Overlay vs. Replacement in Cicero, IL

We test the base, compare options, and price both in Cicero, IL

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Driveway Resurfacing & Replacement in Cicero, IL — Before the First Freeze

Get your Cicero, IL driveway winter-ready: overlay vs. replacement made simple

Quick answer: If your base is sound and surface wear is ≈25–30% or less, a resurfacing/overlay is the faster, lower-cost pre-winter choice. Widespread alligator cracking, rutting, soft spots, or chronic puddles point to full replacement for long-term durability.

Call Today or Shoot us a Text (630) 827-8827

How to Choose: Overlay vs. Replacement

Overlay — good fit when:

  • Distress is minor/localized (≤25–30% of the surface)

  • Base feels firm (no “pumping” underfoot/vehicle)

  • No chronic standing water after normal rain

  • Edges intact; cracks mostly hairline

Replacement — better choice when:

  • Widespread alligator cracking or rutting

  • Soft/heaving base; patches keep failing

  • Chronic puddles/low spots; poor drainage

  • Edge-breaks or sections sinking at garage/street transitions

Quick rule of thumb: Solid base → overlay. Base/drainage failure → replacement.

What We Do (Scope of Work)

Resurfacing / Overlay (when the base is sound)

  1. Targeted milling/leveling to correct highs/lows

  2. Crack sealing and edge prep

  3. Tack coat for strong bond

  4. New asphalt wear course (proper lift + compaction)

  5. Clean edges; fresh striping if needed

Benefits: Lower cost, 1–2 day turnaround, fresh appearance, extends life
Limit: Won’t fix base or major drainage problems

Full Replacement (when the base has failed)

  1. Full tear-out of distressed asphalt

  2. Subgrade evaluation; undercut/stabilize if needed

  3. New base stone graded for drainage

  4. New asphalt lifts (base + surface), compacted to spec

  5. Finish work; smooth transitions at street/garage

Benefits: Solves root causes, resets lifecycle, strongest ROI over time
Trade-off: Higher upfront cost, 2–4+ day schedule

Timeline & Weather Window in Cicero, IL

What to expect in Cicero: Overlay often finishes in 1–2 days; replacement typically takes 2–4+ days, scheduled around the forecast. Vehicle traffic usually resumes in 24–48 hours (we’ll advise by temps/shade). Striping is same day or next suitable window.

Hybrid Plan (Best of Both)

Only parts are failing? We can replace bad sections and overlay the rest for strong ROI with minimal disruption.

Ready to Get Get Started (630) 827-8827

Why Allrite Paving (Since 1966)

  • Thicker asphalt lifts + proper compaction that outlast winter

  • Drainage-first approach (the #1 driver of pavement life)

  • Local crews, clean job sites, and follow-up you can count on

  • Options for phased work and financing to fit your budget

CTA: Want overlay and replacement priced side-by-side in Cicero? Get your free evaluation today.
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Allrite Paving has been servie Cicero, Illinois Since 1966

Cities and Surrounding Areas We Serve

FAQs (Q & A)

Is fall too late to replace a driveway in Cicero?
As long as temps permit proper compaction and bonding, no. We schedule installs around the forecast to protect your investment.

Will an overlay hide base problems?
It can cover them, not solve them. If base or drainage has failed, we recommend replacement.

What if only part of my driveway is failing?
We can replace failed sections and overlay the rest—strong ROI with minimal disruption.

How long before I can drive on it?
Most overlays allow vehicle traffic in 24–48 hours. Replacement timelines vary by scope and weather; we’ll advise on-site.

How long will an overlay last?
With a solid base and basic maintenance (crack sealing, sealcoating), overlays last many years.

Do you handle drainage issues?
Yes. We regrade for proper fall, repair base stone, and address downspouts/low spots to move water away from the pavement.