Choosing a new driveway is an investment in your home, and the surface you select can make a big difference to its appearance, maintenance and long-term performance. Two popular options are resin-bound driveways and tarmac driveways, but which is right for your property?
Both offer practical benefits, although they suit different styles, budgets and requirements. Whether you’re replacing an old driveway or creating a completely new entrance, understanding the differences can help you make the right choice.
At Landmark Driveways, we have over 20 years of experience installing driveways across Bromsgrove, Droitwich and the surrounding areas. Here’s what to consider when comparing resin and tarmac.
Appearance and Design Options
One of the biggest differences between resin and tarmac is the finished appearance.
Resin-bound driveways offer a wide choice of colours and aggregate blends, from natural stone shades and warm golden tones to contemporary silver and grey finishes. The smooth, decorative surface creates a modern appearance that can complement a wide range of properties. Contrasting block paving borders can also add definition and character.
Tarmac driveways provide a clean, uniform finish that works particularly well for homeowners who prefer a simple, understated look. Traditional black tarmac remains popular, while decorative block paving edges can introduce colour and detail.
If appearance and design flexibility are your main priorities, resin-bound paving may be the better fit. If you prefer a straightforward finish with optional decorative edging, tarmac is well worth considering.
Explore Landmark’s resin driveway installations and tarmac driveway services to learn more about the options available.
Durability and Maintenance
Your driveway needs to withstand everyday use, changing weather and the weight of vehicles. Both surfaces can perform well when installed correctly, with proper ground preparation playing an important role.
Resin-bound driveways create a smooth, seamless surface with no conventional block joints. Routine cleaning helps keep the aggregate looking its best, while occasional maintenance may be needed to remove moss, weeds or debris.
Tarmac driveways are valued for their hard-wearing surface and relatively low maintenance requirements. They are suitable for regular vehicle use, although wear, cracking or potholes can develop over time depending on installation quality, drainage and usage.
At Landmark Driveways, we place importance on proper preparation, quality materials and professional installation. We also offer a 10-year workmanship guarantee, giving customers added peace of mind. The guarantee is subject to its terms and conditions, which you can read on our driveway guarantee page.
Cost and Value for Money
Your budget will naturally influence your choice of driveway surface.
Tarmac is often a cost-effective option, particularly for larger driveways where a practical, uniform finish is the priority. Resin-bound paving can involve a higher initial cost, depending on the aggregate selected, the area being covered and the preparation required.
However, the cheapest quotation isn’t always the best value. Consider the condition of the existing driveway, the amount of groundwork needed, drainage requirements and the quality of the materials included.
Landmark Driveways provides free site surveys and no-obligation quotations, so you can discuss your requirements and understand the costs before making a decision. We also take no upfront payments, helping you plan your project with greater confidence.
Drainage and Ground Preparation
Drainage is an important consideration when choosing any new driveway surface.
Resin-bound paving is permeable when installed as a suitable system over an appropriately prepared base. This allows water to drain through the surface, helping manage rainfall.
Tarmac is generally impermeable, so the driveway needs appropriate falls and drainage arrangements to manage surface water and prevent it from collecting near the property.
Landmark Driveways offers driveway drainage solutions, including ACO drainage where required. During a site survey, the existing surface, ground conditions and levels can be assessed to help determine the most suitable approach.
In England, planning and drainage requirements depend on the proposed surface and how rainwater is managed. Addressing these considerations before installation helps protect your property and the finished driveway.
Which Driveway Suits Your Property?
The best choice depends on what matters most to you.
Choose resin-bound paving if you want:
- A decorative finish with a wide choice of colours
- A smooth, contemporary appearance
- A permeable surface when correctly specified and installed.
- The option to incorporate contrasting block paving borders.
Choose tarmac if you want:
- A practical, hard-wearing driveway surface
- A clean, uniform finish
- A potentially cost-effective solution for larger areas
- The option to add decorative block paving edging.
Landmark Driveways can also help with driveway resurfacing and tarmac repairs where appropriate, so a complete replacement isn’t necessarily the only option. The right solution will depend on the condition of your existing driveway.
See Our Completed Driveway Projects
Seeing how different surfaces look on real properties can make your decision much easier. Consider the style of your home, the surrounding brickwork and landscaping, and whether you prefer a decorative or more understated finish.
Browse our completed driveway projects for inspiration and examples of our work.
From resin-bound driveways with attractive aggregate blends to smooth tarmac finishes with decorative borders, our project gallery can help you explore different possibilities for your own home.
Landmark Driveways works with homeowners in Bromsgrove, Droitwich, Worcester, Redditch, Kidderminster and the surrounding areas, providing driveway and landscaping services tailored to individual properties.
Resin or Tarmac? Get Expert Advice from Landmark Driveways
Both resin-bound and tarmac driveways offer practical benefits when designed and installed correctly. Resin may appeal if you want more choice in colour and finish, while tarmac is a strong contender if durability, value and a straightforward appearance are your priorities.
With over 20 years of experience, a 10-year workmanship guarantee and a focus on quality materials, Landmark Driveways can help you compare your options and choose a surface that suits your property and budget.
Planning a new driveway in Bromsgrove, Droitwich or the surrounding areas? Contact Landmark Driveways today to arrange your free, no-obligation site survey and quotation.
