Asphalt Overlays in St. Joseph, MO

Asphalt overlays put a new layer of hot-mix asphalt, usually 1.5 to 2 inches thick, over an existing surface. HomeGuide lists driveway resurfacing at about $3 to $7 per square foot and notes that an overlay typically saves 20 to 30 percent compared with replacement. The condition is a sound base. Cracks in a failed base reflect up through the new layer within a season or two.

Overlay works when

• The surface is worn, gray or rough but still flat
• Cracks are straight and separate
• Nothing moves under a car
• Water drains off

Overlay will not work when

• Cracking forms a web
• Areas have sunk or washed out
• Edges have broken off
• Earlier overlays have raised the surface too high

Preparation

We cut out and rebuild any failed spots, fill cracks, clean the surface and spray a tack coat so the new layer bonds. Where the overlay meets the garage, sidewalk or street, we mill or saw a notch so it finishes flush.

Slopes

On sloped driveways and lots, an overlay has to be placed and rolled carefully so it compacts evenly from top to bottom. We also check that the added height will not send water toward a garage door at the bottom of a hill.

Older St. Joseph driveways

Many older homes in the city have driveways that were overlaid once already. We measure heights before quoting; if another layer will not fit, we price a removal instead.

Timing

Thin layers lose heat quickly, so overlays need warm ground and calm weather, generally May through September here.

Overlays for lots

Commercial and church lots that are worn but sound are often milled and overlaid instead of rebuilt. Failed areas are cut out and rebuilt first, the old surface is milled at curbs and inlets so drainage still works, and a new surface goes down in sections so the lot stays open.

Height checks

Every overlay raises the surface. On a downhill driveway that ends at a garage, even an inch can send water toward the door. We measure at each joint before quoting.