Driveways are some of the most frequently used aspects of a property. They’re used at the beginning and end of almost every day, and the wear and tear they regularly receive can be easy to overlook.
Unfortunately, with all the terms surrounding the improvement of a driveway, from driveway sealcoating and striping to repair and resurfacing, it can be hard to determine the best way to rectify your driveway appropriately.
In this post from the Lone Star Paving blog, follow along as we discuss every aspect of driveway resurfacing, from what it is to how it works—so that you can, at the very least, know when it’s time to consider driveway resurfacing wherever you live.
What Is Driveway Resurfacing?
Driveway resurfacing is a fairly modern driveway repair job that allows both businesses and homeowners to restore their driveways and parking lots with dramatic effect. By covering an existing driveway with a new layer of material—such as asphalt or concrete— driveway resurfacing can protect your driveway from wear and tear, extend the life of your driveway, and make it look brand new.
How Does Driveway Resurfacing Work?
Driveway resurfacing typically involves removing debris from your driveway, patching any cracks or potholes, and then adding a new layer of asphalt, concrete, or other material.
Generally speaking, resurfacing starts with a thorough wash—both to remove any dirt, debris, algae, and weeds, and to ensure that whatever goes on after sticks. If you hire a professional paver to resurface your driveway, they’ll generally start by removing weeds and debris first—often with a handheld instrument like a screwdriver—followed by dusting off debris with a wire brush, broom, and/or leaf blower. They might even cap it off with a pressure washer to ensure all the dirt’s been removed.
The next step is to fill in the cracks with filler and “flatten the bead” with a putty knife or trowel, followed by cleaning any oil stains if there are any. Once your driveway is “repaired,” the final step is to resurface the pavement using a resurfacer. Resurfacers will contain material that compliments the color and texture of your existing driveway—such as concrete or asphalt—while also containing polymers to ensure that the mixture sticks to your pavement.
From there, “resurfacing” is simply a matter of pouring and spreading the resurfacer onto your driveway to ensure a smooth and seamless surface, and letting it dry. After 48-72 hours, the newly resurfaced driveway will be ready for use.
Because resurfacing costs a lot less than replacing a driveway completely, and since it helps protect the slab underneath, both asphalt and concrete resurfacing are two highly sought types of driveway repair.
What Are The Benefits of Driveway Resurfacing?
Driveway resurfacing can provide a number of benefits, including improving the appearance of your driveway, increasing the lifespan of your driveway, and improving the safety of your driveway. It can also help to prevent cracks and potholes from forming.
How Long Does It Take To Resurface A Driveway?
The duration of a driveway resurfacing project can vary depending on the size, complexity, and condition of your driveway. Generally, a resurfacing job can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
How Long Does Driveway Resurfacing Last?
Both asphalt and concrete resurfacing are specifically made to be highly resistant to gas and oil (in the event of spills) as well as ultraviolet sun rays and extreme temperatures. Higher-quality resurfacers will also have sand or other granular substances added, to increase traction and prevent accidents. That said, while driveway resurfacing can be completed in less than 24 hours, the new layer on top of your driveway can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years. Not only that, but resurfacing can increase the longevity of the slab underneath, saving you money as well.
What Type Of Maintenance Is Required After Driveway Resurfacing?
Once your driveway has been resurfaced, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. This includes cleaning the surface of your driveway regularly, filling in cracks and holes as needed, and resealing your driveway every few years.
How Much Does Driveway Resurfacing Cost?
driveway resurfacing is a highly personalized project with costs that vary depending on the material used (be it asphalt or concrete), the size of the job, and local labor rates.
At Lone Star Paving, Austin’s foremost driveway resurfacing company, we provide estimates for all your paving projects, big and small. You can contact us for a FREE on-site consultation to get a custom estimate for your driveway repair project.
Signs You Need To Have Your Driveway Resurfaced
There are a number of signs that it may be time to resurface your driveway. Isolated cracks and holes can usually be repaired through one-off patches and fill-ins. On the other hand, if your entire driveway has been compromised, or its structural integrity is starting to deteriorate, it’s probably time to resurface it.
One of the telltale signs that it’s time to resurface your driveway is unevenness, like sloping areas or bumps in certain areas of the driveway. Things like large, deep potholes (larger than 1 inch deep), or alligator cracks (thin cracks that resemble alligator scales) are other signs that your driveway may be due for resurfacing repair.
Pooling water may be a giveaway too—which can eat at your driveway as well as the ground underneath it, causing structural damage to your pavement.
Finally, when a driveway reaches twenty years of age, it is usually time for surfacing to avoid issues before they start happening in spades. This is why it can be helpful to track when your driveway was installed so that you know when it may be time for resurfacing.
What’s the Best Time to Resurface A Driveway?
While you can technically resurface a driveway at any time, the best time is before the temperature drops below freezing. Rainfall can easily enter spots and cracks, causing them to freeze and expand out, which can often call for a more major driveway repair. Along similar lines, if you need to repair your driveway in any way shape, or form, it is best to get it done before your first snowfall, as it may be more difficult to make repairs when your driveway is covered in snow.
Is Driveway Resurfacing A DIY Job?
Driveway resurfacing can be done as a DIY project, but it is recommended that you seek the help of a professional resurfacing contractor if you are not experienced in this type of work. Not only does driveway resurfacing require the right tools and materials, but it also takes time, as well as a good understanding of the process.
If you don't feel confident doing any aspect of a resurfacing job yourself—from choosing the right materials to prepping the surface—it's best to leave it to the experts. A professional resurfacing contractor will have the right tools, materials, and experience to make sure the job is done right. Moreover, they can also provide advice on other aspects of driveway maintenance, such as drainage control, that may be necessary to ensure the job is done correctly.
Get Your Driveway Resurfaced in Austin!
Is your parking lot or driveway in rough shape? Does it have badly eroded cracks or spots, or look distorted, twisted, or warped throughout?
At Lone Star Paving Company, our team of resurfacing experts has performed countless driveway resurfacing projects in Austin, Belton, and San Antonio. No matter how large or small your project, we have the equipment, expertise, and attention to detail to make even the most dilapidated driveway appear entirely new. Plus, our experienced team of professional pavers is on hand to answer all your questions, discuss your options, and provide an estimate for the cost of the job. With our top-notch materials and quality service, you can trust us to get your driveway resurfacing job done right the first time.
To learn more about our driveway resurfacing services in Austin, give us a call or contact us online today!
