Paving
Mill & Overlay and Asphalt Resurfacing in Phoenix
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What it is
What asphalt milling and resurfacing involve
Mill and overlay is a two-step resurfacing process. A milling machine grinds off the damaged top layer of asphalt to a set depth, then new asphalt is placed and compacted in its place.
Milling matters because it lets the new surface sit at the same height as the old one. Laying asphalt over the top without milling raises the grade, which can cause problems at curbs, gutters, doors and accessible routes.
Compared with full replacement, resurfacing keeps the existing base and costs less. Compared with sealcoating, it solves a deeper problem: a surface that is too worn, cracked or oxidized to protect.
When you need it
When your lot needs a mill and overlay
Resurfacing fits lots where the surface is spent but the structure underneath is still doing its job.
- 01
Widespread surface cracking
Cracking across most of the lot, beyond what crack sealing can handle, is a sign the surface layer is done.
- 02
Raveling and oxidation
A dry, loose surface that is shedding aggregate is past the point where a seal coat helps.
- 03
Too many patches
A lot that is mostly patches has outgrown spot repair.
- 04
You need to keep your grades
If curbs, gutters, doors or drainage depend on the current height, milling keeps the finished surface where it was.
- 05
When it is not the answer
If the base has failed across large areas, resurfacing will not last. That lot needs full replacement.
Process
Our mill and overlay process
- 01
Evaluate the base
We assess whether the base is sound enough for resurfacing and identify spots that need repair first.
- 02
Repair failed spots
Soft or failed areas are repaired so the overlay has a stable foundation.
- 03
Mill to depth
The existing surface is ground to the specified depth and the lot is cleaned.
- 04
Place and compact the overlay
A tack coat is applied, then new asphalt is placed and compacted. Utility covers and transitions are adjusted and finished.
- 05
Stripe
The lot is restriped, including accessible stalls and fire lanes, and opened to traffic.
Phoenix factors
Resurfacing in Phoenix conditions
Heat and timing
Asphalt placement depends on temperature and on keeping your tenants' access open. We plan the schedule and sequence in the estimate.
Drainage after resurfacing
Changing the surface can change how water moves. We check that the finished grades still drain, which matters during monsoon storms.
ADA after resurfacing
Slopes at accessible stalls and routes are checked as part of the plan, since resurfacing is when they are most easily changed by accident.
Utility covers and curbs
Manholes, valves and curb or gutter edges need to match the new surface height.
Cost
What affects mill and overlay cost
Resurfacing is priced by area, but depth and condition decide how far each square foot goes.
- Area
- Total square footage of the lot and how it is divided.
- Milling depth
- How deep the existing surface needs to come off.
- Overlay thickness
- How much new asphalt the traffic requires.
- Base repairs
- Failed spots that must be fixed before the overlay.
- Grade and drainage work
- Adjustments needed to keep water moving and edges flush.
- Utility adjustments
- Raising or lowering manholes, valves and cleanouts to the new surface.
- Access and schedule
- Phased work, after-hours work and tenant coordination, plus the final striping.
FAQ
Mill & Overlay FAQs
What is the difference between mill and overlay and full replacement?
Mill and overlay removes only the top layer and keeps the base. Full replacement removes the pavement down to the subgrade and rebuilds it. The first costs less but only works when the base is sound.
How deep do you mill?
It depends on the condition of the pavement and the design for the finished surface. The depth is specified in your estimate.
Can you overlay without milling?
Sometimes, but it raises the grade and can create problems at curbs, gutters, doors and accessible routes. Milling first is usually the better choice.
How long does a mill and overlay take?
It depends on the size of the lot and how the work is phased. Your estimate lays out the sequence and closure windows.
Will my lot stay open during the work?
We phase the work so tenants keep as much access as possible. Parts of the lot will be closed while they are milled and paved.
What happens to the milled asphalt?
Milled asphalt can often be reused in new asphalt mix. We will confirm how it is handled on your project.
Is your lot a resurfacing candidate?
Tell us about your property and the work you have in mind. You will get a clear scope and a detailed proposal.
Serving the Phoenix metro
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, Goodyear, Queen Creek, Tolleson
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