If you want a patio that fits in with the natural look of your garden and requires barely any maintenance, a resin patio might be the answer for you. But how much do resin patios cost? Find out in our guide.

How much does a resin patio cost?

A resin patio can provide a sleek and durable outdoor surface which is perfect for both modern and traditional garden designs. The cost of a resin patio in the UK varies depending on factors such as the size of the area, the type of resin used and any additional features or preparation required, but on average you can expect to pay £4,400 for a resin patio of 40m².

Resin patio cost per m²

The cost per square metre for a resin patio typically includes materials, labour and any additional expenses such as site preparation or waste disposal. The average cost of a resin patio per square metre is £110, but this varies depending on the type of resin you choose and whether you need a new sub-base or not:

Factors affecting the cost of a resin patio

Size of the area: The bigger your patio, the higher the costs, since you’ll need more materials and labour. However, you probably will see the cost per square metre come down since paving contractors usually get discounts on bulk-buying materials.

Type of resin: Different types of resin, such as resin bound or resin bonded, have different costs. While resin bonded is cheaper, you’ll need to factor in the cost of adding French drains or channels if you don’t have adequate drainage already, and you may need to apply for planning permission.

Preparation work: If site preparation work is required, such as excavation, levelling, or adding a new sub-base, this will add to the overall cost.

Additional features: Adding features such as edging or decorative aggregates will increase the complexity and cost of the patio installation.

Your location: One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of your resin patio is where you live. Costs tend to be higher in the south of England, while prices in Scotland, northern England and Wales tend to be lower.

At HaMuch, we use our database of hourly and daily rates from tradespeople across the UK to estimate costs for a range of projects in various towns and cities. Scroll down the page and find your location for a more accurate estimate for a resin patio.

Types of resin patio

There are different types of resin patio, and both have their benefits and drawbacks:

Resin-bound

• Consists of a mixture of resin and aggregates (gravel) that your patio specialist mixes together then spreads and levels it to create a smooth surface

• Provides a seamless and porous finish that is permeable to water, meaning it’s SUDs-compliant and rarely requires planning permission

• Ideal for driveways, pathways, and patio areas

Resin bonded

• Involves applying a layer of resin to a prepared surface and then scattering loose aggregates on top.

• Provides a textured and non-porous finish, so extra drainage is required

• Suitable for patios where slip-resistance is important.

Pros and cons of resin patios

It’s always best to weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of any project before you make your final decision. Here are the pros and cons of resin patios to help you decide whether it’s the right patio material for you:

Pros

• Durable and long-lasting, with minimal maintenance required

• Resistant to staining, UV damage and frost

• Resin-bound patios provide a smooth and seamless surface with excellent drainage properties

• Available in a wide range of colours and finishes to complement any property

Cons

• Higher upfront cost compared to some other patio materials

• Requires professional installation to ensure proper mixing and application

• Can become hot in direct sunlight, especially darker colours

• Resin bonded patios are not SUDs-compliant, meaning extra drainage is required and you may need to apply for planning permission

How long do resin patios last?

How long resin patios last depends on how well you care and maintain them, but they can last 15 to 25 years or more when looked after properly. Make sure you clean regularly with a pressure washer or water and a broom, and reseal when required to prolong your resin patio’s lifespan.

Is a resin patio cheaper than slabs?

The cost of a resin patio can vary depending on factors such as the type of resin used, the size of the area and any additional features or preparation required, but generally, a resin patio is more expensive than slabs.

While resin patios may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional paving slabs, they should last longer, are more durable and offer far more designs than paving slabs.

What is the best base for a resin patio?

There are two types of base that are recommended for a resin patio: a macadam (often called Tarmac) or concrete base:

Macadam: Recommended for resin bound patios that need to be permeable and SUDS-compliant, the base should include a 50mm depth of 14mm porous surface course macadam, with a 100-200mm depth of well-compacted MOT type 3 sub-base.

Concrete: Concrete can be used for resin-bound patios, but is not permeable so will require additional drainage to be SUDS-compliant. The sub-base should be made up of 100-200mm of well-compacted MOT type 1 aggregate, with a 100mm depth of smooth brushed concrete that is fully cured with a primer applied.

Everyone’s garden is different, so your patio and path specialist will be able to tell you more about which base is best for you.

Can weeds grow through a resin patio?

One of the benefits of a resin patio is its seamless and non-porous surface, which means it’s weed-resistant. Therefore, you won’t get any weeds through your resin patio. However, they may still emerge along the edges or joints of your patio where there is soil or organic matter like grass present.

It’s best to regularly maintain your resin patio by sweeping and gentle pressure washing to remove any potential seeds that could begin to grow around the edges if they get blown there. If you do see any weeds pop up around the edges, remove them quickly to prevent them from becoming a problem.

If you’re ready to start your resin patio project, post your job on HaMuch now. We’ll put you in touch with paving specialists who will be happy to give you a quote.

Estimates for common patio and path specialist jobs;

Rates for other trades