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The three main methods used to repair distressed asphalt surfaces including removal and replacement, patch overlays, and complete resurfacing. To determine which type of repair is most appropriate, we take the type and severity of distress into account to guarantee the most effective pavement repair. Click the following link to learn more about the types of asphalt deterioration.

asphalt overlay


While very similar to asphalt resurfacing, an asphalt overlay is performed in a patch style rather than a complete resurfacing project. A typical overlay would install 1/2" to 1 1/2" inches of new asphalt over selected areas. 

  • Asphalt overlay is more cost-effective than both resurfacing and removal and replacement
  • An asphalt overlay may be used to eliminate surface moisture infiltration in areas of depression
  • ​By using proper compaction measures via hydraulic roller and vibratory plates, uniform and rectangular overlays are resistance to damage the following winter by snowplows. 

asphalt Resurfacing


A typical resurface would install 1 ½ to 2 ½ inches of new asphalt over all of the existing surface. The entire asphalt surface would have the same appearance it had when it was new, at a fraction of the original install cost.

  • Resurfacing is less expensive per square foot than removal and replacement.
  • If more than 25% of the asphalt surface has alligator cracking resurfacing is an economical solution.
  • If high severity alligator cracking is present, a petromat installation should be considered.


asphalt Removal and Replacement


When high severity alligator cracking, rutting, depressions, and edge cracking are present, asphalt removal and replacement may be the most cost-effective repair. A deteriorated area will continue to grow until treated. The deteriorated asphalt will contaminate the stone sub-base and will continue until repaired.

  • Minimal Removal and Replacement
    • Removal and replacement of existing 2 to 4 inches of asphalt only within the deteriorated area.
  • Full depth Removal and Replacement
    • Removal and replacement of existing 2 to 4 inches of asphalt and 4 to 8 inches of stone sub-base.

Asphalt solutions

Common Repair Methods and Installation Techniques

Asphalt milling is commonly used when the wearing course surface asphalt has deteriorated, yet the stone sub-base shows no signs of distress. After a hydraulic milling machine removes the wearing course, asphalt is then re-installed in two "lifts"; the first leveling course lift provides a level and depression-free surface while the second is a new installation of wearing course asphalt. However, milling can also be used in smaller applications for perimeter milling prior to asphalt overlays to help ensure proper drainage as well as to create "butt joints" between transitional sections that allows resurfacing to take place without milling the entire internal area.

Resurface or overlay?

what to do based on your budget


asphalt milling

replacing the wearing course asphalt

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