Resin bound
Dry aggregate is mixed with the resin before application, then the mixture is trowelled into an even surface. When installed as a suitable complete permeable system, rainwater can pass through it.
The finished look tends to be uniform and compact. That is the resin option modelled in our driveway cost calculator.
Resin bonded
Resin is spread on a prepared substrate and aggregate is scattered on top. It creates a more textured, gravel-like appearance with extra surface grip.
The bonded finish is normally not permeable, so surface water drainage must be addressed separately.
How the differences affect a driveway
| Question | Resin bound | Resin bonded |
|---|---|---|
| How laid? | Stone mixed into resin | Stone broadcast onto resin |
| Surface feel | Smoother, even aggregate | More pronounced stone texture |
| Permeability | Can be permeable as a complete system | Typically impermeable |
| Most important check | Base and drainage design | Grip, stone retention and surface runoff |
Permeability is about the whole build-up
Resin-bound surfacing is not a shortcut around site drainage design. If the base below prevents water from soaking away, a porous top layer alone does not solve the problem. For England front gardens, see our planning-permission guide.
What does each system cost?
The UK average examples cited on this site are for resin-bound driveway installations: around £2,800 for 20m², £6,000 for 50m² and £10,000 for 100m². Those figures should not be presented as the price of a resin-bonded job, because preparation, products and suitability may differ.
Ask for the full product specification, sub-base details, drainage approach and a written warranty. Then use our resin-bound cost estimate as an independent budgeting reference.
Common questions
Are resin bound and resin bonded the same?
No. Bound aggregate is mixed with resin and trowelled, while bonded aggregate is scattered over a resin-coated substrate.
Which resin system does the calculator price?
Our resin choice represents resin-bound installation, not resin-bonded surfacing.
Sources and important notes
Published 29 October 2026. The figures are broad UK examples for ordinary installations; they are not fixed contractor prices and do not account for every site condition.