Maintaining asphalt pavement is more important than you may initially think; it preserves longevity and structural integrity for a longer period. If you’re looking for an effective method for extending the life of your pavement, crack filling may be the answer. Crack filling helps address minor imperfections before they escalate into large and unwanted costly repairs. By understanding how crack sealing works and its benefits, you can save money on your property while keeping your asphalt in tip-top shape.
Understanding The Importance Of Crack Filling
As asphalt surfaces age, they develop cracks due to weather fluctuations, heavy traffic, and/or natural wear and tear. While small cracks may seem minor and negligible at first, they can quickly expand, resulting in further deterioration of the pavement structure. This is where crack filling comes into play. By sealing cracks in asphalt as soon as you see them, you can prevent moisture infiltration, which is a primary cause of damage.
The Process Of Crack Sealing
The crack-sealing process is straightforward but requires professional expertise to achieve the best results. First, any loose debris or vegetation within the cracks is removed. Next, the cracks are cleaned and dried to ensure proper sealant adhesion. Finally, the crack filler is applied, creating a barrier that protects against moisture and other damaging elements.
This method is particularly beneficial for asphalt pavements that experience harsh weather conditions like we do here in Canada.
Cost-Effective Pavement Maintenance
Investing in crack sealing is cost-effective when it comes to pavement maintenance. Addressing small cracks early prevents them from evolving into larger issues that require expensive asphalt repairs. For instance, a minor crack can quickly become a wide fissure if left untreated, and soon you’ll need to do a complete resurfacing or even reconstruction of the asphalt pavement. Such extensive repairs can be much more expensive than routine crack filling.
Materials Used For Crack Sealing
When choosing the type of crack filler material, you should think about factors like climate conditions, crack type and size, and traffic levels. The most commonly used material for crack sealing is:
Hot-Applied Crack Fillers
This crack filler type is often the go-to choice for areas with colder climates. Hot-applied sealants are heated to a liquid state and poured directly into cracks, where they cool and harden to form a strong, flexible seal. They are highly durable, making them ideal for sealing wider cracks and areas that experience major temperature fluctuations. Hot-applied crack fillers provide long-lasting protection and are extremely effective in maintaining the integrity of paved surfaces, even in the harshest weather conditions.
While cold-applied crack fillers may seem like an easy alternative, they are generally not as durable as hot-applied crack fillers and are rarely the best option for long-term sealing. Cold-applied fillers can fail under extreme temperature fluctuations and heavy traffic, which often leads to another phase of cracking and deterioration. On the other hand, hot-applied sealants offer flexibility and durability all in one, making them the most reliable choice for crack sealing.
Long-Term Savings
Crack filling can really save you time and money in the long run. Additionally, maintaining a well-kept pavement surface can enhance property value. An attractive, well-maintained asphalt pavement makes a positive impression on visitors and potential buyers, further justifying the investment in crack filling.
By addressing small cracks early, you can avoid the expensive repercussions of extensive asphalt repairs. Regular scheduling of crack-filling services not only protects your pavement structure but also saves money and improves the overall aesthetics of your property.