As time goes by, driveways can deteriorate, and there are numerous reasons for this. One can be weathering, erosion, exposure to contaminants like oil, grease, and more. These can result in cracks, chips, uneven surfaces, and other major or minor issues that can be hazards for those who will be using the driveway. Thus, a need to resurface or replace the driveway arises. The asphalt driveway’s maximum lifespan is 20 years, and your concrete driveway is 25.
The difference between the two may not be apparent to most people. Still, it is essential to decide whether you want to resurface or replace the driveway as there are specific factors that need to be considered. Here are some points of difference between the two:
Replacement
Mainly, replacement is required when your concrete driveway is beyond repair. Resurfacing may be less expensive at the moment for you, in the long run, continually resurfacing will cost more than a new installation of concrete or asphalt. It is also important to note that when more than 25% to 30% of your driveways require repairs. After reaching its maximum years of life, the foundation won’t be as able as before. The pavement will also reduce quality. You may need to call your contractor for a replacement.
Resurfacing is the repair procedure where the top layer is removed and replaced with a new layer. It is done in driveways with less severe problems. One of the advantages you can get from resurfacing is having the ability to extend the usable life of your driveway by 8 to 15 years. However, there will always be a tipping point for resurfacing, like significant issues such as potholes, cracks, and divots which can only be addressed through a replacement.
When the damage is less than 25% to 30%, your driveway might just need resurfacing. To help you notice how small damages look, here are some of the signs to see. Cracks are smaller than a quarter-inch wide. The foundation is still sound and stable. And then, holes in the gaps are shallow. If given attention immediately, you can save this from further damages. Resurfacing concrete driveway costs you less money and less trouble.
Costs of Different Driveway Services
Asphalt Driveway Resurfacing Cost
The cost of resurfacing an asphalt driveway is approximately $2.25 per square foot. It is a fraction of the price of installing a new driveway. Additional fees apply when opting for the driveway resurfacing concrete cost with patterns and colors. Usually, it is around $4 to $8 per square foot.
Asphalt Driveway Replacement Cost
Replacing your driveway can cost $2 up to $5 per square foot. Replacement costs are more expensive than resurfacing although these prices can vary per region and per contractor.
Concrete Driveway Replacement Cost
Installation for a new concrete driveway can range from $5 to $7 per square foot if it is only a plain gray concrete driveway. However, concrete driveways with decorative colors and patterns is way cheaper. The concrete resurfacing cost per square foot ranges from $8 to $18.
Concrete Driveway Resurfacing Cost
Concrete resurfacing costs also vary depending on the decorative patterns, colors, and finishes. Commonly, it costs $3 to $10 per square foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes as it updates and provides better protection to your driveway.
An economical way to redo a driveway is to use aggregate (gravel). This then is followed by asphalt, concrete, and paving stones.
For a concrete driveway, it lasts 25 to 35 years. A driveway should be replaced sooner or later during these time periods.
- Remove debris, algae, and weeds on the driveway.
- Fill in large cracks with an elastomeric crack filler.
- With a two-inch putty knife, spread the material evenly on the crack
- As for eroded areas, use a paste-like trowel-grade crack filler
- With a wide putty knife, distribute it to the eroded surfaces
- Using a trowel, flatten the surfaces, blending them to the edges
- After drying out the crack fillers, mix the driveway resurfacer well
- Apply the resurfacing material on the surface.
- Reseal the driveway.
