Tarmac or Resin Driveway: Which is the Best Choice for You?

Tarmac vs. Resin Driveway – A Comprehensive Comparison

The popularity of resin bonded driveways has increased exponentially in recent years. Deciding what surface to install for a new driveway at your home or business premises can be a difficult decision, and as a significant investment, it is important to consider all options available.

Choosing the right material for your driveway is crucial as it affects the aesthetics, durability, and maintenance needs of your home or business premises. In this guide, we compare two popular materials: Tarmac or Resin?

Not sure which is right for your home? Get free advice from our team – no obligation.

Benefits of a Tarmac Driveway

You want your new driveway to last as long as possible and Tarmac has a strong reputation as a reliable surface material, witnessed everyday and everywhere in its use for car parks, roads, airport runways and pavements. However, it can be said that Tarmac is not the ultra-durable surface it once was – advancements in petrochemical technologies mean that the left over base oil sludges from the processes of crude oil refinement are no longer as optimal for asphalt creation. This means the sticky glue that binds the broken stones to produce asphalt, sold to asphalt mixing plants, is not as ideal for asphalt creation as it used to be.

Advantages of a Resin Driveway

One alternative is Resin Bonded Aggregate. Tarmac is made by mixing melted tar with broken stones. It can be poured into place and will set into a very tough yet flexible surface. Tarmac however, is only semi-permeable, meaning it is susceptible to flooding or surface water during heavy rainfall. Resin bound surfacing on the other hand, is created onsite by combining aggregate with a polyurethane binder, installed with a smooth finish and no loose chippings, resulting in a fully SUDs compliant surface which enables water to drain away effectively, and thus limiting localised flooding.

Installation Process: Tarmac vs. Resin

Tarmac driveways are known for their straightforward installation process. The material is laid while hot and then compacted using a roller, which allows for a quick setting and curing process, making it ideal for large areas that need to be completed efficiently.

Resin driveways, on the other hand, offer more customization options. The installation involves mixing clear resin with aggregate before laying it down to set. This method allows for a variety of colours and patterns, as the aggregate can be chosen to fit specific design preferences. The resin must be carefully mixed and applied to ensure a smooth, durable surface, making the installation process more detailed and tailored.

Maintenance and Longevity

Tarmac and Resin driveways have different maintenance needs due to their material properties. Resin driveways are durable and maintain their colour well, which minimises their upkeep requirements. They are particularly resistant to UV light and don’t fade as quickly as other materials.

On the other hand, Tarmac driveways require more frequent maintenance because they are only semi-permeable. This means they can retain moisture, leading to potential surface damage and may need periodic resealing to prevent deterioration and to maintain their appearance.

Tarmac or Resin? A Cost Comparison

When comparing the costs of Tarmac or Resin driveways, both initial and long-term expenses vary significantly.

Tarmac Driveways:

Initial Cost: Generally lower than Resin. The materials and installation process are less expensive, making Tarmac a cost-effective option for large areas.
Long-Term Cost: Higher maintenance requirements can increase long-term costs. Tarmac may need periodic resealing and repairs to cracks or damage from weather.

Resin Driveways:

Initial Cost: Typically higher due to the cost of materials and a more labour-intensive installation process.
Long-Term Cost: Resin driveways often incur lower long-term costs because they are durable and require less frequent maintenance. They are resistant to UV damage, don’t fade as quickly, and are less prone to cracking.

Overall, the choice between Tarmac and Resin should consider both upfront investment and expected maintenance over the driveway’s lifespan.

So.. Which Surfacing Material is Right for You?

Choosing between a Tarmac or a Resin driveway depends on your specific needs:

Durability: If durability is a priority, Resin might be preferable due to its robustness and resistance to weathering.
Aesthetics: For more aesthetic flexibility, Resin offers a range of colours and finishes that can be customized to match your property’s style.
Budget: If cost is a major factor, Tarmac is generally more budget-friendly both in terms of initial installation and short-term maintenance.
Maintenance: Resin driveways require less maintenance over time, which could mean lower long-term costs despite the higher initial investment.

Assess these factors based on your priorities to make the best choice for your driveway.

Need help deciding? Request a free quote today.

Tarmac or Resin?…

Whatever surface you choose for your next driveway, you can guarantee that a driveway installed by Debmat Surfacing, as the North East’s premier surfacing contractor, will enhance your property appearance. Whether you choose traditional paving, concrete, block or brick paving, tarmac or resin, all popular driveway surfacing options have there own pros and cons. Get in touch with a friendly member of the Debmat Surfacing team today to discuss what might be the best option for you: ☎️ 0191 413 6855