Commercial asphalt repair vs. resurfacing: learn the difference and what’s right for your lot.

Commercial Asphalt Repair vs. Resurfacing

Save money—and your pavement—by choosing the right solution.

If you manage a commercial property—whether it’s a shopping center, church, medical plaza, or school—you know that pavement matters. Cracked, damaged asphalt creates safety risks, eyesores, and liability concerns. But the big question is:

Do I need spot repairs—or is it time to resurface the entire lot?

At Reid Paving, Inc., we help business owners across West Georgia and Metro Atlanta make the right choice. In this blog, we break down the key differences between commercial asphalt repair and resurfacing, so you can protect your investment and plan the right project.


🛠️ What Is Asphalt Repair?

Asphalt repair refers to fixing isolated problem areas, such as:

  • Potholes

  • Alligator cracks

  • Low spots causing water pooling

  • Edge cracking or crumbling

  • Surface raveling

These are typically caused by wear and tear, drainage problems, or age-related degradation. Our team will:

✔️ Cut and remove damaged asphalt
✔️ Rebuild the base (if needed)
✔️ Replace with new hot-mix asphalt
✔️ Compact and blend the patch into the surrounding surface

💡 Best For:

  • Small, localized damage

  • Relatively new pavement (under 10 years)

  • Preventing further deterioration


♻️ What Is Asphalt Resurfacing?

Resurfacing (also called overlaying) involves applying a new layer of asphalt—usually 1.5–2 inches thick—over your existing surface.

Before doing this, we:

  • Repair major cracks or potholes

  • Clean and prep the surface

  • Adjust drainage as needed

  • Apply the overlay and compact it smooth

It’s less expensive and quicker than a full replacement, but offers a dramatic visual and structural upgrade.

💡 Best For:

  • Lots with widespread surface wear

  • Aging asphalt (10–20 years) with a solid base

  • Properties wanting a fresh, uniform look

  • Budget-friendly upgrades with long-term impact


🔍 Key Differences at a Glance

FeatureAsphalt RepairAsphalt Resurfacing
ScopeSpecific areas onlyEntire surface overlay
CostLower for small issuesHigher upfront, lower long-term
TimeQuick (hours)1–2 days
Visual ImpactMinimalMajor improvement
Lifespan ImprovementAdds 3–5 yearsAdds 10–15 years

⚠️ Signs You Need Resurfacing, Not Just Repairs

Here are 5 warning signs it’s time to go beyond patching:

  1. Widespread cracking across the lot

  2. Multiple patches from past repairs

  3. Faded, uneven surface that looks neglected

  4. Poor drainage or visible warping

  5. Aging pavement that’s 15–25 years old

Still unsure? Our experts offer free on-site evaluations to help you decide between repair or resurfacing.


🏢 Why It Matters for Commercial Properties

First impressions count. Faded, cracked pavement gives customers and tenants the wrong idea.

Resurfacing can:

  • Improve safety for drivers and pedestrians

  • Refresh your curb appeal

  • Help meet ADA compliance

  • Extend the pavement’s life at a lower cost than full replacement

Reid Paving works with:

  • Retail & office parks

  • Churches & schools

  • HOAs & municipalities

  • Industrial yards & loading docks


💼 Let’s Talk Budget

Many commercial clients ask: “Which is cheaper?”

  • Repairs may seem cheaper short-term, but they often add up quickly and may not solve underlying issues.

  • Resurfacing, while more of an investment upfront, adds 10+ years of lifespan and saves money in the long run.

We’ll walk you through both options with an honest, detailed quote.


🛠️ Why Businesses Trust Reid Paving

✔️ Nearly 50 years of experience in commercial paving
✔️ Fully insured and bonded
✔️ Minimal downtime during repairs
✔️ Expert scheduling to avoid disrupting operations
✔️ ADA-compliant striping, layout, and signage included

From small businesses to regional facilities, we’re the trusted paving partner in Northwest Georgia.


📞 Need Help Deciding? Let’s Talk

Not sure if your lot needs patching or resurfacing? Let our experts evaluate your site and help you make the right call—for safety, longevity, and your bottom line.

📞 Call Reid Paving at (770) 834-8303
🖱️ Book your evaluation at: https://reidpaving.com/contact-us
📍 Serving Carrollton, Atlanta, Douglasville, Bremen, Villa Rica & beyond
🔗 Learn more: https://go.reidpaving.com/asphalt


Final Thoughts

Choosing between commercial asphalt repair vs. resurfacing doesn’t have to be confusing. With Reid Paving, you’ll get straightforward answers—and pavement that performs for years to come.