Resin Bound vs Pavers: Which Is Better for Driveways?

If you’re choosing a new driveway, two popular options are resin bound and pavers.
They can both look premium - but they behave differently over time.

This guide compares them in a simple way so you can choose with confidence.

Quick Answer

Choose resin bound if you want:

• A smooth, seamless driveway
• Better drainage (less puddling)
• Lower maintenance (fewer weeds)
• A modern, clean look

Choose pavers if you want:

• A classic brick/stone style
• Easy “swap a paver” repairs
• A strong surface for heavy loads (when installed correctly)

👉 Learn more about a resin bound driveway

1) Look & Curb Appeal

Resin Bound

• Seamless finish (no joints)
• Natural stone blends
• Looks modern and high-end

See real examples in our project gallery

Pavers

• Many patterns (herringbone, basket weave, borders)
• More “traditional” style
• Strong design options with edging

Winner: Tie (it depends on your style).

2) Drainage (Puddles vs Permeable)

Resin Bound

• Often built as a permeable driveway
• Water drains through the surface
• Helps reduce standing water

Learn how permeable resin systems work

Pavers

• Standard pavers drain using slope + gaps
• Weeds and sand washout can affect drainage
• Permeable pavers exist, but need special base layers

Winner: Resin bound (usually easier to get reliable drainage).

3) Maintenance (Weeds, Cleaning, and Shifting)

Resin Bound

• Fewer weeds (no joints)
• Easier to clean
• Less movement when the base is done right

For materials used in resin bound, explore our resin kits

Pavers

• Weeds often grow in the joints
• Joint sand can wash out
• Pavers can settle over time if the base isn’t perfect

Winner: Resin bound (lower long-term upkeep for most homes).

4) Durability & Lifespan

Resin Bound

• Very durable for residential driveways
• Performance depends on base prep
• UV-stable systems help protect color over time

If you’re choosing binder options, view UV-stable resin products

Pavers

Pavers can be extremely strong, but poor base prep can cause:

• uneven pavers
• dips
• shifting

Winner:

• Heavy-duty loads: pavers (with engineered base)
• Everyday residential driveways: resin bound (durable + stable feel)

5) Comfort & Safety

Resin Bound

• Smooth, comfortable surface
• No edges between blocks
• Great for walking and everyday use

Pavers

• Joints can create uneven spots over time
• Can get slippery with moss/algae if not maintained

Winner: Resin bound for comfort and consistent surface.

6) Repairs (What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?)

Resin Bound

• Repairs are possible
• Best results come from professional blending/matching

Need help? Contact our team here

Pavers

• Easy to replace single pavers
• If the base is failing, bigger sections may need rework

Winner: Pavers for quick single-piece repairs.

7) Cost: Resin Bound vs Pavers

Costs depend on:

• Your location
• Size of the driveway
• Existing surface condition
• Base work needed
• Materials/design choice

Important: the base is the biggest factor for both surfaces.
A weak base = cracks, dips, shifting, puddles.

To price materials, contact us

Best Choice by Situation

Choose Resin Bound if you want:

• Low maintenance (fewer weeds)
• Better drainage
• Seamless premium look
• Smooth surface

Start here: resin bound driveway solutions

Choose Pavers if you want:

• Classic brick/stone look
• Easy piece replacement
• Decorative patterns and borders
• Heavy-load durability (with proper base)

Pro Tip: Ask Installers These 4 Questions

No matter what you choose, ask:

1. What base thickness will you install?
2. How will you compact it?
3. How will you handle drainage?
4. What warranty do you provide?

If you need guidance, talk to our team

FAQs

Is resin bound better than pavers?

For most homeowners, resin bound is better for drainage and low maintenance. Pavers are better for easy single-piece repairs.

Do pavers get weeds?

Yes, weeds commonly grow in joints unless maintained and re-sanded regularly.

Which lasts longer?

Both can last a long time. The real difference is base quality and installation.

Which is better for drainage?

Resin bound is usually the easiest way to get a consistent permeable driveway.

Final Verdict

If you want a driveway that’s clean-looking, low maintenance, and great for drainage, resin bound is often the best choice.

If you want a classic patterned look and easy single-piece repairs, pavers can be a great option.

Ready to start? Explore resin bound systems