Asphalt Resurfacing vs. Replacement

Replacing your entire asphalt parking lot is a big deal. However, sometimes it’s necessary if the damage is beyond repair. If you’re wondering whether you can get away with resurfacing your asphalt parking lot or if you need to replace the whole thing, our parking lot paving contractors at ACT Asphalt Specialties can help.

Consider the age, foundation condition, and the amount of work that would need to be done before asphalt parking lot resurfacing could happen. If the foundation is in good condition, we’ll recommend asphalt resurfacing. Otherwise, your asphalt parking lot will need to be replaced.

There’s no point in replacing the surface if the foundation it’s resting on is damaged beyond repair.

Resurfacing vs. Replacement

Choose asphalt resurfacing if…	Choose asphalt replacement if…
Less than 25-30% of your parking lot needs repair	More than 25-30% of your parking lot needs repair
Foundation is strong and intact	Foundation has failed
Parking lot is less than 20 years old	Parking lot is 20-30 years old
Cracks in parking lot are NOT over ¼ inch wide and/or a few inches deep	Cracks in parking lot are over ¼ inch wide and/or a few inches deep

What Does Resurfacing Mean?

Parking lot resurfacing is when we apply a new layer of asphalt to your existing pavement surface. Asphalt parking lot resurfacing is different from total asphalt replacement because we only apply a new layer of asphalt to the surface without touching the foundation. Depending on the condition of your parking lot’s surface, we may have to repair small cracks or potholes before we can apply an asphalt overlay.

How Often Should You Repave a Parking Lot?

Our asphalt parking lot contractors recommend you replace your asphalt parking lot as soon as you notice signs that the foundation has failed, such as alligator cracking. In general, you should start planning for asphalt parking lot replacement once the pavement reaches 20 to 30 years of age. However, the lifespan of yourparking lot will vary based on maintenance received over the years, vehicle traffic, freeze-thaw cycles, and other conditions.

How Long Do Asphalt Parking Lots Last?

Your asphalt parking lot can last between 20 and 30 years with regular maintenance. If your asphalt parking lot has reached the end of its natural lifespan, call our asphalt contractors as soon as possible to determine if replacement is necessary. The lifespan of your parking lot may also be affected by freeze-thaw cycles, heavy non-pedestrian vehicles parking long-term, vehicle traffic, flooding, and other factors.

How Long Do Asphalt Overlays Last?

In general, an asphalt overlay can last between 8 and 15 years. To help your asphalt parking lot overlay last as long as possible, you’ll want to invest in routine maintenance. We recommend taking advantage of our asphalt parking lot sealcoating, crack repair, and pothole filling services.

Call Our Asphalt Contractors Today

Our Minneapolis, MN asphalt paving contractors can help you decide if your asphalt surface should be repaired or replaced. Give ACT Asphalt Specialties a call at (651) 484-1696 to get a free estimate.