Your concrete driveway is looking tired. Cracks, stains, the surface is wearing thin. You're facing a decision: resurface or replace?
It's one of the most common questions we get at Wizcrete — and the answer isn't always straightforward. Resurfacing can save you up to 70% vs full replacement, but it's not the right choice for every situation.
Here's how to decide.
The Quick Decision Guide
| Your Situation | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Surface cracks, stains, general wear | ✅ Resurface |
| Deep structural cracks (through the slab) | ❌ Replace |
| Concrete has sunk/settled (uneven) | ❌ Replace |
| Old pebblecrete surface you hate | ✅ Resurface (with stencil overlay) |
| Concrete is less than 10 years old | ✅ Resurface |
| Concrete is over 30 years old | ❌ Replace (or resurface if structurally sound) |
| You want to completely change the layout | ❌ Replace |
| You just want a facelift — new colour, new pattern | ✅ Resurface |
Cost Comparison
| Resurfacing | Full Replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| Average cost (50m²) | $3,000 - $5,500 | $6,500 - $12,000 |
| Timeline | 2-3 days | 5-7 days |
| Demolition required | No | Yes |
| Waste removal | Minimal | Truckloads |
| Lifespan of result | 10-15 years | 30+ years |
When to Resurface
Resurfacing is ideal when your existing concrete slab is structurally sound but the surface is showing its age. The process involves applying a 10-20mm polymer-modified overlay that bonds to the existing concrete.
We can then finish it with:
- Stencil overlay — a paper pattern creates the look of tile, slate, brick, or cobblestone
- Stamped overlay — rubber mats create deep texture for a premium stone finish
- Coloured topping — integral colour for a uniform, modern look
- Epoxy coating — seamless, glossy, industrial-grade finish (especially for garages)
Resurfacing means no demolition, no skip bins, no truck access needed. It's faster, cleaner, and far less disruptive to your household.
⭐ Great for: Old pebblecrete driveways, faded surfaces, stained concrete, homeowners who want a new look without the major renovation.
When to Replace
If the concrete itself is failing, resurfacing is just putting lipstick on a pig. You need replacement when:
- Structural cracks — cracks wider than 3mm, or cracks that have shifted vertically (one side higher than the other)
- Slab settlement — the driveway has sunk, causing pooling water or a tripping hazard
- Severe spalling — the surface is flaking or chipping away in large areas
- Old, crumbling concrete — if the concrete is breaking apart, no overlay will fix it
- You want a different layout — wider driveway, different shape, extra parking bay
The Verdict
From the Wizcrete team: If in doubt, start with resurfacing. We'll do a free on-site inspection and give you an honest recommendation. If resurfacing won't work, we'll tell you — and give you a replacement quote instead.
We've done thousands of both. The right answer depends on your concrete's condition, your budget, and your goals. A free site visit answers all of that in 15 minutes.
📞 Call Wizcrete Concrete at 0414 878 788 for your free on-site assessment.