As a general rule, if the cracks in your driveway are less than a quarter of an inch wide, you can get away with repairing the surface. You can then choose to reseal or recondition the entire surface to ensure that the entrance has a uniform appearance. However, if the cracks are larger, it may be necessary to repair or even remove and replace the entrance surface. Pavement of the roadway can be cost-effective as long as the driveway is in good condition.
Resurfacing is best for roadways that are aging or have more than 25% of the surface area covered by minor to moderate damage. If you repave the entire driveway, it will look like new and add several years to its lifespan. You'll get five to 10 more years from the driveway if you re-pave it and follow up with regular maintenance. It is possible to lay a new layer of concrete over the existing driveway or add a layer of sand and embed brick pavers.
Concrete driveway cladding is an option for driveways that are in good condition and do not have large cracks. Repaving can make your driveway look and feel like new for a fraction of the cost of replacing it. If you want to change the material of your input, then that is one consideration why a replacement is the best option. As much as an intricately designed repaved concrete entrance may cost, it will be much less expensive than removing and replacing concrete or paving it with another material.
The age of your driveway, the extent of repairs needed, and your goals for the entrance will help you decide which option is best for you. All necessary patching is done prior to pouring the final topcoat of asphalt, providing structural rehabilitation and the “new view of the driveway” at a fraction of the full replacement cost.
