Pattern Imprinted Concrete vs Resin Driveways: Which Should You Choose?
- Drive Tech UK Ltd
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
When it comes to choosing a new driveway for your home, pattern imprinted concrete and resin-bound surfacing are two popular options. Both offer a modern look, but they differ in cost, durability, and maintenance.
In this guide, we’ll compare the two surfaces to help you decide which is right for your property in Wolverhampton or the wider West Midlands.
What Are the Differences?
Pattern imprinted concrete is created by pouring concrete, adding colour, and stamping a pattern into the surface before it sets. It mimics the look of stone, brick, or slate and is sealed to protect the surface.
Resin-bound surfacing is made by mixing decorative stone with a clear resin, then trowelling it onto a prepared base. It creates a smooth, often porous surface with a pebble-like appearance.
Cost Comparison
Pattern Imprinted Concrete
Average cost: £95–£100 per m²
Best suited to large areas or decorative finishes
Offers good value when installed properly
Resin-Bound Surfacing
Average cost: £110–£130 per m²
More expensive due to specialist materials
Can rise further with intricate edging or colour blends
If you want a decorative driveway that stands out, but also cost less than you think, pattern imprinted concrete may offer better value overall.
Durability and Lifespan
Both surfaces are long-lasting when installed by professionals, but they behave differently over time.
Pattern Imprinted Concrete
Strong, solid slab with no movement
Needs resealing every 3–5 years
Built to last with proper maintenance
Resin-Bound
Flexible surface, resists light cracking
Porous, but can become brittle if installed too thin
Prone to fading with UV exposure, especially lighter colours
Repairs are more visible due to stone variation
It takes careful planning and the right installation team to ensure long-term performance for either surface.
Maintenance
Pattern Imprinted Concrete
Needs resealing every few years
Easy to clean with water and detergent
Doesn’t allow weeds or moss through
Strong, smooth, and easy to clean
Resin-Bound
No resealing needed, but may require pressure washing
Organic debris can cause moss if left on the surface
Surface wear may appear uneven over time
A driveway in top condition reflects well on the rest of your property. Maintenance plays a key role in that.
Appearance and Style Options
Pattern Imprinted Concrete
Available in a wide range of colours and textures
Borders and dual-pattern designs add character
Works well with modern and traditional homes
Resin-Bound
Offers a smooth, stone-like finish
Best suited to modern properties
Limited pattern flexibility
More natural look, but less variety in texture
If you want your driveway to stand out, or blend in with natural materials, both options offer
good styling choices — just in different ways.
Drainage and Water Management
This is one of the main functional differences.
Resin-bound surfaces are usually porous, so water can drain through the surface into the sub-base.
Pattern imprinted concrete is sealed and non-permeable, so surface water needs to drain to the sides or into installed channels.
Neither option is “better” — but drainage needs to be handled properly in both cases. That’s why choosing a qualified installer matters.
Final Thoughts
Both resin and pattern imprinted concrete driveways offer attractive finishes with long lifespans. The best choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and how much upkeep you’re happy to do.
Choose pattern imprinted concrete for a bold, decorative finish with wide design flexibility and proven durability.
Choose resin-bound surfacing if you prefer a smooth, natural-looking surface with built-in drainage.
At Drive Tech UK, we specialise in installing strong, long-lasting driveways that add real value to your home. Whether you're upgrading for looks, performance, or both, we're here to help.
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