Can You Put New Asphalt Over Old Asphalt?

Asphalt is a very sturdy surface but as with anything, age and use will eventually wear it down, requiring you to either get a new surface or install an overlay. Which choice is best for you depends on the current state of your driveway or parking lot as well as your budget. In the meantime, be sure to continue maintaining your surface on a regular basis. Keeping asphalt as healthy as possible will make the process more seamless.

Overlay

Asphalt overlay is an asphalt repair method in which a new layer of asphalt is applied over the existing pavement. Generally, the new layer is at least 1.5 inches in thickness. It’s also known as resurfacing. The existing layers are used as a base and a new layer of asphalt is applied to the surface. Even though the top layer of a driveway may have a worn and cracked appearance it may still have structural integrity beneath. If a solid base remains, then an overlay might be the way to go.

Cost

Assess your budget and determine how much you can spend on resurfacing your asphalt. Typically, resurfacing costs anywhere from $2 to $5 per square foot. The total cost is scope dependant and is affected by geographic locations, size of the driveway or parking lot, condition of the current surface, as well as other factors.

Possible Liabilities of an Overlay

If there are major problems like large potholes or improper drainage the best solution is to remove and replace the whole driveway. An overlay that is applied over an unstable base will end up cracking within a few years of installation—likely during the first winter after the repair is done. If you want to be absolutely sure that you will not have to repair your driveway again in a year or two your best bet is to remove and replace your deteriorating driveway. It’s the best way to remove all of the underlying issues that may have caused the damage in the first place. If your current surface is not draining properly an overly will not solve the issue. More than likely, the driveway will need to be regraded so it can drain water more effectively.

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