Should You Resurface or Replace Your Driveway?

A new driveway can last for up to 20 years with proper maintenance. Replacing the driveway is like going back in time, and while the initial cost is higher than applying patches or resurfacing, it is a long-term investment. With early detection and repair of any cracks or crevices that develop, your new driveway could be virtually problem-free for another 20 years or more. Our asphalt contractors will highly recommend replacement if your asphalt driveway or parking lot cannot be repaired.

While resurfacing may be less expensive in the short term, there will eventually come a point where the cost of repairs will exceed the cost of the new asphalt installation. Since asphalt pavements typically last 20 years, you'll want to consider replacing them once they reach the end of their lifespan. On the other hand, road resurfacing is an extension of asphalt maintenance. It can increase the life of the existing pavement and give it a new look.

Resurfacing is a good option if your driveway is not badly damaged and was installed in the last 15 years. If your driveway has many small cracks that are more than a quarter of an inch wide and penetrate deep into the surface, then resurfacing is ideal as it can improve the structural integrity and durability of your existing driveway. Homeowners who want to sell their homes choose to repave to increase the attractiveness of the property. It is a much cheaper and faster alternative to replacing the driveway.

Asphalt resurfacing is usually a viable option for your pavement, but replacement is necessary especially in severe situations. Although it's more expensive, it's also twice the lifespan of your driveway or parking lot. It allows you to “start from scratch” with a surface free of any surface-level defects or fundamental deficiencies. While resurfacing is a great option to give your driveway this new look, if your driveway structure is not solid, repaving efforts could do more harm than good. The resurfacing of your pavement depends on the repair method, and if there are holes and cracks in the entrance of your house, they will come to the surface when re-paving if not properly fixed.

If you're thinking about repaving or replacing your asphalt surface, keep in mind that repaving is also great for your pavement and can save you some money (if the foundation of your asphalt driveway or parking lot is structurally sound).