Concrete · Decision Guides

Concrete decision guides

Resurface when the slab is structurally sound and the damage is surface-level; replace when the base has failed, sections have moved relative to each other, or scaling is excessive and progressing. Resurfacing runs about $3 to $10 per square foot against $5 to $8 per square foot for new plain concrete, so on badly deteriorated slabs the savings often aren't worth it.

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The question that decides this is not "how bad does it look" but "is the slab still sitting flat on a sound base." NRMCA notes a repaired surface will only be as strong as the base it bonds to, and that repairing slabs with excessive and progressing scaling may not be feasible. Any resurfacing over a slab whose subgrade has washed out or settled will crack again in the same places.

Cracks with vertical displacement — one side higher than the other — mean the ground under the slab moved. Cosmetic repair is money down a hole; the base is the problem. Flat, stable cracks that haven't changed in two years are a sealing and appearance decision.

On the finish side, the plain-versus-decorative decision is easier if you're honest about maintenance. Stamped concrete costs roughly $10 to $20+ per square foot compared with $5 to $8 for plain, and Concrete Network notes it is generally cheaper than natural stone, flagstone, brick, or pavers. Resurfacing color will not match original concrete, so a patchwork repair on colored work usually looks worse than doing the whole area.

One more comparison worth knowing: Concrete Network states concrete can last for decades while asphalt generally lasts 10 to 15 years. Higher upfront, longer runway.

How to choose

Test for movement first: Run a straightedge across the crack. Any lip means the base moved, and surface repair will not hold.
Add up repair cost as a share of replacement: Once resurfacing at $3 to $10 per square foot approaches new plain concrete at $5 to $8, replacement buys you a fresh base, fresh joints, and a new warranty.
Don't spot-repair decorative concrete: NRMCA warns repair material will not match the color and characteristics of the original concrete. On stamped or colored work, plan for the full area.
Fix drainage as part of any decision: If water pools on or beside the slab, neither repair nor replacement will last. Grade it or you'll be back.
Ask what the new job does differently: If a replacement uses the same thickness, same joint spacing and same mix as the slab that failed, you have bought the same outcome again.
Get a second opinion on "needs full replacement": It's the highest-ticket recommendation in the trade. Two independent looks costs nothing on a $10,000 decision.

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FAQ

Concrete decision guides — common questions

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Should I resurface or replace my driveway?

Resurface if the slab is sound and level and the damage is confined to the surface. Replace if sections have moved, the base has failed, or scaling is severe and spreading — NRMCA says repairing slabs with excessive and progressing scaling may not be feasible.

Is stamped concrete a bad idea?

Not bad, but it's a maintenance commitment. It costs two to three times plain concrete and depends on sealer to keep its color. If you won't reseal it, a broom-finished slab will look better in ten years.

Concrete or asphalt for a driveway?

Concrete Network puts concrete's life at decades and asphalt's at generally 10 to 15 years, with concrete costing more upfront. Climate, budget horizon and how long you plan to stay decide it.

Can I just seal over cracks?

For stable, flat, hairline cracks, sealing is a reasonable appearance and water-entry measure. For anything with displacement or ongoing growth, sealing hides a problem instead of solving it.

Sources

Where these figures come from

NRMCA CIP 2 — Scaling Concrete Surfaces · retrieved 2026-07-25
Concrete Network — Concrete Driveway Cost · retrieved 2026-07-25
Concrete Network — Stamped Concrete Cost · retrieved 2026-07-25