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Whether resurfacing concrete is worth the cost depends on the condition of the underlying slab. Resurfacing can be a good option if the concrete is in decent condition with only minor issues like standard wear and tear, small cracks, chips, or discoloration. In these cases, resurfacing adds a protective layer that can extend the concrete's lifespan without the high cost of a full replacement.

However, if the concrete has significant damage—such as deep cracks, peeling, sinking, or is broken up—resurfacing may not be worth it. The new overlay is only as good as the concrete beneath it, and existing problems like peeling and cracks are likely to show through the new surface. In situations with severe damage, replacing the entire slab is often more cost-effective in the long run and will yield a better result.

To make the best decision, it's recommended to have a licensed concrete specialist inspect the damage and determine if resurfacing is the right choice for your situation.

Concrete blemishes such as chipped steps or small cracks are fixable with patching. For bigger jobs, including driveway repair and cracks wider than a 1/4 of an inch, patches will only serve as a temporary fix. Resurfacing is ideal when the surface is showing more widespread wear—like if it’s pitted, rough, or has lots of cracks. Resurfacing gives your concrete a fresh, like-new appearance without needing a full replacement.

When the concrete is severely cracked, sinking, or otherwise structurally unsound, replacing it might be your best option. Replacement ensures the safety and longevity of the surface in this case.

The biggest downside to resurfacing concrete is its lifespan. Concrete resurfacing lasts for five to ten years, on average, while a new concrete slab would last for 20 to 30. The cost of concrete resurfacing is much lower, but you get more value from full replacement. Resurfacing also doesn’t address any underlying issues with your slab, so you may need additional repairs, like mudjacking.

The average cost to repair a concrete driveway ranges from approximately $830 to $2,800, with a typical project costing around $1,765. The price varies widely depending on the type and extent of the damage. Minor crack repairs can be as low as $0.10 to $0.15 per linear foot and may be a DIY project. More significant repairs are priced per square foot: replacing a damaged slab costs about $6 to $14, while raising or leveling sunken concrete costs $3 to $25. Resurfacing is another option, costing around $3 to $5 per square foot. Factors influencing the total price include the size of the affected area, whether reinforcement is needed, and labor costs.