Driveway Resurfacing or Full Replacement
Driveway Resurfacing or Full Replacement
Driveway Resurfacing or Full Replacement? Advice from Leading Paving Contractors in Toronto
When your driveway starts to show cracks, crumbling edges, or faded patches, it can be daunting deciding between resurfacing it or having it completely redone. One of the primary questions homeowners ask a paving contractor in Toronto is whether resurfacing or replacement is the better option. Both choices offer advantages and disadvantages and what choice makes sense depends heavily upon several key considerations like its condition and budget.
What is Driveway Resurfacing?
Resurfacing involves adding a fresh coat of asphalt over an existing driveway surface. This process does not penetrate deep into its subbase but instead refreshes only its top layer to give your driveway renewed appearance and function. Resurfacing may provide cost-effective relief if your current driveway shows signs of wear--small cracks, uneven coloring or slight deterioration!
Resurfacing typically takes less time and costs less money than full replacement, often lasting 8-15 years longer in its effects than its alternative. Unfortunately, however, resurfacing doesn't address structural issues directly; so if your driveway suffers from cracks, drainage issues, or base failure it may only provide temporary solutions.
When is Full Driveway Replacement Necessary?
Full replacement refers to stripping out an existing driveway and reconstructing it from scratch, including taking existing material down to its base layer and rebuilding from there. While this approach requires additional labor hours and cost, full replacement provides the most long-term and sustainable solution available, particularly if your current one has suffered severe damage.
Full replacement provides an entirely new foundation and surface, offering structural integrity and an even surface. Although its initial costs may be greater, this solution could ultimately save money in repairs and maintenance expenses over time.
Cost Considerations
Cost can often act as an important factor between resurfacing and replacement driveways in Toronto. On average, resurfacing may cost anywhere from $3-$6 per square foot. However full replacement could range between $8-15 per square foot, depending on materials and site conditions.
As professional paving contractors in Toronto, we recommend getting an in-depth quote before making your decision. Resurfacing may appear attractive because it has lower upfront costs; however, depending on how severe the damage has occurred it might not warrant such investment.
How Weather Impacts Your Driveway
Toronto's climate includes cold winters that cause freezing-thawing cycles which cause water seepage into cracks to freeze, expand, and eventually cause further deterioration of both surface and base material. Without regular maintenance and sealing efforts in place this process may accelerate significantly faster.
Resurfacing may provide temporary protection, provided the foundation remains sound. In cases where weather-related damage has reached deeper layers, replacement should become the ideal solution. Hiring an experienced Toronto paver ensures materials used match local climate conditions for maximum longevity in Toronto and elsewhere.
Signs It's Time for Resurfacing
- Minor surface cracks that don’t go deep
- Fading color or uneven appearance
- Small potholes or worn patches
- No major drainage or sinking issues
- Driveway is 10–15 years old but has a strong base
Signs It's Time for Full Replacement
- Multiple deep cracks or alligator cracking
- Large potholes or sagging areas
- Drainage issues or pooling water
- Base erosion or shifting
- Driveway is more than 20 years old
Choosing the Right Paving Contractor in Toronto
Whether you decide to resurface or replace your driveway, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. A reputable paving contractor in Toronto will assess your driveway’s condition, provide a detailed quote, explain all your options, and carry out the work with quality materials and craftsmanship.
Look for contractors with:
- Positive local reviews and testimonials
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Experience with Toronto weather and soil conditions
- Transparent pricing and warranties
- A portfolio of completed projects
Requesting a site visit is crucial since they can assess your driveway before providing advice for making informed decisions for the well-being of both you and your home.
King Star Paving is Ontario’s premier asphalt paving contractor serving GTA. With years of experience in the industry, our team of skilled professionals are committed to excellence in every project we undertake. Contact us for a free quote.
