The Pros & Cons of Resin-Bound Pavement vs. Concrete

Jim Robinson • April 23, 2024

Choosing the right material for your public works project isn’t a decision to take lightly. It’s an investment in the durability, aesthetics, and environmental impact of the local community. While many want to stick with the materials they know, others are looking for intuitive ways to further their urban communities. Follow along as we dive into the pros and cons of resin-bound pavement and concrete to determine which is better for your project.

Resin-Bound Pavement Under the Spotlight

The Benefits of Resin-Bound Pavement

Resin-bound pavement shines bright when it comes to aesthetics and environmental responsibility. Its permeable nature allows water to trickle through, decreasing the risk of flooding and aiding in groundwater replenishment and lessening the heat island effect. The variety of colors and patterns available makes resin-bound paving a custom creation that you can truly make your own.

Its resiliency against UV degradation also offers a long-term solution that requires minimal maintenance, Finally, it is less expensive than metal grates, providing an alternative for defending tree bases against weeds and foot traffic.

Assessing Traditional Concrete

Concrete Pros

Concrete is the timeless template that many pavement materials are most often compared to. With its brute sturdiness and relatively simple installation, concrete has been the go-to for public works projects for generations.

Cracks in the Façade

Despite its historical use, concrete is not without its flaws. One significant drawback is its non-porous nature, contributing to urban heat island effects and water run-off issues. The tendency to crack over time, coupled with labor-intensive maintenance, brings its long-term cost-effectiveness into question. Its inherently high carbon footprint is a downside that modern townships can’t ignore.

The Verdict

Now that we’ve delved into the pros and cons of resin-bound pavement and concrete, it’s time to determine whether it’s right for you. While concrete remains a valid pavement option for certain projects, resin-bound pavement emerges as the more forward-looking, sustainable choice. Concrete, with its growing list of drawbacks, now seems less appealing, especially in the face of resin-bound pavement’s evident benefits. When searching for a material for a public works project, the long-term ecological impact, maintenance requirements, and life-cycle costs speak volumes in favor of resin-bound options.

Surfacing With Resin-Bound Pavement

Recommendations for paving decisions are not one-size-fits-all. Consider the location, projected usage, and environmental sensitivity of the area in question. Resin-bound pavement is ideal for urban renewal projects, footpaths, and areas where aesthetics and sustainability are paramount.

For those long-trodden routes and heavy traffic areas, concrete might still hold its place. However, the shift toward a more environmentally mindful approach suggests that even these areas could benefit from a makeover with resin-bound systems.

Resin-bound pavement isn’t just another material; it’s the future we’re driving toward. With this understanding, public works professionals can pave the way for a sustainable and beautiful urban landscape. We at Rockpave commit ourselves to providing the perfect set of materials for your particular project. Our permeable resin-bound surfacing is the ideal way to improve the functionality and performance of paved surfaces while minimizing environmental impacts. Reach out to us today to learn more.

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Resin Bound Tree Pit Surrounds

By Jim Robinson • September 9, 2025

Resin Bound Tree Pits: The Smarter Way to Protect and Showcase Urban Trees In towns and cities everywhere, urban planners face the same challenge: how to protect tree roots while keeping public spaces clean, attractive, and safe. Traditional solutions—like loose gravel, soil, or metal grilles—often fall short. That’s where resin bound tree pits come in. What is a Resin Bound Tree Pit? A resin bound tree pit is a surfacing system that uses a blend of natural stone aggregates bound together with a clear, UV tolerant resin. Installed around the base of a tree, it creates a strong, permeable, and decorative surface that allows rainwater to drain through while protecting the soil and roots below. Think of it as a breathable shield for urban trees: tough enough to withstand foot traffic, but porous enough to support healthy root growth. Why Choose Resin Bound for Tree Pits? Permeability for Healthy Trees The resin bound surface is fully porous, meaning water and air can still reach the roots. This promotes long-term tree health and reduces the risk of waterlogging. Cleaner, Safer Surfaces Unlike loose gravel, resin bound surfaces don’t scatter, sink, or create trip hazards. In fact they help to eliminate trip hazards! They provide a smooth, stable finish—ideal for high-footfall areas. Aesthetic Appeal With a wide choice of natural stone colors, resin bound tree pits can complement surrounding paving, creating a polished, modern look in public spaces. Durability & Low Maintenance Resin bound surfacing is resistant to weeds, litter build-up, and erosion. It keeps the area around tree bases tidy without constant upkeep. Accessibility Friendly A smooth surface around tree pits is easier to navigate for strollers, wheelchairs, and pedestrians—making public spaces more inclusive. Where Are Resin Bound Tree Pits Used? City sidewalks to reduce tripping hazards and improve walkability Parks and plazas for cleaner, more attractive landscapes Shopping districts where appearance and safety matter Corporate campuses or schools to combine functionality with visual appeal A Sustainable Choice for Urban Environments! Resin bound systems align with modern sustainability goals. By ensuring stormwater naturally drains into the ground, they help prevent flooding and reduce strain on drainage systems. Combined with their long service life, a very competitive price point, they’re a future-proof investment for greener, smarter cities. Final Thoughts If you are considering the use of resin bound for your tree pits, don't just choose any resin bound product, choose one that is time tested, data driven and will sustain the demands of a harsh city environment. A good resin bound product will have similar strengths to concrete yet it will be completely pervious. Resin bound tree pits are more than just a neat landscaping detail—they’re a practical solution that supports tree health, improves safety, and enhances the look of urban spaces. If you’re planning a streetscape project, commercial landscape, or public park, resin bound surfacing could be the perfect choice for both form and function.