Tired of that cracked, stained concrete driveway but dread the high cost of ripping it up and pouring new concrete? Concrete driveway resurfacing offers a budget-friendly facelift that can restore the appearance and function of your existing driveway.
Resurfacing involves applying a thin decorative coating over the top of your driveway to cover up imperfections, change the colour or texture, and protect it from further wear and tear. Unlike a full concrete replacement where the old slab has to be demolished and hauled away before the new pour can happen, resurfacing is less invasive, faster, and costs a fraction of the price.
The average total project cost to resurface an average-sized driveway can range from $3,000-$4,500, compared to $17,600-$23,200 for ripping up and relaying new concrete. With options like coloured, stamped, stencilled, and exposed aggregate finishes, you can also get way more design flexibility with a resurfaced driveway than just boring grey concrete.
Intrigued by the cost savings? Read on to learn more about exactly what driveway resurfacing entails along with all the popular options and what you can expect to budget for your project.
What is Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing refers to applying a thin decorative layer of concrete or other materials over an existing concrete slab. It transforms the appearance of concrete while preserving the underlying structure.
Rather than tearing up your existing driveway—which can be costly, time-consuming and environmentally-taxing—concrete resurfacing offers a convenient facelift. A coating is used to refresh the look of the concrete, cover up any blemishes, restore traction, and/or incorporate new colours, textures, or designs.
Common resurfacing techniques include:
- Coloured concrete – Integrally-coloured concrete is sprayed/applied over the surface to transform the colour
- Stamped concrete – Textured imprints are stamped into concrete to mimic stone, brick, tile, etc.
- Stencilled concrete – Decorative overlays, patterns, and borders are added on top using stencils
- Exposed aggregate – The top layer reveals decorative rocks and stones for a stylish, multi-toned finish
The process starts by preparing the existing slab, patching any cracks or defects. After the resurfacing materials are skillfully applied by professionals, a protective sealer is added to increase longevity and make cleaning easier. Your driveway gets a fresh new look for a fraction of replacement cost!
Benefits of Resurfacing vs. Replacement
Why choose to resurface your existing concrete rather than completely replace it? Here are some of the biggest incentives:
Cost Savings
The largest motivation for resurfacing is the significant cost difference. Resurfacing only costs $35-$90 per square metre on average, while a full concrete replacement runs $65-$150 per square metre including demolition and prep work.
Faster Timeline
Resurfacing can be completed in as little as 2-3 days since there is no breakup and disposal of old concrete. New pours take at least 7 days to set before they can be used.
More Design Options
Beyond basic grey, resurfacing opens up options for colour, intricate designs, stone or brick looks. Replaced concrete is a single colour unless you pay more for staining.
Lower Environmental Impact
Keeping and refurbishing the existing slab is more eco-friendly than trucking away debris and pouring tons of new concrete.
Resurfacing makes the most practical and financial sense if your current concrete pad is structurally sound but aesthetically displeasing. It saves a slab from an early trip to the landfill.
Popular Resurfacing Options & Costs
When it comes to driveway resurfacing, you have a number of decorative options to transform the look of your concrete. Here are some of the most popular styles and their typical price ranges:
Coloured Concrete
Integrally coloured concrete uses specialised pigments to tint the entire thickness of the resurfacing layer, not just the surface. It lasts longer than paints or stains. Cost is $70-$95 per square metre installed.
Pebblecrete
Tiny aggregates are exposed on the surface to create a decorative, textured finish. It mimics the look of expensive aggregates like granite. Cost ranges $140-$165 per square metre.
Stencilled Concrete
Using custom templates, different colors/designs like brick, stone, tile, are stencilled into the
surface. Cost is $100-$150 per m2.
Stamped Concrete
Patterns are pressed into the drying concrete to mimic materials like slate, limestone, and flagstone with realistic textures. Cost starts around $120 per m2.
The price of your resurfacing project will depend on factors like the size of your driveway, complexity of design, amount of repair work needed, permits required, and contractor rates in your area. Get multiple quotes.
Factors Affecting Cost
When budgeting for a driveway resurfacing project, the total cost can vary quite a bit based on these key factors:
Size of the Driveway
The main driver of cost is the square metre area being resurfaced. Bigger driveways mean more materials and time required. Expect price breaks on large projects.
Amount of Repair Work
If your concrete has major cracks, holes, and defects, repairs will add cost. Smaller flaws can just be covered up.
Special Techniques/Designs
The more intricate the design – multiple colours, patterns, borders – the more you’ll pay for the extra materials, tools, labour.
Regional Variables
Contractor rates for concrete work can vary dramatically depending on your geographical area. Material costs can also fluctuate market-by-market.
While simple colour-only resurfacing may only run you around $50 per m2, opting to replicate cobblestone or hand-laid tile patterns could cost up to $150 per m2. Get apples-to-apples project quotes. And remember larger resurfacing jobs are typically cheaper on a per-metre basis compared to small patio jobs.
Choosing a Resurfacing Company
Not all concrete contractors offer decorative resurfacing services. Be sure you find an experienced pro to deliver the finished design you want. When vetting potential resurfacing companies, ask:
Are you properly licensed for this project?
Licensing requirements can vary based on location and size of the job. Verify all credentials.
Can I see previous examples of your resurfacing work?
Evaluate their portfolio for quality outcomes that match your vision.
Do you carry all required commercial insurance?
General liability and workers compensation should be standard.
What type of warranty do you provide?
Reputable contractors will guarantee their application workmanship for 5-10 years.
Will you provide a detailed, written quote for my specific project?
Avoid anyone giving wishy-washy verbal estimates. Demand quotes are very custom and detailed.
Don’t simply default to the company offering the lowest price or shortest timeline. Look for demonstrated expertise, stellar communication skills and glowing customer references. This helps avoid any disappointment in the quality of your finished decorative driveway.
A Beautiful Driveway Without Breaking the Bank
If your driveway has seen better days, concrete resurfacing gives you the power to restore its looks without the high price tag and hassle of complete replacement. This decorative coating technique allows you to cover imperfections, incorporate new colours or textures, and protect your existing slab for years to come.
Resurfacing costs a fraction compared to demolition and new concrete pouring, saves you time thanks to a faster application, and is also eco-friendly since nothing gets hauled to the landfill. And you’ll gain nearly endless design flexibility to complement your home’s landscape.
Just be sure to pick an experienced, reputable resurfacing company that has successfully delivered results you love for past clients. Demand to see their portfolio and get a detailed written quote customised for the scope of your project.
Ready to give your driveway a budget-conscious makeover? Get the ball rolling by requesting quotes from contractors in your area today! That worn out slab could become your favourite new standout feature with a resurfacing magic touch. Your dream home exterior awaits!