Become an AMP Member! LEARN MORE
Become an AMP Member! LEARN MORE
What’s the Difference (and Which One Do You Actually Need?)
If you’re researching resin driveways, chances are you’ve come across two similar-sounding terms: resin bound and resin bonded.
They sound almost identical — but they’re completely different systems.
In fact, over 99% of homeowners looking for a “resin driveway” are actually looking for resin bound. They just don’t know the name yet. This page explains the difference clearly, in plain English, so you can choose the right option with confidence.
Suitable for driveways, cars, daily use
Not suitable for driveways, decorative only
A resin bound driveway is made by mixing natural stone and resin together first, then laying that mixture evenly across the surface.
When people picture a modern resin driveway, this is the system they’re imagining.
A resin bonded surface is installed very differently. First, liquid resin is spread over the surface. Then loose stones are scattered on top while the resin is still wet.
It is not a driveway system.
The Resin Driveway Experience
| Feature | Resin Bound | Resin Bonded |
|---|---|---|
| Suitable for driveways | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Designed for vehicles | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Fully permeable | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Puddle-free surface | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Loose stones | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Smooth finish | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Long-term durability | ✅ High | ❌ Limited |
| What most homeowners want | ✅ This one | ❌ Usually not |
Tip: If you’re looking for a resin driveway, you almost always want resin bound. The names sound similar, but they’re very different systems.
Most people come to us asking for “resin” without knowing the difference between resin bound and resin bonded. and that’s completely normal.
If you’re planning a driveway, we’ll explain what works, what doesn’t, and why, so you can make the right choice with confidence.
We’re very clear about this, because it’s where most confusion happens.
Resin bonded:
This is why we do not install resin bonded surfaces for driveways.
If a company is offering resin bonded for driveways, it’s usually because it’s cheaper and quicker — not because it’s the right solution.
The Resin Driveway Experience
Resin bound has become the preferred choice for modern driveways because it:
It’s also compliant with drainage requirements in most cases, meaning planning permission is usually not required.
Many homeowners are quoted resin bonded without the difference being explained properly. The name sounds right, the price looks good — but the system isn’t suitable for what they need.
That’s why we always:
Explain both systems clearly, recommend resin bound only for driveways, show real examples of finished resin bound driveways, give you time to decide.
No pressure, no upselling — just the correct solution.
Resin Driveway Ireland
At Resin Driveway Ireland:
Because when resin bound is installed properly, it lasts, and customers stay happy.
If you’re unsure, that’s completely normal. Resin is still new to many homeowners in Ireland.
We’re happy to: Look at your driveway photos, explain which system suits your property, show local resin bound examples, answer any questions — no obligation
Service Areas
We install resin driveways across Leinster, including:
Outside these areas? Get in touch and we’ll advise.
Resin bound is the correct choice for driveways. It’s designed for vehicle use, creates a solid surface, and allows water to drain through. Resin bonded is decorative and not suitable for cars.
The names are confusing, and that’s why many homeowners mix them up. Despite the similar wording, they’re installed differently and perform very differently. Resin bound is mixed before laying; resin bonded is scattered on top.
No. Resin bonded surfaces are not designed to handle vehicle traffic. Over time, loose stones can come away and the surface can fail under cars.
In some cases, it’s quicker or cheaper to install. However, it’s not the correct system for driveways and often leads to problems later. We don’t install resin bonded for this reason.
If you’re unsure, ask how the stone is installed. If the stone is mixed with resin before laying, it’s resin bound. If stone is scattered onto wet resin, it’s resin bonded. We’re also happy to review quotes and explain the difference.