Resin-bound
A smooth, seamless surface made from natural aggregate mixed with clear resin and trowelled flat. It has a modern, clean look and comes in a wide range of colour blends, with borders and inlays possible.
- Good for: a contemporary finish, low upkeep and permeable drainage
- Weeds: very few, because there are no joints for seeds to settle in
- Upkeep: an occasional sweep and gentle wash
- Drainage: permeable when laid on a suitable porous base, which helps meet the planning rules for front gardens
- Worth knowing: resin is sensitive to weather while it cures, so the laying day depends on temperature, humidity and rain
Block paving
Individual concrete or clay blocks laid in a pattern on a compacted sub-base, with sand-filled joints. A classic look that suits almost any house, in many colours, sizes and patterns.
- Good for: heavy use, a traditional look and patterns or borders
- Weeds: joints can collect dirt and seeds, so some weeding or re-sanding over time is normal
- Upkeep: sweeping, the odd weed and a clean every few years
- Repairs: the easiest of the three. Individual blocks can be lifted and relaid, for example to reach a pipe or replace a stained block.
- Drainage: standard blocks need the water directed to a soakaway or permeable area; permeable block systems are also available
Tarmac
A hot-laid asphalt surface, rolled smooth. A practical, hard-wearing finish, often with block or brick edging for a neater look.
- Good for: large areas, long drives and a practical, no-fuss finish
- Weeds: few, if laid thick enough on a well-compacted base with proper edging
- Upkeep: minimal, though it can soften slightly in very hot weather and dislikes fuel or oil spills
- Repairs: patch repairs are possible but may show
- Drainage: usually needs falls to a drain or soakaway; porous tarmac is an option
Side by side
- Smoothest, most modern look: resin-bound
- Easiest to repair in small sections: block paving
- Most practical for big areas: tarmac
- Fewest weeds: resin-bound
- Most design options: resin-bound and block paving
What matters more than the surface
Most driveway problems, like sinking, dips, puddles and cracks, come from what’s underneath, not the surface on top. Whichever finish you choose, the ground needs digging out to the right depth, a properly compacted sub-base, firm edges and falls planned so water drains away from the house.
That groundwork is where a cheap quote usually cuts corners. When you compare quotes, ask each installer how deep they’ll dig, what sub-base they’ll use and where the water will go.
Still not sure?
We lay all three, so we’ve no reason to push one over another. At the free home visit we’ll look at your house, the size and shape of the area and how you use it, and talk you through the options with photos of jobs we’ve done nearby.