Resin Driveways Do’s & Don’ts – Avoiding Common Problems

A resin driveway is low-maintenance by design, but the wrong cleaning methods or overlooked damage can still lead to avoidable resin-bound driveway problems. To help you keep your surface in great condition, we’ve laid out the essential care steps in a simple Do’s and Don’ts guide below.

This quick reference gives you an immediate overview of the practices that protect resin-bound paving and the mistakes that commonly lead to resin-bound driveway problems. Beneath the table, you’ll find detailed explanations that expand on each point, offering practical guidance to prevent the most frequent problems with resin-bound driveways and keep your installation looking its best for years to come.

Jet wash your resin driveway each season

Using a gentle, wide fan setting and keeping the pressure washer at least 20cm away. More Information.

Use an acid-free resin driveway cleaner 

Treats stains, algae and rust spots safely. More Information.

Brush your resin-bound paving regularly 

Helps remove debris before it settles – crucial in Autumn! More Information. 

Repair small patches early 

With the help of professional driveway installers or a resin-bound kit. More Information.

Use high-quality, resin-safe cleaning products

This helps protect colour and texture, especially on black resin driveways. We recommend this resin surface cleaner  which should last 2-4 years depending on usage.   More Information. 

Monitor high-traffic areas

Where vehicles turn or brake frequently and address any wear early. More information. 

Don’t use bleach, brick acid or harsh household chemical

These can burn, discolour, or weaken the resin. More Information.

Don’t use metal shovels or abrasive tools

Particularly in winter as they can scratch and chip the surface. More Information. 

Don’t ignore loose stones, ravelling or early surface changes

Small issues escalate quickly. More Information.

Don’t ignore puddling or poor drainage

 Resin-bound driveways should remain SUDS compliant. More Information. 

Don’t confuse resin bound with resin bonded

They require different cleaning methods. More information. 

Don’t leave early warning signs unassessed

seek a free quote if you notice dullness, cracks or whitening. More Information. 

 

Additional Information: 

DO: Jet wash your resin driveway every 3 months. 

Seasonal Jet washing helps preserve the appearance and longevity of your resin-bound surface. Using a pressure washer with a wide fan pattern prevents disturbance to the aggregate while removing algae, moss and buildup. Keeping the lance at least 20cm away protects the resin binder and ensures you maintain the highest standards of care for your installation. 

DON’T: Use bleach, brick acid or harsh household chemicals. 

Harsh chemicals cause some of the most common resin-bound driveway problems and long-term issues with resin. Bleach can break down the binder, brick acid can permanently scorch the colour, and many household cleaners are simply too abrasive. These products can affect both appearance and structure, especially on darker installations such as black resin driveways.

DO: Use an acid-free resin driveway cleaner to treat stains, algae and rust spots safely.

A specialist acid-free resin driveway cleaner or premium surface cleaner is designed to maintain colour and protect the aggregate. These products lift stubborn marks, remove algae and break down rust spots without damaging the resin. They’re suitable for both light and dark finishes and help extend the lifespan of the driveway between deeper cleans.

DON’T: Use metal shovels or abrasive tools in winter, as they can scratch and chip the surface.

Metal shovels, steel scrapers and abrasive brushes easily scratch a resin-bound surface, leaving marks that widen over time. In colder UK weather, resin becomes more susceptible to chips and cracks. We recommend plastic tools, rubber-edged shovels or a soft brush to clear snow and ice safely.

DO: Brush your resin-bound paving regularly to remove debris before it settles, crucial in Autumn. 

Sweeping removes leaves, grit and organic matter before they block the pores of your permeable system. This supports drainage and helps the driveway remain SUDS compliant. Regular sweeping in autumn is especially important, as leaves can trap moisture and encourage algae growth if left unmanaged

DON’T: Ignore loose stones, ravelling or early surface changes; small issues escalate quickly.

Minor movement of aggregate or early ravelling is often the first sign that the surface needs attention. Ignoring loose stones can lead to more serious problems with resin-bound driveways, particularly in turning zones or slopes. Early intervention is simple and far more cost-effective than waiting until the issue spreads.

DO: Repair small patches early with the help of professional driveway installers or a resin-bound kit.

When caught early, most defects can be repaired using a small quantity of resin from a resin-bound kit. Professional driveway installers can identify whether the issue is surface-level or structural, ensuring repairs meet the highest standards. Early patching prevents moisture ingress and avoids further deterioration.

DON’T: Ignore puddling or poor drainage- resin-bound driveways should remain SUDS compliant.

Puddling is never a good sign on a resin-bound system. It often indicates blocked pores, trapped debris or movement within the sub-base. A healthy resin driveway remains permeable and functional. Ignoring drainage changes can eventually lead to cracking, softening of the binder and other issues with resin that are more difficult to resolve.

DO: Use high-quality, resin-safe cleaning products to protect colour and texture. 

Puddling is never a good sign on a resin-bound system. It often indicates blocked pores, trapped debris or movement within the sub-base. A healthy resin driveway remains permeable and functional. Ignoring drainage changes can eventually lead to cracking, softening of the binder and other issues with resin that are more difficult to resolve.

DON’T: Confuse resin-bound with resin-bonded; they require different cleaning methods.

Although similar in name, the systems behave very differently:

• Resin-bound driveways are smooth, flexible and fully permeable.
• Resin-bonded surfaces have a textured finish and are not permeable.

Using the wrong approach can cause resin-bonded surfaces to shed aggregate and develop premature wear. If you’re unsure which type you have, ask your installer before cleaning the surface. 

DO: Monitor high-traffic areas where vehicles turn or brake frequently and address any wear early. 

Turning points, slopes, and entry areas experience the most mechanical stress. If you notice early fading or mild surface changes, address them quickly to avoid more significant damage. Regular inspection helps ensure the driveway continues to perform at the highest standards.

DON’T: Leave early warning signs unassessed-  seek a free quote if you notice dullness, cracks or whitening. 

Any visible change, from whitening and dullness to small cracks or early ravelling, should be checked by a professional. Many installers offer a free quote and will advise whether the issue requires immediate repair or simple maintenance. Acting early preserves the integrity of your installation and protects your investment.

If you’d like some help keeping your resin driveway in good condition or want a professional to check over anything you’ve noticed, get in touch with Ace Resin. We’re always happy to offer straightforward advice or provide a quick, no-obligation quote.