Asphalt resurfacing is the cost-effective alternative to a full repave. We mill the failing surface, address base issues, and apply a fresh asphalt overlay that restores the lot to like-new condition for a fraction of the cost of full replacement.
Asphalt resurfacing is the smartest move when your parking lot or roadway is structurally sound but the surface is failing. Instead of tearing out and replacing every inch of asphalt, we mill the worn top layer, correct any base or drainage issues, and apply a fresh asphalt overlay. The result looks and performs like a new lot at a fraction of the cost of full asphalt resurfacing services that require complete demolition.
What is the difference between asphalt resurfacing and overlay? Asphalt resurfacing is the broader term for restoring a worn surface, and most commercial resurfacing projects use a mill-and-overlay process. Asphalt milling removes the top 1.5 to 2 inches of failing pavement, exposing a clean, level surface to bond to. Then a new layer of hot-mix asphalt is paved over the milled surface and compacted, tying cleanly into existing curbs, drainage structures, and adjacent pavement.
When does resurfacing make sense versus full replacement? If the base is intact and the failures are surface-level (raveling, oxidation, surface cracking, faded appearance), resurfacing typically delivers 10 to 15 more years of service life. When the base has failed across large areas, when potholes return repeatedly in the same spots, or when the lot has alligator cracking throughout, full-depth replacement is the better long-term value. We give honest assessments so you spend money on what actually fixes the problem.
Asphalt milling is also offered as a stand-alone service when you need to remove a thin asphalt layer for grade adjustments, transitions to new construction, or before a customer-supplied overlay. Our mills produce a clean, uniform profile and we haul off the milled material the same day.
Asphalt resurfacing cost depends on square footage, milling depth, base repairs needed, and overlay thickness. Most commercial overlays run a fraction of the cost per square foot of full replacement. Contact Parking Lots Plus for a free asphalt resurfacing estimate and an honest recommendation on resurface versus replace.
A properly installed mill and overlay on a sound base typically lasts 10 to 15 years with regular sealcoating and crack sealing. Skipping maintenance shortens that lifespan significantly.
Most commercial overlays are 1.5 to 2 inches of compacted hot-mix asphalt. Heavy-traffic areas like drive aisles or industrial sites may use thicker sections.
Sometimes, but milling is strongly recommended for commercial work. Milling preserves grades around curbs, doorways, and drainage structures and creates a much stronger bond between old and new asphalt.
Light traffic can typically return within 24 hours, with full traffic in 48 to 72 hours depending on temperature. Striping is applied after the surface fully cures.