Resin Bound Gravel Surfacing
Resin bound gravel is a durable, decorative paving system that delivers a smooth, seamless finish suitable for commercial, educational and public environments. The surface combines natural stone aggregates with a clear resin to create a strong, fully permeable surface that provides excellent drainage throughout the year.
Abacus installs resin bound surfacing across the UK for schools, parks, pathways, courtyards and landscaped areas. With a wide choice of natural stone blends and a resilient, low-maintenance finish, resin bound gravel offers a practical alternative to tarmac, block paving or concrete.
Contact us for a free quotation or to arrange a site survey.
What Sets Abacus Apart
- Over 20 years’ experience installing specialist surfacing
- Fully permeable SUDS-compliant resin systems
- Wide selection of natural stone aggregate blends
- UV-stable resin options for long-lasting colour
- Slip-resistant, smooth finish suitable for public access
- Low-maintenance alternative to traditional paving
- Suitable for schools, commercial entrances, parks and pathways
- Nationwide installation teams
- Free site surveys and tailored specifications
What Is Resin Bound Gravel?
Resin bound gravel is created by mixing natural decorative aggregates with a clear polyurethane resin and trowelling the mixture onto a prepared base. Once cured, the result is a smooth, uniform surface with no loose stones.
Because the aggregates are fully encapsulated within the resin, the surface maintains the appearance of natural gravel without the movement or maintenance associated with loose materials. The structure remains porous, allowing water to drain through easily and helping to prevent surface water build-up.
SUDS Compliance and Permeability
Resin bound gravel is fully permeable when installed on a suitable base, making it an ideal choice for areas where effective drainage is important. The system supports Sustainable Drainage Strategies (SUDS) by allowing rainwater to pass through the surface and into the ground below.
Key benefits of permeability include:
- Reduced surface water and puddling
- Lower risk of flooding in heavy rain
- Improved water management for schools and public areas
- Potential planning advantages where permeability is required
- Insert permeability data or technical sheet here.
- How Resin Bound Surfacing Is Installed
Each installation is carried out by trained teams following a consistent process to ensure long-term performance.
- Initial site visit and assessment
- Base preparation using a suitable sub-base (e.g., Type 1 or concrete)
- Application of primer where required
- Mixing of resin and natural aggregates
- Hand-trowelling to achieve a smooth, level finish
- Allowing the surface to cure
- Final quality checks
The surface can typically be walked on after a short curing period, depending on site conditions.
Where Resin Bound Gravel Can Be Installed
This versatile surface is used across a wide range of projects, including:
- School pathways and entrances
- Public parks and footpaths
- Courtyards and landscaped areas
- Tree pits and planting borders
- Business entrances and pedestrian zones
- Decorative walkways
- Seating areas and communal outdoor spaces
- View our case studies for examples of recent installations.
Benefits of Resin Bound Surfacing
- Fully permeable for excellent drainage
- Smooth and slip-resistant finish
- Durable under regular foot traffic
- Low maintenance
- Natural appearance with a wide choice of stone blends
- Seamless surface with no trip points
- Suitable for wheelchair and pushchair access
- Resistant to weathering and UV exposure
- No loose stones or migration
Colour Options
Resin bound systems are available in a wide range of natural stone blends, from warm earth tones to cooler greys and contemporary finishes. Corporate patterns and logo designs can be incorporated where required, making the system suitable for commercial entrances and public buildings.
Please note that colours may vary slightly depending on aggregate supply and screen settings.
Maintenance and Longevity
Resin bound gravel is designed to be low maintenance. Occasional sweeping and light cleaning will help maintain the appearance, and the permeable structure helps reduce moss and algae growth. When installed on a suitable base, the surface offers a long service life and reliable performance throughout the year.
Jet washing at a low pressure can be used if required.
Technical Specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
Is resin bound gravel fully permeable?
How long does resin bound surfacing last?
Lifespan varies by usage and location, but the surface is designed to provide many years of service with minimal maintenance.
What is the difference between resin bound and resin bonded?
Resin bound is mixed fully with aggregates to create a smooth, permeable finish. Resin bonded is applied as a scatter coat and is not permeable.
Is the surface slip-resistant?
Resin bound gravel provides a smooth but slip-resistant finish suitable for public pathways.
Can it be installed over existing concrete or tarmac?
Yes, provided the base is structurally sound and correctly prepared.
How long before the surface can be used?
Curing typically allows for foot traffic after a short period, depending on weather conditions.
Do you install across the UK?
Yes. Our teams work nationwide on commercial and public projects.