If you are looking to boost your home’s kerb appeal, a resin driveway is one of the most modern, durable and aesthetically pleasing options available in the UK. But before you dive in, the biggest question is always: “How much does a resin driveway cost per m2?”
The average cost for a resin bound driveway typically ranges from £60 to £120 per m². However, this price can fluctuate significantly based on whether you are overlaying an existing surface or starting from scratch. At A1Driveways, we believe in transparency, which is why we have created this definitive guide to help you budget for your project.
Average Resin Driveway Cost per m² in the UK
The average resin driveway cost per m2 UK typically ranges from £40 to £100 per square metre. Pricing depends mainly on surface condition, materials and installation requirements. Driveways installed over an existing solid base are usually more affordable, while projects requiring full preparation cost more.
Budget installations vs premium finishes
Budget installations involve minimal groundwork and standard materials, making them more cost-effective. Premium finishes include full base preparation, decorative aggregates and UV-stable resin, which increases durability and overall price.
Typical price range by driveway size
Smaller driveways often have a higher price per m² due to setup costs. Medium driveways provide balanced pricing, while larger areas usually benefit from lower cost per square metre but higher total project cost. For larger UK homes, consider Resin Driveways in Huddersfield or Resin Driveways Bradford for local examples.
Resin drive cost factors
Condition of existing surface
If your current driveway is cracked, sinking, or made of loose gravel, it cannot support resin. Fixing these issues or removing the old surface entirely is a significant portion of the project cost. You may also consider alternatives like Tarmac Driveways or Block Paving if your base is uneven.
Sub-base and preparation work
A resin driveway is only as good as what’s underneath. A SuDS-compliant (Sustainable Urban Drainage System) base requires a specific type of compacted stone (MOT Type 3) and permeable asphalt, which costs more than a standard non-permeable base.
Resin type and aggregate quality
UV-stable (aliphatic) resin is more expensive but maintains its colour and does not fade in sunlight. Non-UV (aromatic) resin is more affordable and is typically used with darker stone blends where slight yellowing is less noticeable.
Thickness and durability level
A standard driveway is usually laid at 15mm–18mm thickness. If you have heavy vehicles (like motorhomes or vans), we recommend a 20mm–25mm depth, which increases the material cost.
Installation complexity
Curved edges, steps, manhole covers that need “recessed” lids and intricate color borders all require extra time and craftsmanship, which is reflected in the labour cost.
Resin Bound Driveway Cost per m2 Explained
Material cost breakdown
Materials usually account for about 35-45% of your quote. This includes the two-part resin kits, the bags of kiln-dried aggregate and the sand or glass used for slip resistance.
Labour and installation pricing
Professional installers usually work in teams of 3 or 4. You aren’t just paying for time; you’re paying for the specialized forced-action mixers and the skill required to hand-trowel the resin to a seamless finish before it begins to “set.”
Additional features that increase cost
- Concrete Edging/Kerbs: Necessary to “lock” the resin in place.
- Drainage Channels: Required if the driveway isn’t naturally permeable.
- Recessed Manhole Covers: To ensure the resin pattern is uninterrupted.
How to Reduce Your Resin Driveway Installation Cost
- Smart budgeting tips: Selecting a standard color mix and removing the land of pots and litter may cut down on labor expenses.
- When cheaper alternatives end up costing more down the line: Not using UV-stable resin to cut costs usually results in a driveway that is speckled and has turned yellow, requiring costly replacement.
Is a Resin Driveway Worth the Investment?
Lifespan and maintenance costs
Virtually zero maintenance and a 20+ year lifespan make it a highly cost-effective premium surfacing option.
Property value impact
A professional resin driveway can increase your home’s value by 5–10%, making it a “profitable” home improvement.
What are the Benefits of Resin Driveways?
- Permeability: Water passes directly through, so there are no puddles and no need for planning permission in most instances.
- Low Maintenance: Just a power wash every year will suffice.
- Aesthetics: There are hundreds of colour schemes available to match your house’s brickwork.
- Durability: Resistant to weeds, frost, and UV light (given the right resin).
Why A1driveways
At A1driveways, we don’t cut corners. We use only BBA-approved, UV-stable resins and high-quality aggregates. Our team provides a comprehensive survey to ensure your sub-base is up to the task, preventing the “cracking” issues often seen with cheaper, “cowboy” installations.
Most installations range from £40 to £100 per m² depending on preparation and materials.
Basic installations start around £40 per m², with premium installations exceeding £100 per m².
Yes, due to low maintenance.
Yes, if the base is stable.
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