What Really Affects The Resin Driveway Cost
One of the first things people ask us is: “How much does a resin driveway cost?” The honest answer is – it depends. We know that’s not always what homeowners want to hear, but it’s the truth.
The cost of a resin driveway in Stockport varies depending on the size, prep work, resin type, and aggregate choice. Two jobs might look similar at first glance, but differ massively in price once you account for what’s happening under the surface. In this post, we’ll explain the real factors that affect cost and give you examples from recent jobs so you know what to expect.
The main factors affecting resin driveway cost
1. Size of the area
The bigger the driveway, the higher the overall cost – but cost per square metre usually drops with size.
2. Preparation work
This is the big one. If we can overlay resin on a sound tarmac base, the job is cheaper. If we need to excavate and rebuild the sub-base, it costs more.
3. Aggregate choice
Decorative stone blends vary in price. Premium mixes, like marble or quartz flecks, push the cost up compared to standard aggregates.
4. Resin type
UV-stable resin is more expensive than non-UV, but it’s the only option we recommend. It prevents colour fade, especially on greys and lighter tones.
5. Access and logistics
Tight driveways in terraced streets (think parts of Heaton Chapel) take longer to set up than wide-open plots in Bramhall. That time adds to labour costs.
Typical price ranges in Stockport
While we don’t like throwing out generic figures, here’s a ballpark idea of resin driveway cost:
- Overlay on existing base: from £50–£70 per m²
- Full dig-out and install: from £80–£120 per m²
So, a small 30m² driveway overlay might start from £1,800, while a full 70m² dig-out and resin install could be closer to £7,000–£8,000.
A recent example: Hazel Grove
We installed a new resin driveway in Hazel Grove for a semi-detached home. The old concrete drive was cracked and uneven, so we had to excavate, lay a new MOT Type 1 base, and add a tarmac binder before applying the resin.
- Driveway size: 55m²
- Aggregate: Mid-grey with silver fleck
- Resin: UV-stable system
- Total cost: Just under £5,500
The client originally thought they’d only need an overlay, but we explained why a dig-out was essential. It added cost upfront, but saved them from the risk of cracks appearing in a couple of years.
Another example: Bramhall overlay
In Bramhall, a homeowner had a relatively new tarmac driveway in good condition. We were able to carry out a straight overlay with resin.
- Driveway size: 40m²
- Aggregate: Golden quartz blend
- Prep needed: Minimal
- Total cost: Around £2,500
This shows how much difference the base makes to the overall resin driveway cost. Same finish, but less prep equals a lower price.
Why cheap quotes can cost more long term
We’ve seen resin driveway quotes advertised as low as £35 per m². It sounds tempting, but here’s the catch:
- Often, non-UV resin is used, leading to yellowing.
- Sub-base prep is rushed or skipped.
- Edging and proper mixing equipment aren’t included.
We’ve been called out to Reddish and Offerton to rip up failed drives laid by “bargain” companies. Homeowners ended up paying twice – once for the cheap job and again for us to put it right.
FAQs about resin driveway cost
Q: Is resin cheaper than block paving?
Upfront, they’re often similar. Over time, resin tends to be cheaper because it needs less maintenance.
Q: Does colour choice affect cost?
Yes. Standard blends are more affordable. Premium stones and bespoke mixes raise the price.
Q: Will it add value to my home?
In most cases, yes. Kerb appeal matters when selling, and resin driveways look modern and clean.
Q: Do you charge for quotes?
No, all our site surveys and quotes across Stockport are free.
Final thoughts
The truth is, resin driveway cost isn’t about one fixed figure – it’s about the specific site, the prep required, and the finish you choose. A well-installed resin driveway should last decades, so it’s worth paying for quality rather than chasing the cheapest number.
We’re upfront with costs and happy to explain exactly what’s included so there are no surprises. If you’re weighing up options, we can show you real driveways we’ve installed around Stockport, along with what they cost, so you get a realistic idea.
Thinking about adding value to your home? Let’s talk resin driveways.