Concrete Resurfacing Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost to resurface an existing concrete slab with a thin overlay from its size and your material and labor rates per square foot.
How this calculator works
Resurfacing cost is estimated as a blended installed rate per square foot — material (the overlay product) and labor — applied to the slab’s area.
Formula: Total cost = slab area × material rate per sq ft + slab area × labor rate per sq ft.
Worked example
A 20 ft × 20 ft slab (400 sq ft), $2/sq ft material, $3/sq ft labor:
- Area: 20 × 20 = 400 sq ft
- Material: 400 × $2 = $800
- Labor: 400 × $3 = $1,200
- Total: $2,000
Notes
A plain broom-finish overlay sits at the lower end of the cost range, while a stamped or decoratively colored overlay — meant to mimic stone or brick — costs more per square foot for both material and the extra labor of stamping and staining. Resurfacing only makes sense on a slab that’s structurally sound; a slab with active cracking or heaving needs repair or replacement first, not an overlay on top of a moving problem.
How to use
Measure your slab’s length and width, then set material and labor rates that match your overlay type — a basic broom finish or a decorative stamped/stained finish. For structural crack or settling repair instead of a cosmetic overlay, use the Foundation Repair Cost Calculator.
Estimates only. Actual cost depends on your region, overlay type (broom finish vs. stamped/decorative), and slab condition — get a contractor quote before budgeting.
Frequently asked questions
What is concrete resurfacing?
Resurfacing applies a thin cementitious overlay (usually 1/8 to 1/2 inch) directly over an existing structurally sound slab to hide cracks, stains, and pitting, or to add a stamped or colored finish. It costs far less than tearing out and repouring a slab.
Can any slab be resurfaced?
No — the existing slab needs to be structurally sound with no active heaving, major settling, or wide cracks that keep moving. Resurfacing hides cosmetic damage; it doesn't fix a slab that's failing structurally, and an overlay over a moving crack will crack again.
How long does a resurfaced driveway or patio last?
A well-installed overlay typically lasts 10-15 years or more with proper sealing and maintenance, though this varies with overlay thickness, climate, and traffic. Resealing every few years extends its life and keeps the color or texture looking fresh.
Does resurfacing include repairing cracks first?
Basic crack filling before the overlay is usually part of a resurfacing job, but major structural repairs are not — those are priced and done separately before resurfacing can even begin, since the overlay needs a stable base to bond to.
Estimates only. Verify quantities with your supplier before purchasing.