Resurface Concrete Driveway... When and When Not To

Is it right for you? Resurface concrete driveway or tear it out and replace it?...

You don't wan't throw money away on something that's doomed to fail, at the same time the expense of replacing a concrete driveway may be unneccessary.

Large, opened cracks in driveway... Not a good candidate for resurfacing.	Discolored, scaling driveway... Still structurally sound and suitable to be resurfaced.

Resurfacing is an economical way making look new again that's a fraction of the cost of replacement. Not only that, you can get a colored or decorative finish too really boost that curb appeal.

Unfortunately it doesn't work on every driveway and it can be difficult to conclude whether or not your driveway is a good candidate for resurfacing. It all boils down to structural soundness. Resurfacing material is only as strong as what you put it on.

When Not To Resurface Concrete Driveway

Here are the most common problems with concrete that would make resurfacing a bad idea.

• Sunken sections of the driveway... This indicates a problem with the subgrade resulting inconsistent or excessive settlement. If this has happened, all is not lost. You may consider hydraulic mud jacking to "pump up" the sunken concrete.
  
  
• Heaved or raised sections... Usually caused by "frost heave" and also a sign of subgrade problems. Unfortunately it can't be corrected without breaking out the driveway first.
  
  
• Large Cracks... If they have opened up to become more than just hairline cracks and/or there is vertical displacement, then there is some subgrade shifting or erosion going on underneath. Hairline cracks may be ok, but anytime you resurface over cracks in exterior concrete, they are almost guaranteed to come through the overlay as well. It's just a matter time.

When Resurfacing is an Option

Now let's look at some common problems with structurally sound concrete that resurfacing can solve.

• Scaling... Results from a weak surface. If you blast the driveway with a high power pressure washer and remove any part of the surface that might be thinking of coming loose, then a new topcoat will last.
  
  
• Pitting... Normally caused by improper salt use or road salt. This is just a cosmetic issue and not a sign of structural deterioration.
  
  
• Discoloration... Although there are many different causes, resurfacing can provide a brand new, uniform appearance.
  
  

If you're just not sure whether or not it is a good idea to resurface concrete driveway, consult some contractors and get a few opinions. They can also provide you with some options on colors, textures, and patterns for your new driveway.