Asphalt resurfacing, also called an overlay, means placing a new layer of hot mix asphalt, usually 1.5 to 2 inches thick, over existing pavement that still has a solid base. It fixes a worn, gray, cracked surface and gives you a smooth black finish for roughly half the cost of full replacement. It only works when the base underneath is still strong, so we always check before recommending it.
At Asphalt Paving San Antonio, we resurface driveways, parking lots, private roads and HOA streets across Bexar County.
Is Your Pavement a Good Candidate for Resurfacing?
Resurfacing is usually a good fit if you see:
- A gray, faded, rough or raveling surface
- Lots of small surface cracks, but no soft spots
- Minor low spots or shallow ruts
- Pavement that’s 10–20 years old but still feels solid when you drive on it
Resurfacing is NOT a good fit if you see:
- Widespread alligator cracking (connected cracks like reptile skin)
- Potholes that keep coming back
- Soft, sinking or spongy areas
- Water standing in the same spots after every rain
Those are signs of base failure. An overlay on a failed base will crack again within a year or two. In that case, we’ll recommend asphalt repair first or full replacement.
Our Resurfacing Process
- Inspect the base. We walk the pavement, check for soft spots and drainage problems, and tell you honestly whether an overlay will last.
- Repair weak areas. Any failed spots are cut out and patched with new base and hot mix first.
- Seal cracks and clean. Larger cracks are sealed, and the surface is swept and blown clean.
- Fix edges and transitions. Where the new layer meets a garage slab, sidewalk or street, we grind a small “key” so the new asphalt ties in smoothly with no lip.
- Tack coat. A sticky asphalt emulsion is sprayed so the new layer bonds to the old.
- Pave and compact. We place 1.5 to 2 inches of hot mix asphalt and compact it with a roller while it’s hot.
We'll check your base and tell you whether resurfacing or replacement makes more sense. Mon–Sat: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Resurfacing vs. Replacement
| Resurfacing (overlay) | Full replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| What’s done | New top layer over existing pavement | Old pavement and weak base removed, rebuilt |
| Typical cost | $2 – $4 per sq ft | $5 – $8 per sq ft |
| Time | Usually 1 day for a driveway | 1–3 days for a driveway |
| Best when | Base is solid, surface is worn | Base has failed |
| Lifespan | Often 8–15 years with maintenance | 15–20+ years |
For larger commercial lots where the surface must stay level with curbs and drains, we usually mill before overlaying.
Resurfacing Cost in San Antonio
| Project | Typical price range |
|---|---|
| Asphalt overlay (1.5–2 inches) | $2 – $4 per sq ft |
| Two-car driveway overlay (about 960 sq ft) | $1,900 – $3,800 |
| Patching before overlay (if needed) | $5 – $12 per sq ft |
Estimated 2026 ranges for the San Antonio area, not a quote. See the full asphalt paving cost guide.
Asphalt Resurfacing FAQs
How long does asphalt resurfacing last?
A good overlay on a solid base usually lasts about 8 to 15 years in San Antonio. Sealing cracks and sealcoating every 2 to 3 years helps it reach the longer end.
Can you resurface over cracked asphalt?
Yes, if the cracks are on the surface and the base is still solid. Larger cracks are sealed first. If the cracks are connected like alligator skin, the base has failed and those areas must be repaired before any overlay.
Will resurfacing raise my driveway height?
An overlay adds about 1.5 to 2 inches. At garage slabs, sidewalks and the street, we grind a small edge first so the new asphalt meets them smoothly without a bump.
How soon can I drive on a resurfaced driveway?
Usually after 48 to 72 hours, and a little longer in peak summer heat. Avoid sharp turns while parked for the first few weeks.
Is resurfacing cheaper than replacing a driveway?
Yes. Resurfacing often costs about half as much as full replacement because the existing base stays in place. It’s only a good deal when that base is still strong.
