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Check whether the slab can be resurfaced
Resurfacing puts a new finish over an existing slab. It can suit a worn or discoloured surface where the base is sound. If one side of a crack sits higher than the other, cracks keep widening or water pools because the slab has sunk, ask a concreter to assess the cause before choosing a finish.
A moving crack can show through a new surface. Ask whether the contractor recommends local repair, resurfacing or replacement and why. ARDEX Australia’s technical note on stable cracks explains why identifying movement matters.
Concrete driveway resurfacing options
| Option | When to consider it | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway coating or compatible coloured sealer | The slab is sound and you mainly want to refresh the colour. | Check compatibility with any existing paint or sealer, and suitability for vehicle tyres and outdoor exposure. |
| Textured cement-based overlay | You want a new surface texture or a stencilled pattern over sound concrete. | Ask how the slab will be prepared and whether the finished system suits a sloping or frequently wet driveway. |
| Repair or replacement before resurfacing | The slab has shifted, sunk or developed widening cracks. | Ask what caused the movement and whether the contractor recommends repairing a section or replacing the slab. |
For an example of what a decorative overlay can do, see Dulux Avista’s driveway resurfacing guide. For any system, ask the contractor for its product name and suitability for your slab, traffic and exposure.
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View samples outside and ask about wet grip, cleaning and whether the surface needs periodic resealing. Choose a texture you can live with when it’s dirty as well as when it’s new.
Check what happens before the finish goes on
Ask how the contractor will remove old coatings, oil and loose material, and how they’ll prepare the surface for the proposed product. Ask how they’ll treat cracks and keep existing movement joints working. Check that thresholds, garage doors and drainage grates will still work with the proposed finish.
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Compare quotes on the same scope
Give each concreter the same measurements and photos. Ask them to itemise preparation, crack repairs, the finish and sealer if required. Confirm when you can walk or drive on it, what care it needs and what the warranty covers if a crack returns. If two prices are far apart, check whether both include the same preparation.
To compare quotes, divide the total including GST by the same measured area. Check whether both prices include the same preparation and repairs before you compare the rate. Ask what the contractor will do if old paint, oil or a previous sealer needs extra removal.