When it comes to driveways, carparks, or other asphalt and concrete surfaces, one of the most common questions property owners face is: Should I Recoat with Asphalt or Completely Redo. recoat means going on top of the existing surface, or redo completely rip it out and start fresh?

Both options have their place, and the right choice often depends on the age of your surface, its current condition, your budget, and how long you want the solution to last. this is a A Guide to Making the Right Choice

Recoating with Asphalt

Recoating, sometimes called resurfacing or overlaying, involves applying a new layer of asphalt over your existing surface. This method doesn’t require tearing everything out; instead, your existing driveway or carpark is used as the base for the fresh layer.

How It Works

• Any large cracks or damaged spots are patched first.

• The surface is cleaned and prepared.

• A new layer of asphalt (typically 20–30mm thick) is laid over the top, creating a fresh, smooth finish.

Pros of Recoating

• Quick turnaround – Usually completed in a couple of days, depending on the area size.

• Cost-effective – Less labour, less material, and no disposal costs compared to a full redo.

• Fresh appearance – Instantly improves the look of your property.

• Convenience – Minimal disruption, ideal for residential driveways or small carparks.

Cons of Recoating

• Underlying problems remain – If the base is weak, soft, or poorly drained, those issues are only covered, not solved.

• Crack reflection – Existing cracks in asphalt or concrete may reappear through the new surface over time.

• Shorter lifespan – A recoat won’t last as long as a full replacement. Expect 5–10 years depending on conditions.

• Not suitable for severe damage – If the driveway has major structural failures, recoating may not be a viable option.

Completely Redoing the Surface

A full redo is a complete reconstruction of your driveway or carpark. This involves removing the old asphalt or concrete, disposing of it, then rebuilding the base before laying fresh asphalt on top.

How It Works

• The existing surface is ripped out and removed.

• A new, strong base layer is installed and compacted.

• Fresh asphalt is then laid over the top, typically 30–40mm thick for residential driveways (subject to conditions and specifications).

• For areas with heavy vehicles such as trucks, asphalt thickness is increased to 40–50mm for added durability.

Pros of a Full Redo

• Strong foundation – Starting fresh ensures a stable base and proper drainage, preventing future issues.

• Long-term investment – A new asphalt surface can last 15–25 years with the right maintenance.

• Handles heavy use – With the right thickness, it’s perfect for areas with trucks, machinery, or high traffic.

• Rarely fails – With a proper base, the chances of cracks or sinking are greatly reduced.

• Customisation – Can be redesigned for better flow, layout, or drainage if needed.

Cons of a Full Redo

• Higher cost – More labour, materials, and disposal mean a bigger upfront expense.

• More time-consuming – A complete redo typically takes longer than a recoat.

• Greater disruption – The area is completely unusable until the job is finished.

Which Option is Right for You?

• Choose a recoat if:

  • Your existing driveway is mostly solid with only minor cracks or wear.

  • You want a fast, cost-effective facelift.

  • You don’t mind if it lasts 5–10 years instead of decades.

• Choose a full redo if:

  • Your driveway has deep cracks, potholes, or drainage issues.

  • The surface is uneven, soft, or unstable.

  • You want a long-term solution that will handle heavy use.

  • You’re ready to invest in a surface that will last decades.

Final Thoughts

Both recoating and a complete redo have their place in asphalt maintenance. If your surface is structurally sound, a recoat is a fast and affordable way to give it a fresh life. But if you’re dealing with major damage or you want the peace of mind that comes with a long-term fix, investing in a full reconstruction is the smarter choice.

At Spencer Asphalt, we help you assess your driveway or carpark and recommend the solution that best fits your needs, your budget, and your long-term plans.

Important Note

This advice is general in nature. Each driveway or carpark is different and subject to one of our expert estimators taking a close look at it. Thickness, design, and longevity are always subject to each location, variables, and site conditions.