Resin vs block paving vs tarmac driveways

If you are replacing a driveway, the three options most people compare are resin bound, block paving and tarmac. Each can work well when it is laid properly on a good base. This guide sets out the main differences in plain terms. We lay resin, so we have tried to be fair to the other two.

Appearance

• Resin bound: a smooth, seamless natural stone finish in a wide choice of colours and blends.
• Block paving: individual blocks in patterns such as herringbone, with borders and colour bands possible.
• Tarmac: usually black, with a plain, practical look. Coloured options exist.

Drainage and planning

Government guidance on front gardens says you do not need planning permission for a new or replacement driveway of any size if it uses permeable (porous) surfacing, or if rainwater is directed to a lawn or border to drain naturally. Covering more than 5 square metres of front garden with an impermeable surface that drains onto the road does need planning permission. The government guidance gives examples of permeable surfaces, including gravel, permeable concrete block paving and porous asphalt.

• Resin bound is porous, so it is permeable on a permeable base. Over solid tarmac or concrete, drainage must be planned.
• Block paving can be permeable if a permeable block system and base are used. Standard block paving is not designed to drain through.
• Tarmac is usually impermeable, unless a porous asphalt is specified.

Upkeep

• Resin bound: regular sweeping and an occasional wash. No joints for weeds to root in, but dirt and seeds on top should be swept off.
• Block paving: joints can collect weeds and moss and may need re-sanding over time. Individual blocks can be lifted and relaid if needed.
• Tarmac: low upkeep. Can soften slightly in hot weather and may show marks from tyres or stands.

Repairs

Block paving is the easiest to patch, as blocks can be lifted and replaced. Tarmac and resin can both be patched, but matching an older surface exactly is not always possible. See resin repairs.

Overlaying an existing drive

Resin bound can often be laid over a sound tarmac or concrete drive without full excavation. Block paving and new tarmac normally need the old surface taken out and a suitable base laid. See driveway resurfacing.

Which should you choose?

If you want a smooth, stone finish and permeability, resin bound is a strong option. If you want a patterned look or easy block-by-block repairs, block paving may suit you better. If you want a plain, practical surface, tarmac is worth considering. Whichever you choose, the base and drainage matter more than the top layer.

For what affects the price of a resin drive, see our cost guide.

Common questions

Is block paving permeable?

Only if a permeable block paving system and base are used. Standard block paving on a sand bed is not designed to let water drain through.

Can resin be laid over tarmac?

Often, if the tarmac is sound, firm and well drained. If it is breaking up, it needs replacing first.

Which driveway surface needs the least upkeep?

All three need some care. Resin and tarmac have no joints for weeds, while block paving joints can need weeding and re-sanding.

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Areas we cover

Bromley | Orpington | Beckenham | Chislehurst | West Wickham | Hayes, Bromley | Petts Wood | Biggin Hill