You will need to have the cracks properly repaired, preferably before winter weather arrives and makes the damages worse — and more costly to repair. An overview of the differences between sealer and the materials used to repair cracks may help explain why professional crack repair is so vital.
Sealer
Sealcoating is designed to protect and enhance the appearance of asphalt. It is not designed to replace missing asphalt, which is essentially what is required to repair cracks. Sealcoating cures to a hard finish that lacks the flexibility of asphalt pavement, so sealants will not expand or contract with the asphalt when temperatures change and will therefore crack, leaving you with the same break in your pavement. Therefore, although sealcoating is a critical part of maintaining your asphalt pavement and can smooth out small imperfections on the surface, it cannot be used as crack filler.
Crack Fill
The material typically used to fill cracks is hot-pour rubberized asphalt. It bonds well with the surrounding asphalt, and since the crack fill is itself asphalt, it will react to temperature changes in the same manner. This prevents the cracks from reappearing the first time the ground freezes or temperatures skyrocket. The fill material will establish a strong bond that goes the entire depth of the crack, but it will be as resilient as the rest of your pavement.
Why Crack Repair is Vital
Cracks in asphalt pavement are more than unsightly — they are a threat to the life of your pavement. Asphalt pavement relies on a stable, strong base to give it the ability to remain flexible when subjected to traffic. Without a stable base, the pavement can sag or potholes and extensive cracking can occur. This can result in a pavement that cannot be saved, required total removal and replacement. Cracks give water a path to the base, causing erosion and weakening the pavement’s much-needed support system.
Where to Get Help
Professional maintenance and repair, such as crack filling and sealcoating, can extend the life of your asphalt pavement dramatically. If your asphalt is cracked, contact Alpha Paving Industries today. We have more than three decades of industry experience, and our highly qualified crews will provide you with exceptional results at reasonable rates. Whether you need asphalt paving or patching, pavement markings or any other asphalt-related service, we can help. Submit our online form to request a free quote, or speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members by calling (512) 677-9001.
