Concrete Overlays vs Full Replacement Cost

Concrete Overlays vs Full Replacement: Cost and Decision Guide

When your concrete is damaged, you have two options: overlay (resurfacing) or full replacement. Understanding when each is appropriate and their costs helps you make the right decision. This guide covers exactly when overlays work and when replacement is necessary.

Concrete Overlays: $6-$10+ Per Square Foot

Overlays are thin layers of new concrete applied over existing concrete.

How They Work

Thin layer: Typically 1-2 inches of new concrete
Applied over existing: Goes on top of old concrete
Bonds to base: Must bond to existing surface
New surface: Creates fresh, new appearance

When Overlays Work

Overlays are good if:

Cracks are minor: Hairline to 1/8 inch, cosmetic only
Base is stable: No settling, heaving, or base failure
Surface issues only: Problems are cosmetic, not structural
Foundation is sound: Base concrete is still solid

Cost Factors

Example cost range: approximately $6-$10+ per square foot. Actual costs vary based on:

Surface preparation needed
Overlay thickness
Finishes and textures
Site conditions

Full Replacement: $12-$18+ Per Square Foot

Full replacement removes old concrete and installs new.

How It Works

Remove old concrete: Demolish and haul away
Prepare base: Excavate and prepare new base
Install new concrete: Pour new concrete from scratch

When Replacement is Required

Replacement is necessary if:

Sub-base has failed: Base is unstable, settling, or heaving
Structural damage: Major cracks, displacement, or failure
Base problems: Issues with foundation or base
Overlay won't work: Base too unstable for overlay to bond

Cost Factors

Example cost range: approximately $12-$18+ per square foot. Actual costs vary based on:

Demolition and removal
Base preparation
New concrete installation
Site conditions

How to Decide

Evaluate your concrete to determine which option is right:

Check the Base

Is it stable? No settling, heaving, or movement
Is it level? No major displacement
Is it sound? Base concrete is still solid

Check the Cracks

How wide? Hairline to 1/8 inch = overlay may work
Wider than 1/8 inch? May need replacement
Structural? Cracks indicating base failure = replacement

Professional Assessment

Have a professional evaluate:

They can determine base stability
Assess whether overlay will work
Recommend the right solution

Cost Comparison Example (For Reference Only)

Disclaimer: These are example scenarios. Actual costs vary significantly.

For a 400-square-foot driveway:

Overlay:

Example cost: approximately $2,400-$4,000+
Faster installation
Less disruption

Full Replacement:

Example cost: approximately $4,800-$7,200+
More thorough solution
Longer installation

Actual costs vary significantly based on site conditions, materials, and project specifics.

The Bottom Line

Overlays cost approximately $6-$10+ per square foot and work well if cracks are minor and the base is stable. Full replacement costs approximately $12-$18+ per square foot and is required if the sub-base has failed. The decision depends on base condition, not just surface appearance. Have a professional assess your concrete to determine which option is right—overlaying a failing base wastes money, while replacing sound concrete is unnecessary.

Need an assessment? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We'll evaluate your concrete and recommend the right solution—overlay or replacement—based on actual conditions.