When they are properly constructed, asphalt pavements begin their lives as safe, visually appealing expanses that have the potential to last for decades before they need to be replaced. However, unless given the asphalt repair and maintenance procedures that they need, pavements can have their life expectancies cut in half, lose their aesthetic appeal, and develop issues that can place pedestrians and vehicles at risk. Although all repair and maintenance procedures matter, crack repairs should be ranked at the top of any list of the most critical procedures for asphalt pavements of all types.
Why Is Asphalt Repair Such a Big Deal?
Simply stated, cracks in asphalt pavement leave the door open for water and automotive fluids to work their way deep into the structure of the pavement. Petroleum-based automotive fluids react with the binder in the pavement, making the asphalt soft and crumbly. Water can erode the foundation that supports the pavement, increasing the risk of severe cracking, pavement subsidence, and potholes. This is why any experienced asphalt paving company of Austin will urge customers to monitor the condition of their pavements so that repairs can be made quickly to prevent serious damage.
What Type of Asphalt Repair Should I Request for a Cracked Pavement?
Austin paving companies typically recommend matching a repair method to the type of crack. For example, if the crack is about an inch in depth and width, crack sealing can be an effective method, and most parking lot maintenance Austin TX contractors can perform this type of repair. Another asphalt repair Austin contractors often use for cracks is crack filling. Usually, asphalt contractors prefer to fill inactive cracks, but they typically prefer to seal active cracks. Neither method is suitable for most alligator cracking. Instead, most asphalt paving Austin contractors repair alligator cracking by removing the damaged pavement, then installing a full-depth patch. However, only your Austin paving and repair contractor can recommend the most effective solution for your specific pavement.
Is Asphalt Crack Sealing More Effective Than Crack Filling?
When it comes to asphalt paving Austin contractors typically recommend sealing cracks rather than filling them. Crack sealing uses a flexible material that can respond to the pavement’s expansion and contraction without breaking the bond. The material used for crack filling becomes hard and inflexible when it cures, so ground movement can break the bond, or it can even force the filler completely out of the crack. Again, however, your contractor is the best source of information on which crack repair method is right for your specific pavement.
RDC Paving is an experienced provider of paving services to build, repair, and maintain asphalt and concrete pavements. Our services include crack repairs, pavement striping, asphalt driveway paving, asphalt sealcoating, concrete repair, asphalt milling, parking lot striping, concrete curbs, asphalt overlays, asphalt patching, parking lot maintenance, and asphalt paving. We have an exemplary reputation for workmanship and customer service. If you are interested in receiving a free quote, give us a call at 512-920-9155, or submit your request online by completing the request form on our website.