Resin driveways require precise measurements, not estimates. A fully installed resin driveway in the UK costs between £60 and £120 per square metre. That’s just the start. Your project cost depends on your driveway size, surface condition, and home location.
This guide provides clear pricing tables, a cost breakdown, and all necessary information to help you budget confidently.
Total Cost by Driveway Size (Fully Installed)
Use this table to estimate your total project cost. All prices include materials + professional installation.
| Driveway Size | Square Metres (m²) | Total Cost Range | Price per m² (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1-car) | 20 m² | £1,500 – £3,000 | £75 – £150 |
| Medium (2-car) | 50 m² | £4,000 – £6,500 | £80 – £130 |
| Large (multi-car) | 100 m² | £8,000 – £12,000 | £80 – £120 |
Why the range?
The lower end applies when your existing concrete or tarmac is in good condition (direct overlay). The higher end applies when full excavation and a new sub‑base are required.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Here is exactly where your money goes. Rhino Resin Works itemises every job so you never get a surprise.
Preparation & Groundwork (Most Variable)
This is the biggest factor that changes your final price.
- Direct overlay (no excavation): Your existing surface is solid and level. We clean, prime and lay resin directly on top. Adds £0 – £500 to your total.
- Partial repair: Minor cracks or dips are filled and levelled. Adds £500 – £1,500.
- Full excavation & new sub‑base: We dig out the old driveway (block paving, mud, or old concrete), lay MOT Type 3 stone, compact it, and install edging. Adds £3,000 or more, depending on driveway size.
Resin Type – Always Choose UV‑Stable
| Resin Type | Lifespan | Appearance | Our Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| UV‑stable resin | 15+ years | Stays colour‑true, no yellowing | Always used by Rhino |
| Non‑UV resin | 12–18 months | Turns yellow and brittle | We never install this |
Cost difference: UV‑stable resin adds approximately £5–£10 per m² compared to non‑UV. We consider this essential – cheap resin fails quickly and costs you more in the long run.
Location – Labour Costs by Region
Labour rates vary across the UK.
- London & South East: Add 15–20% to the labour portion of your quote.
- Midlands, North England, Scotland & Wales: Standard Rhino rates apply – no hidden postcode premium.
- Very remote rural areas: A small travel surcharge may apply (capped at 10%).
Bullet Point Summary: 6 Factors That Control Your Price
When comparing quotes or planning your budget, keep these six factors in mind:
- Existing driveway condition – overlay is cheap, full dig out is expensive.
- Edging – simple plastic edging (£10/m) vs. block paving edging (£30/m).
- Drainage – new linear drain adds £250–£500 if required.
- Resin type – always UV‑stable (we only use this).
- Aggregate colour – standard colours are included; premium or imported aggregates may add £5–£10/m².
- Location – London / South East commands higher labour rates.
Hidden Costs That Surprise Homeowners
Some contractors omit these from their initial quote. Rhino Resin Works does not.
| Potential Hidden Cost | Typical Extra | Rhino Resin Works Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Asbestos in old driveway | £500 – £1,000 for safe removal | We offer a £25 test kit before quoting. No nasty surprises. |
| Tree roots | £300 – £600 for root barrier | Free root survey on request. |
| Waste disposal (skips) | £200 – £400 | Included in our excavation price – never a separate charge. |
| Missing primer layer | £0 short‑term, but driveway fails within 2 years | Primer is always included in our standard installation. |
Is a Resin Driveway Worth the Cost?
Yes – when you consider the full lifespan.
Compare to other driveway types (50m² medium driveway):
| Driveway Type | Typical Cost (50m²) | Lifespan | Maintenance | Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tarmac | £2,500 | 10 years | Cracks, weeds, resealing | £250/year |
| Block paving | £3,000 | 15 years | Weeding, re‑sand, pressure wash | £200/year |
| Resin bound (Rhino) | £5,000 | 20+ years | Hose down occasionally | £250/year |
Quick FAQ
Q: How much is a resin driveway per m² in the UK?
A: Between £60 and £120 per m² fully installed. A typical two‑car driveway (50m²) costs £4,000 to £6,500.
Q: Why do some quotes seem much cheaper?
A: Cheap quotes usually exclude groundwork, use non‑UV resin (which yellows), or omit edging and drainage. Always ask: “Does this include UV‑stable resin and a full sub‑base if needed?”
Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: Not for standard resin bound driveways because they are porous (water drains through). If your front garden is over 5m² and you choose a non‑porous system, you may need permission. Rhino only installs porous resin bound.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: A 50m² driveway typically takes 2–3 days including preparation. Larger driveways may take 3–4 days.
Q: How do I maintain a resin driveway?
A: Very low maintenance. Occasional sweeping and a hose down once or twice a year. Avoid power washing on the highest setting.
