How much for a full driveway resurface in Ottawa?

Driveway resurfacing in Ottawa typically costs $2,500 to $5,500 for an average residential driveway (40-60 square metres), depending on the existing surface condition, size, and accessibility.

Asphalt resurfacing involves applying a new 40-50mm layer of hot-mix asphalt over your existing driveway surface. This works well when the existing base is stable and damage is limited to surface cracking, minor rutting, or worn sealcoat. The existing surface is cleaned, cracks are filled, and a fresh asphalt lift is applied and compacted. Cost ranges from $4.00 to $7.00 per square foot installed.

However, resurfacing is only viable if your existing driveway has good bones. If you have significant cracking (alligator cracking, large potholes, edge deterioration), base settlement, or drainage issues, an overlay simply locks those problems beneath a thin new surface. Within 1-2 Ottawa winters, every crack and movement from below will reflect through the new asphalt. In these cases, full removal and replacement ($5,000 to $12,000) is the only durable solution.

Ottawa's extreme freeze-thaw cycles are particularly hard on overlays. Water penetrates any hairline cracks in the new surface, reaches the interface between old and new asphalt, and creates delamination during freeze-thaw. This is why many Ottawa contractors prefer full replacement over resurfacing unless the existing surface is in genuinely good condition.

Key factors affecting resurfacing cost include:

• Driveway size and shape - Complex layouts with curves or multiple levels cost more


• Surface preparation required - Extensive crack filling and patching increases cost


• Accessibility - Driveways requiring hand work or smaller equipment cost more per square foot


• Timing - Peak season (May-June, September) commands premium pricing

When resurfacing makes sense: Your driveway is 10-15 years old, has only surface-level cracking, no base settlement, and proper drainage. When it doesn't: Extensive cracking, potholes, edge failure, water pooling, or base movement.

A quality paving contractor will assess whether your existing driveway is a good candidate for resurfacing or requires full replacement. Get 3+ quotes and ensure contractors explain their recommendation - resurfacing a failing base is throwing good money after bad.

Need help finding a driveway contractor? Ottawa Driveways can match you with local paving professionals for free estimates on your resurfacing project.