Your driveway works hard every day—enduring Georgia’s scorching heat, heavy rains, oil spills, and the weight of vehicles. Over time, that wear and tear adds up. If you’ve noticed cracks, fading, or drainage problems, it might be time to consider driveway resurfacing.
At Reid Paving, Inc., we specialize in helping homeowners across Atlanta and Northwest Georgia decide whether resurfacing is the right solution—and we’ve been doing it since 1977. In this guide, we’ll help you understand the signs it’s time to resurface and why acting now can save you thousands.
🧱 What Is Driveway Resurfacing?
Resurfacing is the process of applying a new layer of asphalt (usually 1.5–2 inches thick) over an existing driveway. It restores appearance and function without tearing up the base, making it more affordable and less invasive than full replacement.
Resurfacing is ideal when:
The base is still structurally sound
Surface damage is moderate (not severe or deep)
You want a fresh, smooth, blacktop look without total reconstruction
🔍 6 Signs It’s Time for Driveway Resurfacing
1. Widespread Cracking (Alligator Cracks or Spiderweb Patterns)
Small cracks might be fixable with patching or crack sealing, but extensive cracking signals that the surface layer is breaking down. Left untreated, these cracks let in water and cause the base to deteriorate.
💡 If your driveway looks like cracked leather or a reptile’s back—it’s time to resurface.
2. Fading, Stains, and Surface Erosion
Georgia’s intense sun fades asphalt over time, while oil, coolant, and rust from vehicles cause permanent stains. Combine that with rain and poor drainage, and you’ve got erosion that eats away the protective top layer.
✅ Resurfacing restores your driveway’s clean blacktop appearance and helps repel future damage.
3. Potholes or Depressions
Even a few shallow potholes can signal bigger issues beneath the surface. If potholes are widespread or recurring, patching might not be enough.
👉 A resurfacing job smooths out the dips and strengthens the overall structure of your driveway.
4. Drainage Problems
Does water pool in certain areas after it rains? Poor drainage leads to erosion, undermines your driveway’s base, and accelerates cracking.
Reid Paving evaluates grading and slope issues before resurfacing, ensuring water flows off the pavement properly.
5. Edge Crumbling or Loose Gravel
Are the edges of your driveway breaking away? Is loose gravel starting to appear on the surface?
These are signs that the asphalt is weakening. A resurfacing project replaces the top layer and strengthens the edges with fresh compaction and clean lines.
6. Your Driveway Is 15–20 Years Old
Even well-maintained asphalt has a lifespan. If your driveway is more than 15 years old and hasn’t been resurfaced or sealcoated recently, the surface layer is likely reaching the end of its effectiveness.
📆 Summer is the best time to resurface—warm temperatures help the asphalt cure correctly for maximum durability.
🛠️ Resurfacing vs. Replacement: What’s the Difference?
If your asphalt base has failed (for example, if it’s soft, sinking, or structurally unstable), resurfacing won’t help—you’ll need a full replacement.
However, most homeowners qualify for resurfacing, especially if damage is only on the surface. Reid Paving offers expert evaluations to help you decide the best route.
🔗 Read our detailed comparison: Driveway Resurfacing vs. Replacement
🏡 Benefits of Driveway Resurfacing
✔️ Improves curb appeal instantly
✔️ Extends the lifespan of your existing driveway
✔️ Saves thousands compared to full replacement
✔️ Quick turnaround (usually 1–2 days)
✔️ Enhances safety by eliminating tripping hazards
🗺️ Serving Atlanta & Northwest Georgia Since 1977
At Reid Paving, we’ve resurfaced thousands of driveways across Carroll County, Douglasville, Villa Rica, Newnan, Bremen, and West Georgia. We combine generational experience with modern equipment and heat-resistant asphalt to deliver long-lasting results.
📸 Ask about our before-and-after portfolio!
📞 Ready for a Fresh Start? Let’s Resurface It.
Summer is the perfect time to schedule your resurfacing project. Don’t wait until the damage worsens—Reid Paving can inspect your driveway and give you a fast, fair quote.
📍 Contact us today:
📞 (770) 834-8303
🖱️ https://reidpaving.com/contact-us
🚗 Or learn more: https://go.reidpaving.com/asphalt
Final Thoughts:
Your driveway deserves more than a patch job. If you’re seeing signs of age, cracks, or fading, driveway resurfacing is a smart way to restore its strength and look—without breaking the bank.
Let Reid Paving handle the heat so your pavement lasts longer.
