Resin driveways have become a favourite among homeowners in Dublin and across Ireland, and for good reason. They’re low-maintenance durable, stylish, have excellent drainage and are weed resistant.
That said, low-maintenance doesn’t mean no-maintenance. To keep your resin driveway looking its best for years to come, a bit of regular TLC goes a long way. In this post, we’ll walk you through how to clean your resin driveway properly, what to avoid, and how often to do it. Let’s get started!
Why Clean a Resin Driveway?
Resin-bound surfaces are non-porous and smooth, which helps prevent weed growth and makes them resistant to stains. However, over time, things like dirt, algae, moss, leaves, oil spills and general grime can start to build up. Not only can this spoil the appearance, but it can also make the surface slippery, especially in wet weather.
Regular cleaning helps:
- Maintain that “just installed” look
- Prevent slips and falls
- Extend the life of your driveway
- Keep colours fresh and vibrant
So, it’s definitely worth giving it some attention every now and then.
The Basics: What You’ll Need
You don’t need anything too fancy to clean your resin driveway. Here’s what we recommend having on hand:
- A stiff broom or brush
- A garden hose or pressure washer (used with care)
- Mild detergent (like washing-up liquid or a pH-neutral floor cleaner)
- A soft-bristle brush or mop for spot cleaning
- Optional: weed killer or moss remover (for occasional use)
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Resin Driveway
1. Clear Loose Debris
Start by sweeping the driveway thoroughly with a stiff broom. You want to get rid of leaves, dust, small stones, and anything else that’s sitting on the surface. This not only tidies things up but also helps prevent scratches during the wash.
2. Give it a Rinse
Use a garden hose to rinse off the surface. If you have a pressure washer, that can work too—but be cautious. Stick to a low pressure setting (ideally under 150 bar) and hold the lance at least 20cm away from the surface. Avoid using a narrow jet or pointing the nozzle too close, as it can damage the resin or dislodge loose stones.
3. Tackle Stains and Algae
Got a patch of green moss or a mysterious oil stain? Here’s how to deal with them:
For algae or moss: Use a diluted moss or algae remover. Make sure it’s safe for resin-bound surfaces (most garden-safe ones will be fine). Apply as directed and rinse thoroughly after.
For oil or grease: First, blot up as much as you can with an absorbent cloth. Then apply a mild detergent and scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse well. If the stain is stubborn, you might need to repeat the process or use a degreaser suitable for resin.
4. Use Soapy Water for General Cleaning
Mix a bucket of warm water with a splash of washing-up liquid or a pH-neutral cleaner. Pour it over the surface and scrub using a soft brush or mop. This will lift any lingering dirt and leave the surface looking fresh.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners—these can damage the resin over time and may discolour the surface.
5. Final Rinse
Once you’ve done your scrubbing, rinse everything down again with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Let it air dry—and that’s it!
How Often Should You Clean A Resin Driveway?
A good rule of thumb is to give your resin driveway a light clean once every month or two and a deeper clean every 6 months or so, depending on the weather and how much foot or car traffic it gets.
In autumn, it’s especially important to clear away fallen leaves before they start to break down and stain the surface. Similarly, after winter, give it a fresh start by removing any built-up moss or grime.
A Few Extra Tips
- Avoid metal shovels or sharp tools when removing ice or debris, as they can scratch the surface.
- Act quickly on spills—the sooner you clean them, the less likely they are to stain.
- Don’t use boiling water to kill weeds; while effective, it can damage the resin. Stick with weed killer or simply pull them out by hand.
- Seal it every few years if recommended by your installer—this can help maintain the finish and add extra protection.
Need a Hand?
If your driveway has seen better days and needs more than a clean, or you’re thinking about getting a new resin driveway installed, we can help. Based right here in Dublin, we specialise in resin-bound driveways and patios that are built to last and look fantastic.
We’re happy to offer advice, quotes, or just a friendly chat about your options.
Give us a call or send us a message today!
Thanks for reading—and happy scrubbing!