Resurfacing a Concrete Driveway: Options, Costs & Results

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Breathe New Life into a Tired Driveway

Driveways take a daily beating from cars, weather, and time. If yours is cracked, stained, or starting to crumble, resurfacing can restore it without ripping everything out. From overlay systems to polished concrete and dyed finishes, there are cost-effective ways to give your driveway a second life — with less mess and downtime than full replacement.

When Is Resurfacing the Right Choice?

  • Cracks are cosmetic, not structural
  • The base slab is still sound (no movement)
  • You want a fresh, modern finish without full removal
  • You’re prepping for resale or adding curb appeal

Driveway Resurfacing Methods Compared

Method Best For Thickness Finish Options
Concrete Overlay Lightly cracked or faded surfaces 10–25mm Stamped, brushed, coloured, trowelled
Polished Concrete Driveways with smooth, level base 0–2mm Matte, satin, gloss, natural grey or dyed
Colour Recoat Faded or stained decorative concrete 1–2mm (coating only) Colour restoration or change
Full Slab Replacement Structural failure, major heave or sinkage 100–150mm New base, any finish

Overlay Resurfacing

  • More affordable than full replacement
  • Less disruption and faster install
  • Plenty of modern design options
  • Not suitable if the base is badly damaged
  • Thickness adds slight height (may affect thresholds)

Full Replacement

  • Resets the base and removes all existing issues
  • Ideal for sloped driveways or poor drainage
  • Works with any surface finish or reinforcement
  • Much more expensive and time-consuming
  • Disposal and access costs add up fast

Top 3 Driveway Issues Resurfacing Can Fix

Not every driveway needs replacing — resurfacing can fix most visual and usability problems when the structure is still intact.

1

Cracked or Flaking Surface

Small cracks and surface spalling don’t always mean replacement. Overlay or polish systems can smooth and seal these areas for a like-new finish.

2

Faded or Stained Appearance

Driveways lose their colour over time. Recoating or dyeing during resurfacing brings back a deep, clean finish — and adds curb appeal.

3

Low Grip or Poor Drainage

Overlay finishes like broomed or stamped concrete improve traction. Slope adjustments and joint repair during resurfacing also improve water flow.

✔ Step-by-Step: How We Resurface a Driveway

  1. 1

    Assess the Existing Surface

    We check for structural issues, ground movement, moisture ingress, or signs of slab failure. Only sound concrete is suitable for resurfacing — if it's too far gone, we’ll recommend a full replacement.

  2. 2

    Repair & Prep

    Cracks are cleaned and filled. We mechanically grind or clean the surface to ensure strong bonding. Primers or slurry coats may be applied depending on the overlay system.

  3. 3

    Apply Overlay or Polish

    The resurfacing product — whether trowelled overlay, broom finish, or polish — is installed according to design and performance needs. Edges and joints are handled with care for clean lines.

  4. 4

    Cure, Seal & Protect

    We allow proper curing time, then seal the surface for stain resistance and durability. A final clean ensures your driveway is ready for foot and vehicle traffic — usually within 2–5 days.

FAQs

Can you resurface any concrete driveway?
Not always — the existing concrete must be structurally sound. If the slab is crumbling, heavily cracked, or sinking, replacement is usually the better option. A proper assessment is the first step.
How long does a resurfaced driveway last?
A professionally resurfaced driveway can last 10–20 years or more with proper sealing and maintenance. The lifespan depends on the method used, climate conditions, and daily wear.
What finishes can I choose when resurfacing?
You can choose from polished, trowelled, brushed, stamped, or dyed finishes. Many homeowners opt for light grey, charcoal, or stone-textured overlays to match the house style and boost curb appeal.
Is resurfacing cheaper than a new driveway?
Yes — resurfacing is typically 30–50% cheaper than full replacement, with less disruption and waste. It’s ideal if the base is still in good condition but the surface is worn, stained, or outdated.

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