Resin driveways offer an attractive, durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional paving options. They’re slip-resistant and permeable, and come in a wide range of colours and finishes to suit any property. However, like any outdoor surface, resin driveways are exposed to the elements and can accumulate dirt and stains over time.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to tackle common stains and maintain your resin driveway, ensuring it remains a beautiful, functional part of your property for years to come.
Common stains and how to clean them
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your resin driveway looking its best. A clean driveway enhances your home’s kerb appeal and extends the life of the surface. Here are some top tips for dealing with stains to keep your resin driveway looking as good as new:
Moss
Moss can be a persistent problem on resin driveways, especially in damp, shaded areas. While it might seem harmless, moss can make your driveway slippery. If left unchecked, it can lead to more severe issues.
The best way to deal with moss is to prevent it from growing in the first place. Trim overhanging trees or bushes to reduce shade and increase sunlight exposure. Regular sweeping and cleaning will also help prevent moss from taking hold.
If moss has already established itself on your driveway, you’ll need to take action. Start by scraping off as much of the moss as possible using a stiff brush or a plastic scraper. Be careful not to damage the resin surface.
Once you’ve removed the bulk of the moss, you can treat the area. There are several effective moss killers available on the market. Look for products specifically designed for use on resin surfaces. Alternatively, you can make your own solution using equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the affected area, leave it for a few hours, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Leaves and leaf stains
Fallen leaves might seem harmless, but they can leave stubborn stains on your resin driveway if left unattended.
The easiest way to prevent leaf stains is to sweep your driveway regularly, especially during autumn when leaf fall is heaviest. Use a soft-bristled brush to avoid scratching the resin surface. If you have a lot of trees near your property, you might want to consider investing in a leaf blower for quicker clean-up.
For stubborn leaf stains, mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Apply this to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. For particularly tough stains, you might need to use a specialised resin cleaner. Always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first.
A pressure washer can be an effective tool for cleaning your resin driveway, but it must be used with care. Use a wide-angle nozzle and keep the pressure low to avoid damaging the resin. Start at one end of the driveway and work your way across in a sweeping motion. Be careful not to concentrate the spray in one area for too long.
Oil spills
Oil spills can be one of the most challenging stains to remove from a resin driveway. Quick action is vital to prevent permanent damage.
If you notice a new oil spill, act fast. Cover the spill with an absorbent material like cat litter, sawdust, sand or baking soda. Leave it for several hours or overnight to soak up as much oil as possible. Sweep up the absorbent material and dispose of it properly.
For older oil stains, you’ll need a more aggressive approach. Start by applying a degreaser to the stain and letting it sit for about 20 minutes. Scrub the area with a stiff brush, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. You might need to repeat this process several times for stubborn stains.
There are many degreasers available that are safe for use on resin surfaces. Look for eco-friendly options that won’t harm your plants or lawn. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and safety precautions. Remember to rinse the area thoroughly after using any cleaning product.
Dirty water stains
Dirty water stains can occur when puddles of contaminated water are left to evaporate on your resin driveway. These stains often result from rainwater that has mixed with dirt, debris or pollutants before settling on your driveway. They can also be caused by water runoff from planters or garden beds.
For light stains, a simple solution of warm water and mild dish soap should suffice. Scrub the area gently with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly. For heavier stains, you might need to use a specialist resin cleaner. Apply the cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions, scrub gently and rinse well.
To prevent water stains, ensure your driveway has proper drainage. Address any low spots where water might collect. Consider installing a French drain if water runoff is a persistent problem. Regular cleaning will also help prevent the build-up of dirt and debris that can lead to staining.
Other common stains
Tyre marks can be unsightly on your resin driveway, but they’re usually not too difficult to remove.
For fresh tyre marks, a solution of warm water and dish soap often does the trick. For more stubborn marks, you might need to use a specialised rubber mark remover. Apply the cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
To prevent tyre marks, consider applying a sealant to your resin driveway to create a barrier that makes it harder for rubber to stick to the surface. Also, try to avoid turning your steering wheel while your car is stationary, as this can cause more pronounced tyre marks.
Algae can make your driveway slippery and unsightly. Algae often appears as a green or brown film on your driveway, particularly in damp, shaded areas. It can make the surface slippery when wet.
A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can be effective against algae. Apply the solution, let it sit for about an hour, then scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. For stubborn algae growth, you might need to use a commercial algae remover designed for resin surfaces.
And if you have pets, you might occasionally find yourself dealing with pet stains on your resin driveway if they use it to relieve themselves.
For fresh stains, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. For older stains, use a mixture of water and white vinegar or a pet odour neutraliser. Apply the solution, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For stubborn odours, you might need to use a cleaner designed for pet stains.
To prevent pet stains, consider training your pets to use a specific area of your garden for their business. If this isn’t possible, try to rinse any accidents off your driveway as soon as they occur.
General resin driveway maintenance tips
Establish a regular cleaning schedule for your resin driveway. A weekly sweep and a monthly thorough clean can go a long way in preventing stains and maintaining the appearance of your driveway.
Sealing your resin driveway can help protect it from stains and make cleaning easier. Consider resealing your driveway every 2-3 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
While it might be tempting to use strong chemicals for tough stains, these can damage the resin surface. Stick to mild, pH-neutral cleaners and always test new products first.
How can Buffalo Driveways help?
Maintaining a clean resin driveway doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With regular care and prompt attention to spills and stains, you can keep your driveway looking its best for years to come. Prevention is always easier than cure. Regular sweeping, proper drainage and quick clean-up of spills will save you time and effort in the long run.
Buffalo Driveways is an expert in laying resin-bound driveways across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and beyond. With over 500 happy customers (and counting), we take pride in helping people develop the space around their homes with sensible, long-lasting and environmentally friendly investments.
For more information about how we install resin driveways and what we can do to help you maintain yours, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us using the form below. Alternatively, call us on 01773 712288 or email us at sales@buffalodriveways.co.uk.