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Lay a resin-bonded patio.
Aggregate bonded to existing concrete — gives patio a fresh resin-bound look without ripping it up.
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Aggregate dislodging
— happens if resin was too thin or aggregate too heavy. Sweep off loose stone for 1–2 weeks after install.
Patchy texture
— uneven aggregate distribution during scatter.
UV yellowing
— cheap resin again. Use UV-stable products.
Slipperiness in moss
— annual cleaning needed in damp areas.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and a typical week-by-week schedule.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Sub-base + tarmac/concrete base (per m²)Existing surface saves cost
£30–£50/m²
Resin + aggregate (per m²)Thinner than bound
£15–£30/m²
Labour (per m²)Faster than bound
£20–£35/m²
New install total (20 m²)Including new base
£1.2k–£2.2k
Overlay on existing base (20 m²)Lifecycle refurbishment
£700–£1.4k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
Timeline
30 m² patio install · week by week
Typical
4 phases · 2 wk
4 phases · 2 wk
W1
W2
Lift + excavate
Sub-base + screed
Lay slabs
Joint + clean
!
Schedule slips on dependencies — pad each phase by 10–20% for real-world delays.
At a glance
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Patios explained
Resin bonded is the textured, rougher cousin of resin bound — a thin layer of resin laid down, then aggregate scattered on top while wet. The result is a non-slip, textured surface that's noticeably cheaper than resin bound but doesn't drain through itself. This guide covers what resin bonded actually costs in 2026, when to choose it over resin bound, and the install detail.
It's often confused with resin bound — the names are similar but the products are quite different. Get this wrong with your installer and you may end up with the wrong finish.
What Does the Work Involve?
- Excavation and 100 mm compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base.
- 40 mm tarmac or concrete base (must be sound and level).
- Resin coat trowelled or rolled onto the base.
- Aggregate scattered onto the wet resin while still tacky.
- Excess aggregate swept off after cure.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sub-base + tarmac/concrete base (per m²) | 30 | 50 | Existing surface saves cost |
| Resin + aggregate (per m²) | 15 | 30 | Thinner than bound |
| Labour (per m²) | 20 | 35 | Faster than bound |
| New install total (20 m²) | 1,200 | 2,200 | Including new base |
| Overlay on existing base (20 m²) | 700 | 1,400 | Lifecycle refurbishment |
Bonded is roughly 30–40% cheaper than bound for the same size patio, but it's not permeable and the surface is rougher.
How Long Does It Take?
- Existing base + overlay: 1–2 days for 20 m².
- New base build-up + overlay: 3–4 days.
- Walkable: 24 hours after aggregate scatter.
DIY or Professional?
Achievable for a DIYer who's worked with resin before, but most owners hire — the resin has a short working time and uneven application shows badly. Specialist contractors are inexpensive enough that DIY rarely saves much.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
- Confirm they understand the difference between bound and bonded — and which you want.
- Ask about the resin brand and its UV stability.
- Discuss aggregate colour and size — typical 2–6 mm range.
- Get the warranty in writing — typically 5–10 years on adhesion.
UK Regulations
- Resin bonded is not permeable — over 5 m² in a front garden needs drainage to a soakaway or permeable adjacent strip.
- Resin bound is the SuDS-compliant alternative if drainage matters.
Common Problems
- Aggregate dislodging — happens if resin was too thin or aggregate too heavy. Sweep off loose stone for 1–2 weeks after install.
- Patchy texture — uneven aggregate distribution during scatter.
- UV yellowing — cheap resin again. Use UV-stable products.
- Slipperiness in moss — annual cleaning needed in damp areas.
- Difficulty patching — small repairs show as colour difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose bonded over bound?
Cheaper, more grippy on slopes, faster to install. Good for utility areas, paths, and budget-conscious patios.
Is bonded as durable as bound?
Slightly less — the thin resin layer can wear in high-traffic areas. 10–15 years is realistic before refresh.
Can I lay bonded over an existing patio?
Yes if the old surface is sound and level. Common as a budget refurbishment of tired concrete or tarmac.
Is it slippery?
No — the aggregate is exposed, providing excellent grip. One of its main selling points.
Does it drain water?
Not through itself — water sheds across the surface to the edges. Plan drainage at the perimeter.
Can I get the same look as resin bound?
No — bonded is visually rougher with exposed aggregate texture. Resin bound is smoother and more architectural.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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