In short: survey and design, excavation, geotextile and sub-base, binder course, edging, then mixing and trowelling the resin bound layer, followed by curing. Resin should only be laid within its working limits: one manufacturer's guide gives 10°C to 35°C, a surface at least 3°C above dew point, humidity no higher than around 80 to 85%, and no rain within four hours of completion.
1. Survey and design
The installer measures the area, checks the existing surface and ground, levels, falls, thresholds, damp-proof course, manhole covers and access. They decide between overlay and rebuild, and how surface water will be managed. You choose colours and borders from physical samples.
2. Excavation (rebuilds)
The old surface and soft ground are dug out to the designed depth. Government guidance puts typical driveway construction at 200 to 250 mm beneath the surface. Waste is removed from site.
3. Geotextile and sub-base
A geotextile separates the ground from the sub-base. The sub-base, often around 150 mm, is compacted in layers. For a permeable driveway it is an open-graded material such as Type 3 or 4/20; Type 1 contains fines that slow drainage.
4. Binder course
A binder course, typically permeable macadam for drained drives, gives a firm, even platform for the resin. On overlays, this stage is replaced by repairing and preparing the existing tarmac or concrete.
5. Edging
Edge restraint, such as block, sett or aluminium edging, is fixed so the thin resin layer has a solid edge to finish against.
6. Mixing and laying
Dried aggregate and two-part resin are mixed in a forced-action mixer for a set time, then spread and hand-trowelled to the specified depth, often around 18 mm for driveways. Consistent timing matters: one manufacturer's guide says each mix should take no more than five minutes after the resin is added and every stage should be timed identically. An anti-slip grit may be scattered on the surface.
7. Curing and handover
Curing depends on temperature. The area is taped off while it cures. You should receive written aftercare guidance and details of the guarantee.
What to watch on the day
- Materials are kept dry and covered
- Each mix is timed, not judged by eye
- Weather checked against the limits, with work stopped if rain is coming
- Trowel finish is even, with no thin patches at edges
- Manhole covers, thresholds and drains are neatly detailed
Frequently asked questions
How long does installation take?
An overlay on a sound base is often one to two days. A full rebuild adds excavation, sub-base and binder course, so several days is typical, plus weather allowance.
Can resin be laid in winter?
Only on days within the system's temperature and humidity limits. Cold slows curing and damp conditions can cause surface defects, so many installers avoid laying in mid-winter. See resin driveways in winter.
Should I be at home during the work?
It helps to be available at the start to confirm levels, colour and drainage, and at the end to inspect the finish and receive aftercare instructions.
Related guides
Installer checklist
20 questions to ask before you sign, covering base, resin, drainage, guarantee, insurance and payment.
Winter, frost and snow
When resin can and cannot be laid in cold weather, and how to look after a drive through frost and snow.
Resin bound driveways
Seamless, permeable stone driveways. What goes under the resin, how long they last and what a proper quote covers.