Should Concrete Be Removed Before Asphalt Paving?

Should Concrete Be Removed Before Asphalt Paving? What Jacksonville Property Owners Need to Know

When it’s time to upgrade a driveway, parking lot, or private road, many Jacksonville homeowners and business owners wonder whether they can simply lay new asphalt over an existing concrete surface. While this may seem like an easy and cost-saving shortcut, it’s not always the best solution. At P&J Asphalt Paving, we’re often asked whether concrete needs to be removed before asphalt paving—and the answer depends on several important factors, including structure, condition, and long-term durability.

Below, we break down the pros, cons, and considerations so you can make the best choice for your property.

Can Asphalt Be Installed Over Concrete?

Technically, yes. Asphalt can be laid over concrete in certain situations. Because concrete provides a firm base, asphalt can adhere and perform well for a period of time. However, while possible, this does not always make it the ideal long-term method—especially in climates like Jacksonville, where temperature fluctuations, humidity, and moisture can affect paved surfaces.

In many cases, removing the existing concrete first leads to a stronger, more durable, and longer-lasting asphalt surface.

Why Many Jacksonville Contractors Recommend Removing Concrete First

Here are the primary reasons P&J Asphalt Paving often suggests removing concrete before installing new asphalt:

Concrete Moves Differently Than Asphalt

Concrete slabs are installed in large sections with expansion joints between them. These joints allow concrete to shift as temperatures change. Asphalt, however, is a flexible material that performs best over a stable, uniform base.

When asphalt is placed over concrete, the expansion joints underneath can eventually cause cracks to appear on the asphalt surface. Over time, these cracks “reflect” through the asphalt, leading to:

• uneven surfaces
• premature cracking
• potholes
• weakened edges

This reflective cracking is one of the most common reasons asphalt overlays on concrete fail sooner than expected.

The Base Under Concrete Isn’t Always Ideal for Asphalt

Concrete driveways and parking lots often sit on a base that was designed specifically for concrete—not asphalt. Concrete slabs are usually poured over a minimal base because the material itself is strong and rigid.

Asphalt, on the other hand, relies on a deep, well-compacted foundation to support vehicles and prevent shifting.

If the existing base is too shallow or unstable, your new asphalt layer will start to:

• sink
• shift
• crack
• develop dips or soft spots

Removing the concrete first allows the paving team to rebuild and properly compact the base layer—something that significantly increases the longevity of your new asphalt.

Moisture Problems Are More Common Over Concrete

In Jacksonville, heavy rains and high humidity can cause moisture to collect between the concrete and the new asphalt overlay. Because drainage is different for both materials, trapped moisture can weaken the asphalt from below.

Over time, this leads to:

• breakdown of the asphalt binder
• early deterioration
• potholes
• sub-base erosion

Removing the concrete prevents moisture-related issues and gives the new asphalt a cleaner, more breathable foundation.

When Is It Acceptable to Leave Concrete in Place?

There are instances when leaving the concrete may be an option. For example:

• The concrete surface is structurally sound
• There is no major cracking or shifting
• The concrete slabs are stable with minimal separation
• The area has proper drainage

In such cases, the concrete can be repaired and leveled before installing an asphalt overlay. This method can save money upfront and shorten installation time. However, even in these situations, the long-term performance may not match the durability of asphalt installed on a newly prepared base.

P&J Asphalt Paving always evaluates the existing concrete structure to determine whether an overlay is a smart solution or if full removal is the better investment.

Benefits of Removing Concrete Before Asphalt Paving

While removing the concrete requires more labor and cost, it often leads to far better long-term results. Benefits include:

✔ A stronger, more stable base

The old concrete is removed, the base is regraded, and new aggregate is added and compacted properly.

✔ A smoother, longer-lasting asphalt surface

Without expansion joints underneath, the asphalt layer remains more uniform.

✔ Less cracking and fewer repairs

Reflective cracks and joint issues are minimized or eliminated.

✔ Better drainage

The new base can be sloped properly to prevent water pooling.

✔ Higher property value

Durable, smooth asphalt enhances curb appeal and reduces lifetime maintenance costs.

For Jacksonville’s climate—where heat, moisture, and heavy rainfall can take a toll on pavement—removing concrete first often results in a driveway or parking lot that performs significantly better for years to come.

Trust P&J Asphalt Paving for the Right Recommendation

At P&J Asphalt Paving, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all answers. Every property is different, and our team provides detailed inspections to determine whether concrete removal is necessary or whether an asphalt overlay makes sense for your budget and goals.

Whether you’re upgrading a concrete driveway, repaving a commercial lot, or planning new construction, our experts ensure your asphalt surface is built to last in Jacksonville’s demanding weather conditions.

FAQs: Should Concrete Be Removed Before Asphalt Paving?

1. Can asphalt be laid directly over concrete?

Yes, asphalt can be installed over concrete in certain situations, but it is not always the best long-term option. Concrete moves differently than asphalt, and its expansion joints can eventually cause cracks to form on the asphalt surface.

2. Do most contractors recommend removing the concrete first?

In many cases, yes. Removing the concrete allows contractors to rebuild and properly compact the base, resulting in a stronger, smoother, and longer-lasting asphalt surface.

3. Why is concrete a poor base for asphalt?

Concrete slabs often sit on a thinner or less compacted base because concrete is rigid and self-supporting. Asphalt requires a more flexible, compacted base. Without removal and rebuilding, the asphalt can sink, crack, or deteriorate prematurely.

4. What happens if asphalt is installed over concrete with expansion joints?

The expansion joints in concrete often cause “reflective cracking,” where cracks from the concrete slabs below migrate upward into the new asphalt layer. This reduces the lifespan and smoothness of the asphalt.

5. Does Jacksonville’s weather affect asphalt installed over concrete?

Yes. Heavy rainfall and high humidity can trap moisture between the concrete and asphalt layers, leading to erosion, potholes, and premature weakening.

6. Are there situations where concrete does NOT need to be removed?

Yes. If the concrete is structurally sound, has minimal cracking, drains well, and shows no shifting or settling, an asphalt overlay may be acceptable. A professional evaluation is required to confirm.

7. How long does asphalt over concrete typically last?

Asphalt installed over concrete may last several years, but it generally does not last as long as asphalt installed over a properly prepared base. Reflective cracking and moisture issues often shorten its lifespan.

8. Is concrete removal worth the extra cost?

For long-term durability, yes. Removing concrete and rebuilding the base typically reduces future repairs, increases the longevity of the asphalt surface, and provides a smoother, more stable finish—especially in Jacksonville’s climate.

9. How long does it take to remove concrete before paving?

Concrete removal usually takes 1–2 days, depending on the size and thickness of the slab. After removal, the base is rebuilt and asphalt is installed shortly afterward.

10. How can P&J Asphalt Paving help me decide?

P&J Asphalt Paving provides detailed evaluations of your existing concrete surface, including slab stability, drainage, and soil conditions. We offer honest recommendations based on longevity, budget, and project goals.