While it might not be the biggest debate going on today, once the time comes to replace your driveway, you’ll need to make several important decisions.
Narrowing down your driveway paving ideas is something that can be – much like the finished surface should be – hard. That being said, it might not take a great deal of decision-making for some, but we can’t emphasise how important it is to consider all your options and spend time determining the best driveway paving slabs for you.
After all, you’d likely prefer something that is nice to look at, long-lasting, high quality, protective and easy to maintain, right?
Here at DPM we are specialists in making your property look beautiful, both inside and out. When it comes to coming up with your ideal driveway design you want to be 100% sure of your decision. So, considering we offer special services in both resin bound driveways and block paving driveways, we thought it’d be a great idea to help compare the two and give you a little more insight into the benefits of both.
Durability
How long does a resin driveway last? Resin driveways are incredibly durable. It’s hard to say how long they last for exactly, but the resilient and sturdy resin that is mixed with aggregate stone means you are getting a solid 25-30 years out of your investment. They are usually fitted in one application and require very little maintenance (more on that later). If you have good drainage on your driveway, applying resin to the base will enhance its longevity.
How long does a block paving driveway last? It’s difficult to say with absolute certainty but it will be dependant on whether concrete or clay bricks are chosen, as both vary in terms of endurance. Concrete bricks have an expected lifespan of over 20 years and come in a variety of textures but are more likely to fade in colour over time. Clay bricks are tougher, more hardwearing and have an even longer lifespan than this but are typically harder to work with. But on the whole, once laid, they require very little attention and will last for a similar amount of years.
Cost
Resin driveway cost: The overall cost will be influenced by the choice of stone finish attached to the resin; the more expensive the stone, the higher the cost. Also, if there is UV resistant resin in the driveway, this might add a few extra pounds to the bill. As the resin materials need to be mixed and stretched immediately before drying, more than one contractor might be needed to ensure it is being laid continuously. It’s worth considering the state of your driveway before you request the resin, because driveways with degraded, cracked or patched concrete will need to be replaced with a new base to accommodate a new porous base which will cost extra. Existing tarmac in good condition make absolutely fine base materials.
Block paving driveway cost: This is entirely dependent on your area and the demand of your labourer(s). The processes of excavation, edging, laying and alignment will also factor into the overall cost as well as the labour, and sometimes the ground might need a day or two of preparation. The aforementioned brick type will also play a part in the cost; concrete bricks are cheaper than most other stones. If you are using sealant for your driveway, this will be an additional cost to consider.
Colour
Resin driveway colours: This entirely depends how you want your driveway to look, and being that resin is simply glue mixed with this gravel, you have more freedom of choice. As the gravel is fixed in place you can really create some visually beautiful designs and styles for your driveway. If aesthetics is more your thing, you are blessed with the possibilities with resin.
Block paving driveway colours: The style of blocks combined with a huge variety of colour blends mean that you are still very flexible with your overall choices. As stated earlier, the type of bricks you choose may be prone to fading in the later years of your driveway’s life, but newer effects and more varied block designs and sizes has led to a decrease in fading in recent years. Block paving has typically been one of the more decorative and visually attractive options to basic concrete, tarmac or gravel.
Gradient
Are resin driveways suitable for slopes? Very much so. They are actually a perfect choice for steep driveways. They can be mixed together with additives that prevent slipping, which ensures the safety of your driveway and any vehicles on it.
Are block paving driveways suitable for slopes? In a word, yes. With solid groundwork, an efficient block paving process will ensure you won’t succumb to sinking. If the excavated area is flat, a slight dip (with a 1:40 fall on the width and 1:80 along the length) will need to be constructed to aid the dispersal of surface water.
We’d highly recommend seeking advice on this matter from a professional block paving contractor to be safe.
Protection from floods
Both are permeable surfaces; rainwater can drain naturally from the sub-base.
Do resin driveways offer flood protection? Yes. The resin materials don’t soften or freeze dependant on weather conditions. Resin driveways are SUDS (Sustainable under Drainage Systems) compliant.
Do block paving driveways offer flood protection? Yes. Driveways are prone to a lot of surface pater and block paving slabs sometimes can make it difficult for water to soak away naturally. However, laying landscaping fabric below will keep the driveway tidy. Alternatively, if the driveway is laid with a compacted sub-base before the block paving is added, the water will flow between the slabs and into the ground.
Maintenance
How do you maintain a resin driveway? Minimally, to put it bluntly. Once it’s laid the maintenance costs are very low; you shouldn’t need to re-patch or relay anything. An occasional jet wash and a sweep will be all that’s needed from time to time.
How do you maintain a block paving driveway? There may be some maintenance costs over the course of your block paving driveway lifespan. You will need to factor in the weeds that will inevitably grow from the sand between the slabs, therefore weed killing sprays will be needed for these areas when you get around to cleaning them. If your driveway has fallen victim to subsidence, the surfaces will need to be relevelled and the gaps potentially sealed again.
Summary
There are a plethora of positives that come with both types of driveways. Both are permeable, require no planning permission and can end up looking incredibly decorative and aesthetically pleasing. Cost and time both play a major factor in determining the best course of action, but factoring in overall maintenance and longevity, both resin and block paving have considerable benefits to them. Both surface styles are considerably more appealing than standard tarmac or gravel.
However, we always recommend speaking to professionals who can offer a free assessment and quote beforehand and discussing your concerns with them. Our team here at DPM are skilled in all aspects of driveway design and maintenance and can help create a bespoke driveway design to help you create the perfect outside appearance for your home. Our driveways always come with a five year insurance backed guarantee.
Are you looking for a new driveway? At DPM, our team of block paving and resin driveway specialists will work with you to construct and design your perfect driveway, or even just discuss the practical possibilities of any ideas you have. We always aim to ensure your perfect driveway remains within your budget and we want to ensure you have as little stress as possible. For more information, get in touch with us today.
