What is concrete resurfacing?
Resurfacing is a way to give old concrete a complete facelift and give it a fresh, like-new appearance. The process involves applying a concrete overlay directly onto the existing slab to hide imperfections and enhance durability. Even better, you can choose among a variety of decorative options—such as stamping, staining, and texturing—to customize the finish and give it character.
Most concrete resurfacing products are made from cement-based materials blended with polymers or resins. These additives are the key to long-term performance because they help the overlay adhere better, stay flexible, and resist cracking and peeling over time.
How long will concrete resurfacing last?
If you use a high-quality resurfacing product and have it professionally installed, you can expect resurfaced concrete to last 8 to15 years on average. With consistent maintenance and favorable climate conditions, the lifespan may be even longer—sometimes extending up to 25 years.
One of the most critical factors affecting long-term durability is the condition of the existing concrete. Structural issues like spalling, cracking, or settling must be repaired prior to resurfacing to prevent premature failure. Other factors that can impact the lifespan of resurfaced concrete include the amount of foot or vehicle traffic the surface receives, the skill of the installer, and how well the surface is maintained.
| Factor |
Longevity |
| Good surface prep & installation |
8-15 years |
| Poor surface prep or subpar materials |
May fail in 1-3 years |
| Regular maintenance |
Can extend life significantly, by as much 5-10 years |
Does concrete resurfacing hold up to cars on a driveway?
Yes, concrete resurfacing can absolutely hold up to the weight and wear of vehicles on a driveway. Polymer-modified resurfacing compounds are designed to bond tightly to existing concrete and cure into a strong, durable surface. These materials can handle typical residential vehicle loads, including cars, SUVs, and light trucks. However, proper installation is key. Attention to surface prep (cleaning, profiling, and repairing) is essential to ensure the overlay adheres properly. Curing time matters too. Most newly resurfaced driveways should cure for at least 7 days before receiving standard vehicle traffic.
See our Concrete Driveway Resurfacing Guide.
Will concrete resurfacing crack?
Yes, concrete resurfacing can crack—but it doesn’t have to if it’s installed and maintained properly. When cracks do appear, they’re usually the result of poor surface preparation, thin or uneven application, shrinkage during curing, movement in the underlying slab, or damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
To minimize the risk of cracking, use a high-quality polymer-modified resurfacing product and have it professionally installed (see 8 reasons why a concrete overlay should only be installed by a professional.) Also, repair any active cracks in the base slab (those showing visible movement or widening over time). Once the overlay is applied, protect it with a durable concrete sealer to prevent the penetration of moisture and chemicals.
Learn more about repairing cracks in concrete slabs.
What the Pros Say
“If the concrete beneath the overlay is already damaged, cracked, or shifting due to shifting ground, the overlay will not last very long. The same causes for the broken concrete will cause the concrete overlay to crack as well.”
