How Much Does It Cost To Resurface A Driveway?

How Much Does It Cost To Resurface A Driveway?

Resurfacing a driveway is a practical and cost-effective way to enhance your property's curb appeal and extend the life of your driveway. Whether your existing surface is worn, cracked, or outdated, resurfacing can rejuvenate it, making it look as good as new without the expense of a full replacement. However, the cost of resurfacing a driveway can vary significantly based on factors such as the size of the driveway, the materials used, and the job. From basic resurfacing options like asphalt and concrete to more premium finishes like stamped concrete and exposed aggregate, this guide will help you with the cost of the best resurfacing option for your needs and budget.

Costs To Resurface A Driveway

The cost to resurface a driveway in Australia typically ranges between $30 to $110 per square meter, depending on the material and location. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, expect higher costs due to increased labour and material expenses. Asphalt and concrete are common choices, with costs varying based on the quality and finish.

Cost By Resurfacing Type

Here is the cost per square foot for basic concrete resurfacing and decorative concrete resurfacing.

Basic Concrete Resurfacing

The expected cost is between $3 and $5 per square foot to resurface your driveway with basic concrete. Basic concrete resurfacing has a single stain colour.

• 50 square feet- Between $150 and $250


• 100 square feet- Between $300 and $500


• 200 square feet- Between $600 and $1,000


• 500 square feet- Between $1,500 and $2,500


• 700 square feet- Between $2,100 and $3,500


• 900 square feet- Between $2,700 and $4,500


• 1,200 square feet- Between $3,600 and $6,000


• 1,500 square feet- Between $4,500 and $7,500

Decorative Concrete Resurfacing

The average cost to resurface a driveway with decorative concrete is between $7 and $28 per square foot. Decorative concrete resurfacing includes multiple colours, polishing, and saw cuts.

• 50 square feet- Between $350 and $1,400


• 100 square feet- Between $700 and $2,800


• 200 square feet- Between $1,400 and $5,600


• 500 square feet- Between $3,500 and $14,000


• 700 square feet- Between $4,900 and $19,600


• 900 square feet- Between $6,300 and $25,200


• 1,200 square feet- Between $8,400 and $33,600


• 1,500 square feet- Between $10,500 and $42,000

This involves stencils, embeds, epoxy coatings and other decorative elements. It costs between $8 to $28 per square foot.

Cost By Total Materials And Labour

With various options available in the form of driveway resurfacing materials, labour costs also vary depending on these material types. See how the resurfacing cost varies depending on the driveway material.

• Brick Pavers- $1 to $2.50 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $10 to $30.


• Gravel- $1 to $3 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $4 to $10.


• Asphalt- $1 to $5 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $7 to $15.


• Stamped Concrete- $2 to $3 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $12 to $18.


• Exposed Aggregate Driveway- $3 to $7 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $6 to $15.


• Concrete- $4 to $7 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $6 to $20. Standard concrete costs around $35 per square metre, stencilled concrete costs between $50 and $85 per square metre, and coloured concrete costs between $75 and $90 per square metre.


• Rubber- $5 to $10 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $10 to $25.


• Paving Stones- $7 to $20 per square foot costing total materials and labour from $40 to $75.

Demolition And Permits Costs

Demolition and permits dramatically affect the cost of driveway resurfacing.

• Cost By Demolition- Between $1 and $4 per square foot


• Cost By Permits- Between $50 and $500 based on the state and local council

Additional Costs With Driveway Resurfacing

When resurfacing a driveway, additional costs can arise from surface preparation, drainage adjustments, and material upgrades. Understanding these potential expenses helps homeowners budget effectively for a smooth and durable finish.

Before resurfacing, you should power wash your driveway. It can remove existing coatings, grime, and dirt. It costs between $150 and $250 to complete the power washing.

Most driveways require repair and replacement. You can fix issues with the concrete and the list of their charges is as follows:

• Crack Repair Cost- Between $250 and $800


• General Concrete Repair Cost- Between $300 and $3,500


• Total Concrete Replacement Or Removal Cost- Between $200 and $6,000

If your driveway has an unlevel surface, you can get it levelled and pay around $900 for a smooth resurfacing. Usually, this project includes mud jacking by continuously pumping concrete mud for levelling.

Stealing is done to protect the driveway and staining is done to add beautiful colours.

• Stealing Cost- $0.50 to $2.50 per square foot


• Staining Cost- $2 to $5 per square foot.

Benefits Of Driveway Resurfacing Over Replacement

• Time-Saving: Driveway resurfacing is a faster process than a replacement process. This is because replacement takes time for old removals, curing the new materials and excavation time.


• Improve Aesthetics At Lower Costs: Adding concrete or asphalt resurfacing to a driveway significantly improves the overall aesthetics of the outdoors at a lower cost than replacement.


• Address Surface Issues: Driveway resurfacing is one of the best solutions for addressing surface issues like cracks, irregularities in the surface and minor potholes without replacing the main material.


• Less Disruption: As driveway resurfacing causes less impact on landscaping and adjacent structures, the overall process causes less disruption to the property surroundings.


• Structural Integrity: Is the foundation of your existing driveway in bad condition? Resurfacing is the best and most practical solution you can look for to resolve all the damages and superficial problems.

Conclusion

While driveway resurfacing can significantly enhance the appearance and longevity of your driveway, it's important to consider the costs that may arise. By accounting for different factors, you can ensure a successful driveway resurfacing that meets your aesthetic and functional needs, without unexpected cost surprises.