Resin Bound vs. Block Paving: What's the Difference?

Jim Robinson • March 9, 2023

When you want to update or install a new driveway, you’ll find many options for pavement styles. Understanding the differences between these styles and traditional block paving will help you find the one that best fits your needs. This article will help you understand the differences between block paving and resin-bound pavement.

Water Issues

The first and biggest difference between these two options is how they interact with water. Resin-bound pavement is a water- permeable pavement , which means water flows right through the pavement to the ground below. Unlike block paving, resin bound will prevent puddles and staining that may affect traditional surfaces.

Regular Maintenance

Another great benefit of resin-bound pavement is that it requires significantly less maintenance than block paving. Primary maintenance for block paving is cleaning the water and ice from the driveway and fixing the water damage. Because the resin-bound pavement is porous, you won’t struggle with the same maintenance problems.

Overall Costs

The exact cost of the pavement can change depending on the driveway and specific designs. However, making a driveway with resin-bound paving is usually cheaper than traditional block paving. Additionally, the weed resistance and lower maintenance requirements of the resin-bound driveway make it cheaper over time, as you pay less for it every year.

Installation Process

While the exact time to lay down either paving option varies depending on the design, resin bound is easier to work with and can take less time to lay down. Normally, laying down a full driveway of resin-bound pavement takes only one workday, while block paving can take multiple days.

Extra Benefits

The differences don’t stop there, as resin-bound driveways are anti-slip, making it easy to walk with some confidence on the driveway. They are perfect for people who find it difficult to walk on uneven terrain. Additionally, resin bound will keep its unique color for a lot longer, so you can add more creativity and beauty to a home.

These are the main differences between the traditional block paving you see on most properties and the resin-bound paving option. The choice is yours as to what fits your home the best, as the prices are comparable at installation, though you’ll pay less money in the end.

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Resin Bound Tree Pit Surrounds

By Jim Robinson • September 9, 2025

Resin Bound Tree Pits: The Smarter Way to Protect and Showcase Urban Trees In towns and cities everywhere, urban planners face the same challenge: how to protect tree roots while keeping public spaces clean, attractive, and safe. Traditional solutions—like loose gravel, soil, or metal grilles—often fall short. That’s where resin bound tree pits come in. What is a Resin Bound Tree Pit? A resin bound tree pit is a surfacing system that uses a blend of natural stone aggregates bound together with a clear, UV tolerant resin. Installed around the base of a tree, it creates a strong, permeable, and decorative surface that allows rainwater to drain through while protecting the soil and roots below. Think of it as a breathable shield for urban trees: tough enough to withstand foot traffic, but porous enough to support healthy root growth. Why Choose Resin Bound for Tree Pits? Permeability for Healthy Trees The resin bound surface is fully porous, meaning water and air can still reach the roots. This promotes long-term tree health and reduces the risk of waterlogging. Cleaner, Safer Surfaces Unlike loose gravel, resin bound surfaces don’t scatter, sink, or create trip hazards. In fact they help to eliminate trip hazards! They provide a smooth, stable finish—ideal for high-footfall areas. Aesthetic Appeal With a wide choice of natural stone colors, resin bound tree pits can complement surrounding paving, creating a polished, modern look in public spaces. Durability & Low Maintenance Resin bound surfacing is resistant to weeds, litter build-up, and erosion. It keeps the area around tree bases tidy without constant upkeep. Accessibility Friendly A smooth surface around tree pits is easier to navigate for strollers, wheelchairs, and pedestrians—making public spaces more inclusive. Where Are Resin Bound Tree Pits Used? City sidewalks to reduce tripping hazards and improve walkability Parks and plazas for cleaner, more attractive landscapes Shopping districts where appearance and safety matter Corporate campuses or schools to combine functionality with visual appeal A Sustainable Choice for Urban Environments! Resin bound systems align with modern sustainability goals. By ensuring stormwater naturally drains into the ground, they help prevent flooding and reduce strain on drainage systems. Combined with their long service life, a very competitive price point, they’re a future-proof investment for greener, smarter cities. Final Thoughts If you are considering the use of resin bound for your tree pits, don't just choose any resin bound product, choose one that is time tested, data driven and will sustain the demands of a harsh city environment. A good resin bound product will have similar strengths to concrete yet it will be completely pervious. Resin bound tree pits are more than just a neat landscaping detail—they’re a practical solution that supports tree health, improves safety, and enhances the look of urban spaces. If you’re planning a streetscape project, commercial landscape, or public park, resin bound surfacing could be the perfect choice for both form and function.