Concrete Driveway Resurfacing Hobart: Homeowner’s Guide
Concrete driveway resurfacing can be a practical way to improve an existing driveway when the concrete is generally sound but the surface has become worn, stained, faded or previously coated. Rather than removing and replacing the entire slab, resurfacing focuses on preparing the existing concrete and applying a new decorative or protective coating system.
The condition of the driveway needs to be assessed before deciding whether resurfacing is suitable. Surface wear and minor defects can often be addressed during preparation, but significant movement, major structural cracking or badly deteriorated concrete may require repairs or another solution before a coating system is considered.
What Does Concrete Driveway Resurfacing Involve?
Preparation is one of the most important parts of the job. The exact process depends on the condition of the driveway and whether it has previously been painted, sealed or coated.
Preparation may include:
- Thorough cleaning of the concrete
- Grinding or removal of failing existing coatings
- Treatment of oil, dirt and contaminants
- Repairing suitable cracks and minor surface defects
- Preparing edges and adjoining areas
- Applying the selected resurfacing or coating system
- Applying a suitable sealer where required
A new coating should not simply be applied over loose, contaminated or poorly bonded material. The existing surface needs to provide a suitable base for the system being used.
For information about our actual service, see concrete resurfacing in Hobart.
Is Every Concrete Driveway Suitable for Resurfacing?
No. Resurfacing works best where the existing concrete is fundamentally sound.
A driveway with cosmetic wear, fading, minor surface damage or a deteriorating previous coating may be a good candidate. More substantial cracking, movement between sections, sinking concrete or serious deterioration needs to be assessed before resurfacing.
A coating can improve the surface, but it cannot correct an underlying structural problem with the slab.
Driveway Painting or Concrete Resurfacing?
The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but the amount of preparation and the type of system can vary considerably.
A relatively sound driveway may only require preparation and recoating. A more worn surface may require additional repairs, mechanical preparation or a more substantial resurfacing system.
That is why we prefer to inspect the driveway rather than recommend the same treatment for every property.
You can also read our guide to driveway painting in Hobart.
Slip Resistance
Driveways, paths and other outdoor concrete surfaces can become slippery when wet, particularly if moss, dirt or contaminants are allowed to build up.
Where appropriate, the coating system can incorporate a slip-resistant additive or textured finish. The amount of texture required depends on the surface, slope, intended use and coating system.
It is important to balance additional grip with ease of cleaning and the appearance of the finished surface.
Choosing a Colour and Finish
Driveway resurfacing is available in a range of colours and finishes, so the existing house, roof, paving, fencing and surrounding landscaping can all influence the choice.
Neutral greys and darker tones are common, but the best choice depends on the individual property. Samples or colour charts should be considered in the actual surroundings because colours can look quite different outdoors compared with a small printed sample.
How Much Does Concrete Driveway Resurfacing Cost?
There is no useful single price that applies to every driveway.
Cost can be affected by:
- Total surface area
- Condition of the existing concrete
- Existing paint or coatings that need removing
- Cleaning or grinding required
- Crack and surface repairs
- Access to the driveway
- Number of colours or decorative finishes
- Coating and sealing system selected
An inspection allows the preparation requirements to be assessed before a written quotation is prepared.
How Long Does the Work Take?
The timeframe depends on the size and condition of the driveway, the amount of preparation required, the coating system and weather conditions during the work.
Drying and curing times also vary between products. We follow the requirements of the coating system being used and advise when the surface can safely be walked or driven on.
Maintaining a Resurfaced Driveway
Regular cleaning helps prevent dirt, moss, leaves and vehicle contaminants from building up on the surface.
Maintenance and future resealing requirements depend on the coating system, exposure, traffic and condition of the surface. Rather than relying on a fixed resealing interval, the driveway should be monitored and maintained according to the product used and how the surface is performing.
Concrete Driveway Resurfacing in Hobart
Performance Painting provides concrete resurfacing for driveways and other suitable outdoor concrete surfaces throughout Greater Hobart.
We inspect the existing surface first and recommend preparation and coating based on its actual condition.
Learn more about our concrete resurfacing service or book a quote to arrange an inspection.