Resin vs Block Paving: Which Handles UK Winters Better?

When winter arrives in the UK, driveways face months of cold mornings, constant dampness, and repeated freeze–thaw cycles that quietly test the strength of every surface. Homeowners often assume a driveway performs the same way all year round, but winter reveals weaknesses that go unnoticed in warmer months. Cracks widen, blocks shift, puddles appear, and surfaces that looked perfectly fine in September can show visible wear by February.

This is why many homeowners reconsider their driveway material before the cold season begins. Resin and block paving are two of the most popular choices in the North East, but they behave very differently in winter. Understanding how each one handles frost, moisture, and temperature changes can help you make a confident long-term decision.

How UK Winters Impact Driveway Surfaces

Before comparing the two materials, it helps to understand what winter actually does to a driveway. Temperature fluctuations cause the underlying ground to expand and contract, and water plays a major role in this movement.

When water penetrates the surface and freezes, it expands — forcing apart joints and creating pressure beneath the driveway. Over time, this leads to sinking, lifting, cracks, and surface wear. Heavy rain can also overwhelm poor drainage systems, leaving standing water that accelerates deterioration.

Some materials cope well with this natural movement; others need more maintenance or careful installation to stay stable.

Resin Driveways in Winter

Resin-bound systems have become a popular choice for homeowners wanting a low-maintenance, modern surface. Winter performance is one of the main reasons behind their growing popularity.

Resin is naturally flexible, which makes it more forgiving during cold weather. When the ground moves slightly — as it often does during freeze–thaw cycles — the resin surface can accommodate minor shifts without cracking. This flexibility is a major advantage compared with more rigid materials.

Resin is also permeable, meaning water drains through the tiny gaps between stones rather than sitting on the surface. By reducing standing water, resin prevents the frost damage commonly caused by water freezing and expanding on top of the driveway. This permeability also reduces the risk of slipping during icy weather.

However, resin is not completely maintenance-free. In winter, moss and algae can develop quicker due to low sunlight and frequent dampness. Regular cleaning helps preserve traction and appearance. Resin is also sensitive to surface contaminants, so winter debris such as leaves should be cleared promptly to avoid staining.

Block Paving in Winter

Block paving has long been a favourite for its aesthetic versatility and ability to complement both traditional and modern homes. But winter can affect it in ways resin doesn’t.

Block paving performs well in winter — if the sub-base is strong and the drainage is well-designed. Because the surface is made up of individual blocks, water can drain between the joints, reducing the chance of frost damage. However, these joints also make block paving more vulnerable if sand levels drop or weeds push through.

The biggest winter issue for block paving is movement. If the foundation wasn’t compacted correctly or if the driveway sits on clay soil that swells in winter, blocks can lift or sink. Freeze–thaw cycles exaggerate these movements, causing rocking blocks or uneven patches that become more noticeable as winter progresses.

Block paving is also more prone to moss growth during damp, cold weather, especially in shaded areas.

Despite this, block paving remains very durable when maintained properly. Re-sanding joints in autumn, checking drainage routes, and replacing any loose blocks before winter all help extend its lifespan and improve performance in cold weather.