We offer two main approaches: milling and replacing the surface layer, commonly called mill-and-fill, and placing a new asphalt overlay directly on prepared existing pavement.
Asphalt Resurfacing Methods: Mill-and-Fill vs. Asphalt Overlays
Which method fits depends on surface elevation, curb and door heights, drainage and the type of distress. Both rely on the same principles: a clean, sound surface, proper bonding and compaction to density.
Asphalt Resurfacing by Milling: Cold Planer Parameters and Surface Removal
A cold planer grinds the top 1.5 to 2 inches of asphalt, removing cracked, oxidized material and restoring the correct profile. Milling allows new asphalt to be placed without raising the grade at gutters, garage doors and drains, and the reclaimed material can often be recycled into new asphalt. Planer cutting depth and slope are set by the crew to correct crown and cross-fall as it goes.
Asphalt Resurfacing by Overlay: Preparing Existing Pavement for New Asphalt
Where grade height allows, a new overlay is placed over cleaned, patched and tack-coated pavement. Preparation is everything: failed areas are removed and repaired, cracks are treated, and a tack coat ensures the new layer bonds rather than slips. Overlays are typically at least 1.5 inches thick, and thicker where traffic or irregularity demands.
Asphalt Resurfacing and Reflective Cracking: How We Slow It Down
Cracks in old pavement tend to telegraph through a new overlay, a phenomenon called reflective cracking. Proper crack treatment, adequate overlay thickness, milling when appropriate and, in some cases, interlayer systems help slow that process.
Asphalt Resurfacing Suitability: When an Overlay Is the Right Choice
Resurfacing is a good fit when cracks are limited, the pavement drains, the base remains firm and distress is mostly in the top layer. It is a poor fit when you see alligator cracking, pumping fines, deep ruts, frost heaves or soft areas that flex underfoot, because those signal base problems that a new surface will not cure. In those cases, targeted asphalt repair or reconstruction is better value over time.
Many Spokane properties use a hybrid approach: remove and rebuild the failed sections, then overlay the whole area for a uniform surface. We price these options clearly so you can choose what fits your budget.
Cost insight: Resurfacing generally costs significantly less than reconstruction, but only when the existing base is sound. A pre-paving evaluation prevents wasted spend.
Asphalt Resurfacing Process: Evaluate, Prepare, Place and Compact
- Pavement evaluationWe probe cracks and soft areas and decide where repairs are needed.
- Repair failed areasFailed sections are cut out and rebuilt before the overlay.
- Milling or surface cleaningSurfaces are milled or thoroughly cleaned of dust and debris.
- Crack treatmentActive cracks are routed and sealed or treated to reduce reflective cracking.
- Tack coat applicationA uniform tack coat is applied to bond the layers.
- Hot-mix overlay placementA paver places the new surface course at specified thickness.
- Compaction and edge tie-insRollers compact the mat and edges are feathered into gutters, doors and drives.
Asphalt Resurfacing Service Areas: Spokane, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Cheney and Airway Heights
We provide asphalt resurfacing throughout Spokane County. Choose your location to see local conditions, soils and paving considerations for your area.
- Asphalt Resurfacing in Spokane, WA
- Asphalt Resurfacing in Spokane Valley, WA
- Asphalt Resurfacing in Liberty Lake, WA
- Asphalt Resurfacing in Cheney, WA
- Asphalt Resurfacing in Airway Heights, WA
Asphalt Resurfacing FAQ: Answers From a Spokane Paving Contractor
Asphalt Resurfacing Lifespan: How Long Does an Overlay Last?
With a sound base and good maintenance, an overlay can add many years of service. The base condition and drainage determine the outcome.
Asphalt Resurfacing Thickness: How Thick Is a Typical Overlay?
Most overlays are 1.5 to 2 inches, increased for heavier traffic or when correcting profile.
Asphalt Resurfacing Timing: Is There a Best Season?
Warm, dry weather gives the best bonding and compaction. We schedule resurfacing from spring through early fall.