In short: loose stones usually mean too little resin or laying in poor conditions; cracks usually come from movement or joints in the base; yellowing usually means a non-UV-stable resin; ponding means the base or falls are wrong. Small areas can often be cut out and patched, though a colour match is rarely perfect. Widespread faults usually need resurfacing.
Common faults and their usual causes
| Problem | Likely cause | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Loose stones, crumbly surface | Under-resined mix, laid in cold, damp or humid conditions, or poor mixing | Small areas cut out and relaid; widespread failure needs resurfacing |
| Cracks in a straight line | Joint or crack in the concrete or tarmac below | Cut out, treat the base, relay; or form a joint |
| Random cracking, sinking | Failed or inadequate sub-base | Excavate the affected area and rebuild |
| Yellowing or darkening | Non-UV-stable (aromatic) resin in sunlight | Resurface with UV-stable resin; cannot be cleaned off |
| Ponding | Impermeable base without adequate falls, or clogged surface | Clean the surface; if persistent, correct falls or drainage |
| Green or black growth | Shade, damp, organic debris | Clean and treat; improve sweeping routine |
| Oil stains | Leaks from vehicles | Prompt cleaning; deep stains may need patching |
Getting it assessed
An installer should look at the edges, any cracks and the surface texture, and ask about the original specification if you have it. Photos help: include close-ups and the whole drive.
Preventing problems
Most problems are prevented before work starts: a sound base, a UV-stable resin, correct mix ratios, and laying only in suitable weather. One manufacturer's guide gives a working temperature of 10°C to 35°C and says not to lay when rain is expected within four hours of completion. Use our installer checklist before you commission a new drive.
Frequently asked questions
Can a repair be invisible?
Rarely completely. Aggregate batches and the original surface weather differently, so a patch is usually visible close up. Cutting the repair to a straight line or a border edge helps it look intentional.
Should the original installer fix it?
If the drive is within its guarantee period, contact the original installer first and check the guarantee terms. A different installer may void it.
Related guides
Do resin driveways crack?
Why cracks appear, how to read them, and how a correct base prevents them.
Maintenance and cleaning
A simple routine, safe pressure-washing settings, and how to deal with oil, moss and snow.
Driveway resurfacing
Overlay or full rebuild? How to tell which your drive needs, and what each involves.