Asphalt is one of the most popular paving materials. It is durable, flexible, and long-lasting. Over time though, asphalt can develop cracks. You must seek immediate professional help to prevent further damage and keep your pavement looking its best.
If you think your asphalt driveway is beyond repair, you must think again! Contrary to popular belief, most driveways and parking lots can be saved with a little bit of TLC – namely, filling and sealing the cracks.
Let’s look at the details to understand the issue better.
Active and Passive Cracks:
There are two categories of cracks that commonly form in asphalt: active and passive.
Active asphalt cracks are also called live cracks. They expand in length, width, and depth over time. These cracks develop due to external forces, such as heavy vehicles or tree roots. These cracks can be difficult to repair due to their size. The leading cause is overloading and thermal expansion, e.g., cracks due to freeze-thaw.
On the other hand, passive cracks are caused by weathering or wear and tear. They tend to be smaller and easier to fix. By filling and sealing these cracks, you can prevent them from becoming active cracks.
Common Asphalt Cracks
Before we get into crack filling and sealing, let’s look at the most common types of cracks. It will help you better understand what kind of repair your asphalt needs.
The three most common types of asphalt cracks are:
Alligator Cracking: Also known as spider webbing, alligator cracks are characterized by a network of small cracks that branch out from the main crack. This type of damage is usually caused by poor drainage or too much traffic.
Block Cracking: Block cracking looks like a series of large, connected squares. It’s usually caused by shrinkage as the asphalt dries and cures.
Linear Cracking: Linear cracks are long, thin cracks that run in a straight line. They can be caused by temperature changes, heavy traffic, tree roots, and poor drainage.
Filling and Seal Coating Asphalt Cracks:
The best way to prevent damage from asphalt cracks is to fill and seal them as soon as they appear. Filling cracks with a sealant will help stop water from seeping into the crack, which can cause even more damage. Seal coating your pavement will also protect it from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can cause fading and cracking.
Is the Process Easy?
Filling and sealing asphalt cracks is easy and does not require special equipment or training. However, it is essential to choose a suitable sealant for the job. There are many different sealants on the market, so be sure to consult with a professional before purchasing.
Does Your Asphalt Pavement Require Maintenance?
Regular maintenance of your pavement will extend its life and keep it looking its best. Because of this, we recommend seal coating your pavement every two to three years. It will protect it from the elements and keep it looking new for years to come. Contact your local paving contractor to learn about asphalt crack repair solutions for your home.
Summing Up:
For over six years at Straight Edge Contractors LLC, we have been repairing and maintaining houses and businesses in El Paso, TX. Our unmatched asphalt crack repair and maintenance services will keep your property looking brand new for a long time.
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All-Inclusive Asphalt & Concrete Paving Company Serving El Paso, Texas.
We Construct Stunning Commercial & Residential Pavement Assets While Protecting Your Investment
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