Driveway Resurfacing vs. Replacement: What’s Right for You

As homeowners, we all face the same dilemma at some point: our driveway has seen better days and is in desperate need of a facelift. The question then becomes: should you opt for a complete replacement, or is driveway resurfacing a cheaper solution? It’s a tough choice and one that impacts not only your wallet but also the look and feel of your property.

At Spray Your Concrete, we understand this predicament all too well. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the pros and cons of driveway resurfacing versus replacement. We’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of costs, timeframes, and inconvenience factors, arming you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Is driveway resurfacing cheaper than getting a new driveway? How long does each option take, and how much disruption can you expect? Keep reading as we explore these questions and more, offering insights and advice to help you choose the best solution for your property. And remember, no matter what you decide, Spray Your Concrete is here to help every step of the way.

What is Driveway Resurfacing?

Driveway resurfacing, as the name suggests, involves giving your existing driveway a fresh, new surface. At Spray Your Concrete, we offer a range of resurfacing solutions, including covercrete or spraycrete, decorative resurfacing, and concrete sealing. This process can completely transform the aesthetic appeal of your property, adding value and enhancing safety with better traction.

Common materials used in any concrete resurfacing project include covercrete/spraycrete, stencil concrete, and textured concrete. Each material offers a unique finish and can be customised to fit any style or budget. The benefits of resurfacing your driveway are numerous: it’s economical, quick, and easy, and it can instantly revamp your property’s kerb appeal.

What Does a New Driveway Involve?

Installing a new driveway is a more extensive process than resurfacing. It involves removing the existing driveway and preparing the site for the new installation. On the Gold Coast, concrete and pavers are common choices for new driveways.

While a new driveway can certainly enhance the look of your property, there are several factors to consider. First, the cost is typically higher than resurfacing. Second, the process can be time-consuming and disruptive. Finally, there may be hidden costs involved, such as excavation, site preparation, drainage considerations, and any necessary permits or approvals.

Cost Analysis

Driveway Resurfacing Cost

The average driveway resurfacing cost in Australia is between $50-$75 per square meter. However, the final cost can vary depending on the area’s size, the existing driveway’s condition, and any additional features or customisations. For an accurate quote, it’s best to consult with professionals like us at Spray Your Concrete. We’ll consider all relevant factors and provide you with a fair and transparent quote.

New Driveway Cost

The cost of installing a new driveway in Australia can vary significantly, depending on several factors. According to SEQ Concrete Cutting, the average cost of concrete removal or demolition ranges from $45 to $60 per square metre. Additionally, the cost of new concrete varies based on the type. As per hippages.com.au, plain concrete can cost between $60 and $85 per square metre, while exposed aggregate can range from $50 to $150 per square metre. Conversely, serviceseeking.com.au suggests that concrete removal costs between $35 and $50 per m2, while a flat driveway installation may cost around $65 per sq/m, and a sloped driveway could go up to $95 per sq/m.

So, when you add the removal cost to the new concrete costs, you’re looking at a total cost of between $95 and $195 per square meter—or even more, depending on the materials used and the job’s complexity.

Remember, these are just averages. The actual cost can be higher or lower, depending on the specifics of your project. And don’t forget about the hidden costs, such as site preparation, drainage, and permits. Always get a detailed quote before proceeding with a new driveway installation.

Read our article, “Decoding Concrete Resurfacing Costs: What You Need to Know“, for a more in-depth look at resurfacing costs.

Timeframe

How Long Does Driveway Resurfacing Take?

Typically, driveway resurfacing can be completed within a day. However, if you’ve chosen a complex stencilled design, allow an extra day to complete the process. It’s a relatively quick solution that can leave your driveway looking brand new in no time. Of course, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances can prolong the project,

Best of all, you can drive on it just two days after the application.

How Long Does It Take to Install a New Driveway?

The installation of a new driveway, whether it’s paved or concrete, is a more time-consuming process. It may take several days or even weeks, depending on the project’s complexity. Just like with resurfacing, there can be delays due to weather, obtaining necessary permits, or unexpected issues during excavation.

In terms of when you can drive on newly poured concrete, you’ll have to wait seven days for it to cure.

Inconvenience Factor

Resurfacing your driveway is far less disruptive than a complete replacement. You won’t have to navigate around a construction site for days on end, and in most cases, you can use your driveway during the resurfacing process. If you’re looking to minimise inconvenience, opting for concrete resurfacing is the quickest solution.

Why Spray Your Concrete’s Driveway Resurfacing is the Best Option

When it comes to cost, time-saving, and quality, Spray Your Concrete’s driveway resurfacing service holds a significant comparative advantage. Not only is driveway resurfacing a cost-effective alternative to installing a new concrete driveway, but it also offers a quicker process that delivers durable, high-quality results.

By utilising advanced resurfacing techniques and premium materials, we ensure your driveway looks brand new and withstands the test of time and various weather conditions. Trust Spray Your Concrete for all your driveway resurfacing needs and enjoy the benefits of a cost-effective, efficient, and long-lasting solution.

Click here to learn more about our driveway resurfacing service.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

Deciding between driveway resurfacing and a new driveway depends on various factors. We recommend homeowners consider their budget, the current condition of their driveway, and the level of disruption they’re willing to tolerate. If your driveway is structurally sound with only surface-level damage, resurfacing is often the better choice. However, if your driveway has significant structural issues, a new driveway may be unavoidable.

Conclusion

To recap, while both driveway resurfacing and installing a new driveway have their pros and cons, Spray Your Concrete’s driveway resurfacing service offers a cost-effective and convenient solution. It’s much cheaper, quicker, less disruptive, and can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property.

Why not take the first step towards a beautiful, durable driveway today? Contact us at Spray Your Concrete for a free quote. We’re confident that once you’ve experienced the benefits of our service, you’ll understand why we’re the preferred choice for driveway resurfacing on the Gold Coast.