Asphalt is fundamental in constructing roads, driveways, and parking lots. The flexible material allows it to adapt to underlying surface irregularities, providing a smooth ride and reducing vehicle wear and tear. However, despite its strengths, asphalt is not immune to the ravages of time and the elements. If your asphalt has cracks, what should you do about them? Top Job Asphalt has the answers.
Causes of Asphalt Cracks
Asphalt cracks are a common sight on roads and driveways. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including the following:
- Natural Aging: Asphalt loses essential oils and shrinks over time, resulting in cracks.
- Temperature Change and Weather Conditions: Asphalt contracts in freezing temperatures and expands in the heat. This cycle of contraction and expansion can cause the material to crack.
- Heavy Traffic: High pressure put on the asphalt can cause it to weaken and eventually crack.
- Water Damage: Water can seep into the small asphalt cracks and cause damage to the underlying layers.
- Poor Construction: If the base layers were improperly prepared or the asphalt improperly installed, cracks may appear sooner than expected. Moreover, a lack of regular maintenance can lead to the development of cracks.
Why Do You Need To Repair Asphalt Cracks?
Overlooking minor cracks in your asphalt surfaces can have serious consequences. Here’s why you need to repair asphalt cracks:
- Extend Pavement Life: By addressing cracks early, you prevent them from expanding and causing more damage, saving on extensive repairs or replacements in the future.
- Improve Safety: Cracks in asphalt can pose tripping hazards for pedestrians and create difficult driving conditions for vehicles. Repairing these cracks maintains a safe surface for both walking and driving.
- Enhance Aesthetics: Cracks can mar the appearance of your property, making it look neglected and lowering its value. Repairing cracks improves the overall appearance of the asphalt, contributing positively to the curb appeal and value of your property.
How To Repair Asphalt Cracks
The only way to repair asphalt cracks is to seal them. When figuring out how to seal asphalt cracks, the process varies depending on the size of the crack.
For cracks that measure between ¼ inch to 2 inches in width, the ideal solution is to use a rubberized crack sealer. This material is specially designed to fill and seal such gaps effectively. For smaller cracks, a surface treatment process can partially but adequately seal the gap.
Step 1: Clean the Affected Area
Debris — such as dust, leaves, and small stones — can prevent the sealing material from adequately adhering to the asphalt, compromising the integrity of the repair. To ensure the filler material bonds effectively, thoroughly clean the crack. Use a broom or brush to sweep away loose debris. To blow out particles from the crack, use a leaf blower or an air compressor at low pressure.
Step 2: Remove Broken Pieces of Asphalt
Fragments can create an unstable base if left inside the crack, potentially leading to a weaker repair. Secondly, they can also hinder the sealing material from adhering properly, affecting the repair’s effectiveness. To remove these pieces, employ a combination of tools depending on the crack’s depth and severity.
Step 3: Fill the Crack With Sealers
Apply crack sealer using the products recommended application method. Ensure you spread the sealer evenly over the crack to avoid air pockets and ensure complete coverage.
Step 4: Allow Time for Drying
The drying time of crack sealers varies based on weather conditions and the type of material used. Generally, allow the sealer to dry for at least 24 hours before opening the repaired area to traffic.
Repair Asphalt Cracks With Top Job Asphalt
Asphalt cracks are a common issue, but they don’t need to be a cause for concern. By understanding the causes of asphalt cracks and the importance of timely repair, you can take proactive steps to preserve the integrity and longevity of your paved surfaces. With the right materials and techniques, you can effectively address asphalt cracks and enjoy smooth, durable pavement for years.
At Top Job Asphalt, we specialize in providing high-quality asphalt crack repair solutions tailored to your needs. Our skilled crews can apply hot-pour crack sealers, ensuring a durable and long-lasting seal that withstands the rigors of daily use and seasonal changes. For DIY customers with a few cracks to seal, we offer easy-to-use cold-pour crack sealers in convenient bottles.
Call Top Job Asphalt for Asphalt Crack Repair
Don’t let asphalt cracks compromise the safety and appearance of your paved surfaces. Whether you choose Top Job Asphalt’s professional-grade hot pour sealers or our DIY-friendly cold pour options, trust that we will deliver superior results that stand the test of time. Call us today at (435) 220-3817 for a free estimate!