Do resin driveways melt in the summer sun?

Short answer: no. A properly specified, UV-stable resin system doesn’t melt – even on hot Surrey afternoons. But like any surface, extreme heat can make the very top layer a touch more pliable. Good design and sensible use keep it looking sharp.

Resin-bound vs resin-bonded (the simple difference)

• Resin-bound: Stone mixed with clear resin and trowelled smooth. Permeable. Great drainage. Solid day-to-day.
• Resin-bonded: Resin spread, stone scattered on top. Not fully permeable. More resin at the surface, so it can scuff more in heat.

What hot weather actually does

• Surfaces stay firm.
• On the hottest days you may see minor scuffing if you dry-steer (turn the wheel while stationary).
• Fresh, hot tyres can leave light marks that usually weather out.

Why some drives struggle (and how we avoid it)

• Wrong resin: We specify UV-stable systems to resist softening and colour change.
• Too thin: We lay to the right depth for your stone size and traffic.
• Weak base: We build a stable, well-compacted sub-base with correct falls and drainage.
• Very dark blends: Darker surfaces run hotter. We’ll show lighter options for south-facing drives.

Simple summer care

• Don’t dry-steer. Roll the car slightly as you turn.
• Spread point loads. Use pads under motorcycle stands, ladder feet or sharp furniture legs on the very hottest days.
• Respect cure times. We’ll give clear return-to-use guidance on handover.
• Keep it clean. Quick sweep; occasional low-pressure fan-lance wash.

Bound or bonded—what’s best for heat?

• Best all-rounder: Resin-bound (UV-stable, correct depth, solid base).
• More prone to summer scuffing: Resin-bonded (because more resin sits at the surface).
• Bonus: Resin-bound is permeable, so areas dry quicker after summer storms.

Fast answers

Will it go soft in a heatwave?
No. Installed correctly, it stays firm. Avoid dry-steering on the very hottest afternoons.

Can I reduce heat build-up?
Yes. Choose lighter aggregates and keep the surface clean.

Is resin okay for south-facing drives?
Absolutely—specified and built properly, it performs brilliantly.

Next steps

Want straight advice for your resin driveway? Book a quick site visit. We’ll check levels and drainage, talk blends and borders, and give you a clear, fixed quote. Done properly.