A method of selecting a fiber modified layer for applying on an existing surface, comprising the steps of: providing a binder mixture having an effective amount of an aggregate material, a binder, and a plurality of fibers, wherein each of the plurality of fibers has a length greater than 0.25 inches; applying the binder mixture to a selected surface to form a fiber modified proposed layer; testing the fiber modified proposed layer for fatigue or crack resistant properties, where testing the fiber modified proposed layer for fatigue or crack resistant properties comprises using a Modified Disc Compact Tension Test in accordance with Modified ASTM D7313-07; and selecting the binder mixture for application on the existing surface for performance if the fiber modified proposed layer has fatigue or crack resistant properties.