Is your driveway a candidate?
| Overlay is likely fine | Fix first |
|---|---|
| Gray, rough or raveling surface | Spiderweb (alligator) cracking |
| Scattered narrow cracks | Heaved or sunken spots from frost |
| A few potholes | Edges washed out or broken off |
| Water drains off normally | Water runs down the middle or ponds |
The process
- Repair failed sections full-depth.
- Fix drainage if water has been part of the problem.
- Seal larger cracks.
- Mill at the garage, walks and road so the new layer is flush.
- Tack coat to bond the layers.
- Pave about 1.5–2 inches compacted.
On steep drives
An overlay on a steep driveway needs a good bond to the old surface, or it can slide. Proper cleaning, tack coat and compaction are what prevent that.
Questions we get
How long does an overlay last?
Often 10–15 years or more on a solid base with regular sealcoating.
Will it make my driveway higher at the garage?
Not if the edge is milled first.
Can you overlay frost-heaved asphalt?
Those areas need to be dug out and rebuilt first.