If you have a concrete driveway or parking lot that’s seen better days, you may be wondering if you can simply pave over it with asphalt instead of removing and replacing the entire surface. Good news: In many cases, asphalt can be installed over concrete, but it’s not always a straightforward process.
At Sunrise Asphalt, we often get questions about resurfacing concrete with asphalt, and while it’s a cost-effective solution, there are a few important things to consider before moving forward. In this guide, we’ll cover how the process works, the pros and cons, and whether it’s the right choice for your property.
Why Consider Paving Asphalt Over Concrete?
Concrete is incredibly strong, but over time, it can crack, settle unevenly, or deteriorate from weather exposure. If the structural base is still solid, covering it with asphalt is a practical option. Here’s why property owners consider this route:
- Cost savings – No need to remove and dispose of the old concrete
- Faster installation – Reduces project time and labor
- Improved appearance – Fresh, uniform blacktop looks clean and professional
- Smoother surface – Asphalt offers a more flexible and forgiving ride
In other words, a concrete driveway overlay with asphalt can extend the life of your paved surface without a full replacement.
The Asphalt Over Concrete Installation Process
While paving over concrete may seem simple, it requires careful evaluation and preparation. Here’s how the asphalt installation process works when going over concrete:
1. Inspection of the Concrete Base
Before any paving begins, your contractor will assess the condition of the concrete. The most important factor? Stability. If the concrete is cracked due to poor subgrade or shifting soils, those issues will eventually show through the asphalt.
Signs that indicate poor suitability include:
- Large or widespread cracks
- Heaving or settling slabs
- Drainage problems
If the base is sound, you’re good to move on. If not, a full replacement may be necessary.
2. Cleaning and Prepping the Surface
The existing concrete is thoroughly cleaned of dirt, oil stains, and loose debris. Any surface contaminants can interfere with asphalt bonding and lead to premature failure.
3. Crack Filling and Repairs
Major cracks or joints in the concrete are filled or sealed to prevent reflection cracking, when underlying flaws mirror through the new asphalt layer.
4. Tack Coat Application
A tack coat (a thin layer of sticky asphalt emulsion) is applied to help the new asphalt adhere properly to the concrete.
5. Asphalt Installation
Finally, a new layer of hot mix asphalt is laid and compacted over the prepared surface. The thickness will vary depending on use—driveways typically require 2 to 3 inches, while commercial lots may need more.
Key Considerations and Potential Challenges
While it’s entirely possible to resurface concrete with asphalt, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Expansion Joints
Concrete is poured in sections with joints that allow it to expand and contract. Over time, these joints can cause stress points that may transfer up into the asphalt, resulting in cracks.
Solution: A reliable contractor will address joints before paving—either by bridging them or reinforcing the area.
Drainage
Concrete is often laid flat, which doesn’t always allow water to drain properly. Without adjustments, pooling water can damage the asphalt surface.
Solution: Your contractor may need to regrade or build up certain areas to improve water runoff.
Long-Term Performance
Asphalt over concrete won’t last as long as asphalt over a traditional stone or gravel base, simply because the concrete beneath is less flexible. That said, with proper maintenance, you can still expect 10–20 years of performance.
Is Asphalt Over Concrete Right for You?
Choosing between paving over concrete or tearing it out depends on your budget, time constraints, and the condition of your existing surface. Here in Tucson, where we don’t deal with freeze-thaw cycles like colder climates, asphalt overlays tend to hold up better over concrete than they might elsewhere.
If your concrete is structurally sound and you’re looking for a cost-effective, fast way to improve your pavement, this method could be the perfect solution. However, if you’re dealing with major cracks or subgrade failure, a full replacement may be a better long-term investment.
Let Sunrise Asphalt Help
With nearly 40 years of experience paving Tucson driveways, roads, and parking lots, Sunrise Asphalt has the knowledge and equipment to evaluate your existing concrete and help you make the best decision for your property. We don’t cut corners, and we always make sure your new asphalt surface is built to last. We’ll assess your surface and walk you through your options so you get the smooth, durable results you expect.