Tarmac and resin bound are two very different products at different price points. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide which is right for your property.
Appearance
Tarmac: Dark grey to black surface with a largely uniform texture. A fresh tarmac drive looks clean and tidy, but the dark colour fades over time and it can look utilitarian rather than premium.
Resin Bound: Natural stone aggregate embedded in resin — warm, textured, and available in dozens of colour options. The appearance is significantly more premium and adds more visible kerb appeal.
*Winner: Resin bound.*
Cost
Tarmac: Typically £30–£50/m², making it the more affordable option for large areas.
Resin Bound: £60–£90/m² installed. Higher upfront cost.
*Winner: Tarmac on upfront cost — resin bound on whole-life value.*
Drainage (SUDS Compliance)
Tarmac: Impermeable. Requires drainage channels to manage surface water. Planning permission may be needed for front garden driveways over 5m².
Resin Bound: Fully permeable. SUDS compliant. No planning permission needed for standard residential driveways.
*Winner: Resin bound.*
Maintenance
Tarmac: Tarmac driveways need resealing every 3–5 years to maintain their appearance and waterproofing. Weed growth through cracks is common. Tarmac softens in very hot weather.
Resin Bound: Virtually maintenance-free. Occasional pressure washing is all that's required. No resealing, no weed treatment.
*Winner: Resin bound.*
Heat Performance
Tarmac: Can soften and mark (footprints, tyre marks) in sustained hot weather. Less of an issue in Yorkshire, but an increasing consideration with warmer summers.
Resin Bound: Not affected by heat — the cured resin remains stable at temperatures well above anything experienced in the UK.
*Winner: Resin bound.*
Lifespan
Tarmac: 10–15 years before significant surface wear or cracking — then re-laying or resurfacing is required.
Resin Bound: 15–25 years of consistent performance with minimal maintenance.
*Winner: Resin bound.*
Our Recommendation
If budget is the primary driver and you need a no-frills surface for a large, utilitarian area, tarmac is a serviceable choice. But for a front driveway where appearance, longevity, and drainage performance matter, resin bound consistently delivers better value over time — despite the higher initial investment.