Concrete Resurfacing vs. Concrete Replacement: Making the Right Choice

Cracked, discolored, or worn-out concrete can make any property look neglected. If your driveway, patio, or walkway shows signs of aging, you may wonder whether concrete resurfacing or a full concrete replacement is the best solution.

Both methods have advantages, but choosing the right one depends on factors like cost, durability, and the extent of the damage. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between concrete resurfacing vs. pouring new concrete, helping you make an informed decision for your home or business.

What Is Concrete Resurfacing?

Concrete resurfacing is repairing and refinishing an existing concrete surface by adding a new layer of specialized material. This overlay improves the slab’s appearance and functionality while maintaining its original structure.

This method is widely used for driveways, patios, sidewalks, pool decks, and garage floors that have cosmetic damage but remain structurally sound.

How To Resurface Concrete: Step-By-Step Process

Resurfacing requires proper preparation, leveling, application, and finishing to ensure durability and long-lasting results. 

Here’s how to resurface concrete:

1️⃣ Surface Preparation & Leveling – Clean the surface with a pressure washer, level uneven slabs using PolyLevel foam, fill cracks with NexusPro sealant, and apply an etching solution for better adhesion.

2️⃣ Mixing the Resurfacing Material – Use high-quality concrete resurfacing products like Vuba Stone, mixing marble stone, resin, quartz sand, and catalyst until smooth and lump-free.

3️⃣ Applying the Resurfacing Compound—Spread the resurfacer evenly using a trowel, then add texture for slip resistance. Before it dries, apply decorative finishes like stamping or staining.

4️⃣ Curing– Let the surface cure for 24-48 hours.

When To Choose Concrete Resurfacing

Concrete is Earth’s most widely used material—second only to water. However, traditional concrete replacement comes with a significant environmental cost. If the Portland cement industry were a country, it would rank as the third-largest CO₂ emitter in the world, trailing only the U.S. and China.

Resurfacing is often the best solution for homeowners and businesses looking for a sustainable, cost-effective, and efficient way to restore their concrete. But how do you know if your concrete is a good candidate for resurfacing or if full replacement is necessary? Let’s break it down.

Signs Your Concrete Is A Good Candidate For Resurfacing

Not all concrete can be resurfaced. Here’s how to tell if your surface is a good candidate:

✔ Minor Surface Damage – Small cracks, chipping, or flaking that don’t affect the structural integrity.

✔ Even, Stable Base – The concrete slab must be structurally sound without deep fractures or extreme shifting. If the surface is uneven, PolyLevel foam injection can stabilize and level it before resurfacing.

✔ Discoloration or Stains – Sun-faded or oil-stained concrete can be refinished with a fresh resurfacing layer.

✔ Surface Pitting or Scaling – If the damage is only on the top layer of the concrete, resurfacing can restore a smooth finish.

If your concrete has deep cracks, major settling, or crumbling edges, resurfacing will only be temporary. In those cases, full replacement is the better long-term solution.

Pouring New Concrete: When It’s Necessary

While resurfacing is a great way to restore minorly damaged concrete, it isn’t always the right solution. In cases where concrete is severely cracked, structurally unstable, or deteriorating beyond repair, full concrete replacement is the better long-term investment.

So, how do you know when resurfacing isn’t enough? Let’s examine the signs that indicate it’s time for a new concrete pour.

When Is Concrete Too Damaged To Resurface?

If your concrete is showing any of these signs, resurfacing will only provide a temporary fix, and full replacement is the better solution:

🚧 Deep, Structural Cracks—Large cracks in a slab can be a sign of foundation shifting, soil erosion, or excessive weight loads. PolyLevel can often stabilize and lift the slab, restoring its strength and durability. However, if the concrete has fractured beyond repair, replacement may be the better solution.

🚧 Severe Settling or Uneven Slabs – If one section of concrete has sunk significantly due to soil movement, PolyLevel foam injection may be able to lift it. But if the base is compromised, new concrete is necessary.

🚧 Extensive Spalling or Scaling – If the concrete surface is flaking, crumbling, or pitted deep into the slab, resurfacing won’t bond properly, making replacement the only option.

🚧 Exposed Rebar or Structural Damage – If reinforcement materials (like steel rebar) are visible, the concrete has likely eroded beyond repair and needs to be replaced.

Concrete Resurfacing Vs. Pouring New Concrete: Key Differences

Choosing between concrete resurfacing vs. replacement depends on several factors, including cost, time, durability, and environmental impact. While resurfacing is cost-effective and time-saving, full replacement is often necessary for severely damaged slabs.

Let’s break down the key differences so you can make the best decision for your property.

Cost Comparison: Which Option Is Better?

Cost is one of the biggest factors many homeowners consider when deciding between resurfacing and replacement. The cost depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, materials used, and long-term durability. Resurfacing is generally the more budget-friendly option, offering a refreshed look at a lower cost, while replacement requires more labor and materials, making it a bigger investment. However, if the concrete is severely damaged or structurally failing, resurfacing may only be a temporary fix, leading to higher costs down the road. 

At Ogburn Concrete Leveling & Resurfacing, we help homeowners weigh the short-term savings against the long-term value to ensure their money is well spent on a solution that lasts.

Time & Labor: Which Option Is Faster?

💡 Bottom Line: If you need a fast turnaround, resurfacing concrete is better. Replacement takes longer due to demolition, regrading, concrete pouring techniques, and curing.

Durability & Longevity: Which Lasts Longer?

💡 Bottom Line: If your concrete is structurally sound, resurfacing can extend its lifespan by a decade or more. However, for a permanent solution, full replacement lasts significantly longer.

Environmental Impact: Which Is More Sustainable?

💡 Bottom Line: If sustainability is prioritized, resurfacing is the clear winner. It minimizes waste and carbon footprint associated with concrete production.

Concrete Resurfacing vs. Replacement: Which Option Is Best For You?

Choose Concrete Resurfacing if:

✅ Your concrete is structurally sound but has minor cracks, stains, or surface wear.

✅ You need a cost-effective and quick solution.

Choose Concrete Replacement if:

🚧 Your concrete has deep cracks, severe settling, or structural damage.

🚧 You want a long-term, durable solution that lasts 30+ years.

🚧 Your slab is badly deteriorated with exposed rebar or foundation issues.

Choosing The Right Contractor For Your Concrete Needs

Whether you need concrete resurfacing or a full replacement, choosing the right contractor is critical to ensuring quality, durability, and long-term value. The right professional will assess your needs, use high-quality materials, and follow best industry practices—ultimately saving you time and money.

But with so many options available, how do you find a trustworthy, skilled, and experienced concrete contractor? Let’s break it down.

How To Find The Best Concrete Resurfacing Near Me?

• Look for Experience & Specialization – Choose a contractor with a proven track record in concrete resurfacing and repair, not just general construction.
• Read Reviews & Testimonials – Check Google Reviews, BBB ratings, and customer feedback for quality, professionalism, and reliability insights.
• Check Their Portfolio – Look for concrete resurfacing before and after photos of driveways, patios, and sidewalks to assess their work.
• Ensure They Use High-Quality Materials – Ask if they use UV-stable, highly flexible caulking designed to last 20-25 years for crack repairs and hydrophobic, environmentally friendly foam that provides extreme durability—lasting up to 1,000 years—for leveling. These materials ensure long-lasting protection and performance.
• Confirm Licensing, Insurance & Warranty – Verify that they are licensed insured, and offer warranties to protect your investment.

Why Is Ogburn Concrete Leveling & Resurfacing The Trusted Choice?

At Ogburn Concrete, we’ve served Richmond & Central Virginia for over 30 years, providing high-quality concrete repair, resurfacing, and replacement services.

💪 Here’s why homeowners trust us:

✔ Specialized Expertise – We specialize in PolyLevel leveling, NexusPro crack repair, and concrete resurfacing, ensuring flawless results.

✔ High-Quality Materials – We use top-tier resurfacing products with long-lasting durability and weather resistance.

✔ Licensed & Insured – Ogburn Concrete is fully licensed and insured, giving you peace of mind.

✔ Customer-First Approach – Our team prioritizes honest assessments, clear communication, and professional service.

✔ Proven Track Record – With hundreds of successful concrete projects and 5-star reviews, we’re Virginia’s go-to for concrete repair.

Our Concrete Resurfacing Before And After Photos

At Ogburn Concrete Leveling & Resurfacing, we take pride in delivering high-quality resurfacing solutions that revive and protect concrete surfaces. Our before-and-after photos showcase the benefits of concrete resurfacing we achieve through our processes.