Is resin bound paving slippery?

It's a common misconception that resin bound paving becomes slippery when wet. In reality, professionally installed resin bound surfaces are designed to provide excellent grip and drainage, making them suitable for driveways, footpaths and public spaces.
Benefits of porous paving

One of the most common questions we hear is: ‘Is resin bound paving slippery when it gets wet?’ The short answer is no.

In fact, when properly installed, resin bound paving often provides better grip and drainage performance than many traditional surfacing materials.

In this article, we separate fact from fiction and explore why resin bound paving continues to be one of the safest and most practical surfacing solutions available.

The myth: Resin bound paving is slippery when it rains

Many people assume that because resin bound paving has a smooth appearance, it must become slippery in wet conditions.

This misconception often comes from confusing resin bound paving with polished stone, painted surfaces or poorly installed resin systems.

The reality: Resin bound paving is designed to be slip resistant

The natural aggregates used within the surface create texture underfoot, providing grip for pedestrians and vehicles.

Unlike smooth concrete or paving slabs, resin bound systems retain the natural texture of the stone while creating a durable, seamless finish.

This makes resin bound paving suitable for:

  • Driveways
  • Footpaths
  • Public spaces
  • Parks and gardens
  • Schools
  • Healthcare environments
  • Commercial developments

Here are three myth busting facts about resin bound paving:

#1. Water doesn’t sit on the surface

One of the biggest reasons surfaces become slippery is standing water. Resin bound paving is permeable, allowing rainwater to pass through the surface and into the underlying structure. This means there is:

  • Less puddles and standing water
  • Lower risk of surface water build up
  • Imprived drainage performance

In many cases, resin bound paving provides better wet-weather performance than concrete, asphalt or traditiona paving.

#2. Less moss and algae build-up

Like any external surface, moss and algae can develop if an area is poorly maintained or permanently shaded.

However, because resin bound paving has no joints and excellent drainage, it is generally less prone to moss and weed growth than block paving.

Simple maintenance such as sweeping and occasional cleaning helps keep the surface looking and performing at its best.

#3. Resin bound surfacing is perfect for slopes

Resin bound paving is regularly installed on sloping driveways, access routes and pedestrian pathways throughout the UK.

The key is ensuring the surface is designed and installed correctly using the appropriate aggregate blend and resin system.

To conclude

Properly installed resin bound paving is designed to provide grip, excellent drainage and year-round performance. And is therefore, not slippery when wet.

Its combination of textured aggregates, permeability and durability makes it a popular choice for driveways, footpaths, schools, healthcare facilities and public spaces across the UK.

If you’re looking for a surface that is attractive, low-maintenance and practicle in all weather conditions, resin bound paving remains one of the best options available.

About HMS

HMS has more than 25 years’ unrivalled trading history in providing high quality resin based surfacing treatments for Highways England, Main Contractors, Local Authorities, National Home Builders and private individuals.

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