Resin patios and paths in Stockton

What resin-bound actually is

It's small natural stones mixed with a clear resin, then trowelled out flat. Once it's cured, the stones are locked together with tiny gaps between them, so rainwater soaks straight through instead of sitting on the surface.

Don't mix it up with resin-bonded, which is loose stone scattered onto a layer of resin. That's rougher underfoot, can shed stones and isn't porous. For a garden patio or path, resin-bound is what you want.

Why people choose it

• No joints to weed or re-point.
• Porous, as long as the base underneath lets water through or it has somewhere to go.
• Any shape you like. Curves and circles are no harder than straight lines.
• Lots of stone blends, from silvers and greys to golds and bronzes.
• Smooth and level, which helps with pushchairs, wheelchairs and anyone a bit unsteady on their feet.

Getting it laid right

Resin is only as good as the base and the conditions on the day:

1. A sound base. Usually a new porous base, or existing concrete or tarmac if it's solid, level and not cracked.
2. Edging to hold the resin in and give a sharp line against the lawn or borders.
3. UV-stable resin. Cheaper resins can yellow in sunlight, so ask for a UV-stable (aliphatic) one.
4. Dry weather and the right depth. Resin needs dry conditions to cure, so the weather has a say in when it can go down.

Where it works best

Resin is great for winding garden paths, small courtyards, borders round trees and patios with an unusual shape. On the narrower plots behind many Stockton and Thornaby terraces, a resin path can make a tight space feel neater. If you want the look of individual slabs, porcelain or sandstone are a better fit. Resin paths also team up well with stone steps.

Questions people ask