Should You Reseal Your Driveway? A 5-Minute Guide to Deciding

Driveways face daily wear from vehicles, sun exposure, rain, and temperature changes. Over time, even well-built surfaces begin to show signs of wear. If you’re noticing cracks, fading, or a rough texture, you may be wondering whether it’s time to reseal.

At Labrador Surfacing Solutions, we help homeowners and commercial property owners across Labrador, QLD, maintain the integrity and appearance of their driveways. This quick guide will help you determine whether resealing is the right move—and when to act.

What Does Resealing Do?

Resealing involves applying a protective bitumen-based sealant over your existing driveway surface. This layer serves several purposes:

  • Restores surface flexibility
  • Protects against water and UV damage
  • Reduces future cracking
  • Enhances colour and appearance
  • Extends the lifespan of your driveway

It’s a cost-effective way to protect your investment and avoid major repair or replacement work down the track.

Signs Your Driveway Needs Resealing

1. Fading Surface Colour

If your asphalt or bitumen driveway has turned grey or patchy, it’s likely lost its protective surface oils due to UV exposure. Resealing can restore its dark finish and renew surface resilience.

2. Hairline Cracks Forming

Small cracks are often the first sign of surface fatigue. If caught early, these can be sealed before water seeps in and causes deeper base damage.

3. Water Pooling or Slow Runoff

Poor drainage or water absorption may indicate your driveway’s surface is no longer sealed effectively. A new seal coat helps repel water and preserve the structural base.

4. Rough or Worn Texture

Heavy traffic can cause surface aggregate to loosen or become exposed. Resealing helps bind the top layer together, making it smoother and safer to drive or walk on.

5. It’s Been 3–5 Years Since the Last Seal

Most driveways benefit from resealing every 3 to 5 years, depending on use and exposure. If you’re nearing or past that window, it’s worth scheduling an inspection.

Benefits of Timely Resealing

  • Cost-effective: Prevents more expensive repairs or full resurfacing
  • Improves safety: Reduces trip hazards, tyre damage, and erosion
  • Boosts kerb appeal: A clean, uniform finish adds to your property’s appearance
  • Prolongs life: Sealed surfaces last longer and require less maintenance

When Resealing May Not Be Enough

If your driveway has deep cracks, potholes, or large areas of surface failure, resealing may not be sufficient. In these cases, patch repairs or resurfacing might be the better option.

At Labrador Surfacing Solutions, we assess each surface on its current condition and usage to recommend the most effective, long-term solution.

Conclusion

Resealing is a simple yet powerful way to extend the life of your asphalt or bitumen driveway. If your surface is beginning to show signs of ageing but is still structurally sound, resealing now can prevent more costly work later.

For professional driveway inspections and expert resealing services in Labrador, contact Labrador Surfacing Solutions. We’ll help you protect your investment with solutions that are tailored to your driveway’s needs and Queensland’s conditions.

This is a photo of a hardstand driveway which is in the process of being installed by Labrador Surfacing Solutions

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