If you’re planning a new outdoor space—whether it’s a school playground, community path, or public park—you’ve likely come across resin bound surfacing. Known for its smooth, decorative finish and excellent permeability, this modern solution is fast becoming a top choice across the UK.
Resin bound surfacing is a smooth, durable, and permeable outdoor flooring made by mixing natural stone with resin. It’s ideal for playgrounds, paths, and public spaces due to its slip resistance, low maintenance, and custom colour options—offering both style and safety in one long-lasting solution.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what resin bound surfacing is, its benefits, how much it typically costs in the UK, and the wide range of colour options available. Whether you’re a school, local authority, or private landowner, this blog will help you decide whether resin bound is the right fit for your next surfacing project.
What Is Resin Bound Surfacing?
Resin bound surfacing is a type of decorative, hard-wearing surfacing made by mixing natural aggregates—such as gravel or stone—with a high-quality clear resin. This blend is trowel-applied to create a flat, seamless surface that is both permeable and visually attractive.
Unlike traditional gravel, the resin binds the aggregates together in a single layer, meaning the surface won’t scatter or become loose underfoot. Once cured, the result is a strong, smooth finish with excellent drainage and long-term durability.
Resin Bound vs Resin Bonded: What’s the Difference?
These terms are often confused but refer to different techniques:
- Resin Bound: The resin and aggregate are mixed together before application. This method creates a smooth, porous surface.
- Resin Bonded: Resin is spread across the base first, and then aggregate is scattered on top. This creates a rougher texture and is not permeable.
For playgrounds, parks, and public spaces where safety and drainage are important, resin bound is generally the better option.
Key Benefits of Resin Bound Surfacing
Resin bound surfaces offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice for commercial and educational environments. These include:
Permeability
Resin bound surfaces are fully permeable, allowing water to drain through naturally. This helps prevent puddles, reduces the risk of flooding, and complies with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations.
Durability
Designed to last, resin bound surfaces can withstand heavy foot traffic, bicycles, pushchairs and even light vehicles. With proper installation and maintenance, the surface can last over 15 years.
Low Maintenance
The seamless finish means there are no loose stones or cracks where weeds can grow. A simple sweep and occasional power wash are usually sufficient to keep it looking clean and fresh.
Slip Resistance
The texture of the aggregate creates a naturally slip-resistant surface, enhancing safety for children, pedestrians, and those using mobility aids. This makes resin bound surfacing particularly well-suited for playgrounds, where minimising the risk of slips and falls is essential. For further guidance on playground safety standards, you can refer to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA).
Accessible and Smooth
Resin bound surfacing is ideal for inclusive environments due to its flat, smooth finish. It is easy to navigate for wheelchair users, prams, and bikes, and helps prevent trips and falls.
Aesthetic Appeal
Resin bound surfacing comes in a diverse selection of colours and textures, making it suitable for blending seamlessly with natural landscapes or adding bold, eye-catching features to playgrounds and school environments.
Eco-Friendly Solution
Many of the aggregates are sourced locally and are naturally occurring. Combined with its permeability and support for sustainable water drainage, resin bound surfacing is a more environmentally conscious choice.
Resin Bound Surface Costs in the UK
The cost of resin bound surfacing in the UK typically ranges between £45 and £80 per square metre. However, the final price can vary depending on several key factors:
Area Size
Larger projects tend to be more cost-effective per square metre. Smaller areas may have a higher per-metre cost due to setup and edge finishing requirements.
Base Preparation
A strong base is crucial. If the existing surface is uneven or unsuitable, excavation and preparation may add to the overall cost.
Aggregate Type
Premium stone blends and unique colour combinations may increase material costs. Natural aggregates such as granite or quartz are often more expensive than standard options.
Location and Access
Sites that are difficult to access or located far from suppliers may incur additional delivery or labour charges.
Customisation
Incorporating patterns, graphics, or branding will increase the complexity and cost but can provide a more engaging and tailored finish.
To avoid unexpected costs, always request a detailed site assessment and written quote.
Colour Choices for Resin Bound Surfacing
A standout feature of resin bound surfacing is the broad variety of available colours. Whether you prefer a muted, natural look or something more vibrant and eye-catching, there’s a colour option to match the style and purpose of your space.
Natural Colours
Popular choices include shades of buff, beige, amber, and stone grey. These are often used in parks, heritage sites, and residential paths where a more understated aesthetic is required.
Bright and Bold Colours
For schools, nurseries, and play areas, brighter colours such as red, green, or blue can be used to create zones, patterns, or interactive designs.
Custom Blends
You can combine different aggregates to create bespoke colour schemes that align with branding, themes, or architectural features.
Personalised Design Elements
Resin bound surfaces allow for creative additions such as school logos, geometric patterns, or contrasting borders, helping to make your space both functional and visually engaging.
Abacus Playgrounds offers a wide palette of colour blends and samples, giving you full control over the look and feel of your outdoor area.
Is Resin Bound Right for Your Project?
If you’re unsure whether resin bound surfacing is the right choice, consider the following:
Ideal Uses
- School playgrounds
- Public parks and green spaces
- Pathways and footpaths
- Residential driveways and garden walkways
- Communal courtyards and seating areas
Things to Consider
- Do you need a permeable surface to manage rainwater?
- Is long-term durability a key priority?
- Are you seeking a low-maintenance option?
- Would a custom design or colour scheme enhance the space?
While other materials like tarmac, wet pour rubber, or block paving may be suitable in some cases, resin bound offers a unique combination of strength, sustainability, and customisation that makes it a strong contender for many projects.
Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Space with Resin Bound Surfacing?
Resin bound surfacing is a versatile and practical choice for many outdoor environments. Its blend of durability, safety, visual appeal, and environmental benefits makes it especially well-suited to modern playgrounds and community spaces.If you’re considering a new surfacing project, resin bound may be the right solution. To find out more or to request a free consultation, get in touch with the team at Abacus Playgrounds today.