Localized repair: a defined failure area.
Focused repairs make the most sense when damage is limited and the pavement around it remains comparatively stable.
A repair scope may cut out and reconstruct a pothole, settlement area or failed edge. The surrounding water, base and traffic pattern still matter because they influence whether the repair addresses the cause or only the current opening.
Resurfacing: a serviceable structure with surface-led wear.
An overlay may be considered where the existing paved structure remains reasonably stable, grades and tie-ins can accept an additional layer, and widespread structural movement is not driving the visible distress.
Watch the fixed elevations
Garage slabs, drains, curbs, sidewalks and road connections cannot simply rise with a new layer. These transitions can limit or change a resurfacing plan.
Replacement: the surface cannot solve the support problem.
Widespread fatigue cracking, rutting, repeated settlement, failed drainage or unsuitable elevations may point toward removing asphalt and correcting conditions below. The exact reconstruction scope depends on what the site assessment finds.
Resurfacing signals
- Surface-led wear
- Reasonably stable pavement
- Manageable tie-in elevations
- Drainage can remain functional
Replacement signals
- Widespread structural distress
- Movement or rutting
- Base or drainage correction needed
- Transitions require resetting
Questions that make the decision clearer.
The website cannot diagnose structure from photographs alone. Use these questions to build a more useful assessment request.
Explore asphalt resurfacing and overlaysSources and review notes.
- City of Abbotsford — Stormwater Management
- City of Abbotsford — Highway Excavation Permit
- HomeStars — Abbotsford–Fraser Valley paving market context
Public sources were reviewed on August 26, 2026. They provide planning context and do not replace property-specific assessment or current authority confirmation.