Which Surfaces Can a Resin Driveway Be Laid On?

Concrete is widely considered one of the best surfaces for installing a resin driveway. Its stability allows the resin to bond effectively, while its strength minimises the risk of shifting that could lead to cracks or imperfections in the resin over time.

With that said, the condition of the concrete has a big impact on the success of the installation. Concrete with major cracks, uneven areas, or structural weaknesses can compromise the resin layer, leading to costly repairs or even reinstallation.

It’s important to address any issues with the concrete before applying the resin. This may include filling cracks, levelling uneven sections, or replacing weak areas with a sturdier base that aligns with the rest of the surface. Most driveway installation companies will handle these preparations for you as part of their service.

Tarmac (or asphalt) is another excellent candidate for a resin driveway base. One of its standout features is its slightly porous nature, which boosts the permeability of resin-bound driveways. This allows water to drain efficiently, reducing surface water and preventing puddles, especially when paired with a dedicated drainage system.

Just like with concrete, the tarmac base needs to be in good condition to make sure the resin performs at its best. If the tarmac is worn, crumbling, or showing structural weaknesses, it may require repair or replacement before the resin can be applied.

To fix any problems with the tarmac, your installer might patch damaged areas, level uneven spots, or, in more severe cases, replace the entire base.

You can install a resin driveway over existing paving, but only if the paving is stable, secure, and in good condition to act as a reliable base. Uneven or loose paving stones need to be fixed first, as they can cause issues like cracking, sinking, or an uneven resin surface after installation.

If the old paving shows signs of instability, such as movement, large gaps, or general wear and tear, it’s usually best to remove it entirely. A professional installer can assess your existing paving and advise whether it’s suitable or if a new base is needed.

Resin can be laid directly over blockwork, so long as both the blocks and the substrate underneath are in good condition.

Stable, securely placed blocks provide a reliable base for the resin, but any damaged or uneven blocks must be fixed beforehand. This could involve replacing broken blocks, securing loose ones, or levelling the surface to remove any gaps or irregularities.

If the blockwork is heavily worn or unstable, it’s usually best to remove it entirely and install a new, solid foundation. A professional installer can assess the condition of your blockwork and recommend whether repairs will suffice or if a full replacement is necessary for the best results.

Gravel is generally not a suitable base for a resin driveway. Resin surfaces need a stable, solid foundation, and the loose shifting nature of gravel can cause problems like cracking or sinking, leading to repairs or early replacement. The gravel usually needs to be removed and replaced with a more stable sub-base before the resin is installed.

At Jurassic Home Solutions, we know that a strong, long-lasting driveway starts with the right foundation. When you choose us for your resin driveway, our experienced team will assess your property to check if your existing surface is suitable. If any preparation is needed, we’ll handle it to the highest standard, before installing a new resin driveway in the colour of your choice from our three stylish collections:

• Classic
• Modern
• Timeless

By combining expert craftsmanship and premium-quality resin, we’ll deliver a flawless finish that stands the test of time. Just look at our previous work to see for yourself!

Ready to elevate your driveway? Book a free survey online or call us on 0330 0435166 and take the first step today!