable and suitable, it may be used as a base. Cracked or sinking surfaces need replacing first, otherwise the problems will show through.
Which lasts longer, resin or block paving?
Both can last many years. Lifespan depends far more on the quality of the base and installation than on the surface you choose.
Do you install both types of driveway?
Yes. We can quote for both on the same visit so you can compare them for your property.
For a free, no-obligation quote, call Evergreen Gardeners on 07383 778366 or send us a message. We'll visit, talk through what you need and give you a clear written price.
