Asphalt Resurfacing in Lake Charles, LA

Asphalt resurfacing places a new layer of hot-mix asphalt over an existing surface. When the old pavement is gray, rough and cracked but still firmly supported, resurfacing gives you a new surface without paying to rebuild the base. HomeGuide notes an overlay typically saves 20 to 30 percent over full replacement and puts driveway resurfacing at about $3 to $7 per square foot. The catch: an overlay mirrors what is under it, so the base has to be sound.

Good candidates

• Faded, oxidized, raveling surface
• Mostly narrow cracks
• Few or no soft spots
• Drainage that already works

Poor candidates

• Widespread alligator cracking
• Ruts and soft spots
• Areas that hold water
• Storm-damaged base

In those cases, cracks reflect through within a year or two. Failed areas must be cut out and rebuilt first, and if that is most of the surface, replacement is the better answer.

Managing height

Every overlay raises the surface. At a garage slab, sidewalk, curb or inlet, that extra height can trap water or leave a lip. We mill the edges and transitions so the new surface meets them flush and drainage paths stay intact.

The process

We repair failed areas with full-depth patches, fill cracks, mill transitions, apply a tack coat so the layers bond, then place and roll the new layer. Lots are restriped once the surface is ready.

After the storms

Pavement that went through Laura, Delta or a big flood needs careful testing before resurfacing. Water can wash fines out of the base without visible damage on top. We probe before recommending an overlay.

How long it lasts

On a sound base with good drainage and regular sealing, an overlay can last many years. On a failing base it can crack within a year.

Resurfacing lots

For commercial lots, resurfacing is often the most cost-effective way to renew the whole surface at once. We patch failed areas, mill around inlets, curbs and entrances so drainage still works, then pave in phases and restripe, including accessible spaces to the 2010 ADA Standards.

A quick test

If most of the surface is firm, resurfacing makes sense. If more than about a third has failed base, replacement usually costs less over the life of the pavement. We explain our reasoning in writing.

Resurfacing versus sealcoating

Sealcoat protects a sound surface but adds no strength. Resurfacing adds a new structural layer. If your surface is rough and raveling, sealcoat will not fix that; resurfacing will.

Resurfacing timeline

A typical driveway resurfacing takes one to three days including repairs and milling. Lots are done in phases. New asphalt should cure three to six months before sealcoating.

Cost comparison

HomeGuide lists driveway resurfacing at $3 to $7 per square foot against $5 to $12 or more for new asphalt. On a 500-square-foot driveway, that difference can be meaningful, as long as the base supports it.