Asphalt driveway resurfacing cost per square foot

Measure the paved area, then multiply the square footage by the resurfacing rate you are comparing. Keep crack repair, low-spot leveling, edge work, drainage, and permits as separate line items when they are not included in that rate.

For an irregular driveway, split the shape into rectangles and add the areas. Use the driveway cost calculator with your own low, typical, and high local rates so the result stays tied to the quotes available in your market.

Resurfacing places a new asphalt layer over an existing pavement structure. It can be a practical choice when the driveway is worn or lightly cracked but remains stable, drains correctly, and has a usable base.

Replacement removes the failed pavement and may rebuild part of the base. Ask for replacement pricing when you see broad alligator cracking, deep settlement, repeated potholes, soft edges, or water trapped beneath the surface.

A useful quote states the measured area, preparation, finished asphalt thickness, repair scope, edge treatment, compaction, and cleanup. It should also say whether raising the surface affects a garage slab, sidewalk, gate, or drainage path.

Do not compare a surface-only overlay with a proposal that includes milling, base repairs, or drainage corrections as if they were the same job. The lower total may simply cover less work.