It is inevitable that asphalt pavement will develop cracks. Repairing those cracks quickly is one of the most important asphalt maintenance procedures to perform. Once present, cracks will continue to grow and will lead to serious problems. Moisture must not be allowed to enter beneath the surface of the pavement. Asphalt crack filler is not a difficult or expensive procedure.
How Long Does Asphalt Crack Filler Take to Dry?
Why Do Cracks Develop in Asphalt Pavement?
Cracks can appear at any time during an asphalt pavement’s life. Even new pavement can crack if the construction process was not performed correctly. If the contractor failed to ensure that the soil required no amendment or compaction of the soil, foundation, or asphalt layers was inadequate, cracks can develop within months of the pavement’s completion.
The materials used during construction can play an important role in the likelihood of early cracking. The specifications of the materials used must match the intended use of the asphalt pavement. Low-quality materials can also cause premature cracking. The professionalism and competence of the asphalt paving company will be directly reflected in the quality of the finished pavement.
Regardless of the quality of the construction, age and environmental conditions will affect asphalt pavement. Exposure to the surrounding atmosphere causes the asphalt binder within the pavement to begin the process of oxidation as soon as it is laid. Oxidation of the asphalt binder will eventually cause the pavement to become dry and brittle, losing its flexibility and strength and making it highly susceptible to cracking. The effects of oxidation become obvious when the pavement begins to appear dull and gray, but cracks can develop long before changes in the color of the pavement are noticeable.
Sealcoating the pavement can help prevent the premature deterioration caused by oxidation. A professional sealcoating contractor should perform the first application of a sealcoating material within the pavement’s first year after curing is complete. Sealcoating reapplications should be performed every 18 to 24 months or as recommended by your sealcoating contractor.
Sealcoating protects asphalt pavement in a variety of ways. It blocks damaging UV rays, enhances the natural waterproofing abilities of asphalt, and forms a tough shell that resists damage from hot tires, automotive fluids, and scuffing. In addition, sealcoating revitalizes the color of oxidized asphalt and fills minor surface voids to give the pavement a smoother appearance.
Can I Perform My Own Asphalt Crack Sealing?
Although there are do-it-yourself products available, such efforts are often a waste of time and money. They may provide a temporary fix to mend a small crack in a home’s driveway, but they are not recommended for parking lot repair. Professional asphalt crack sealing and crackfilling requires specialized equipment, experience, and knowledge to perform repairs correctly.
Professional asphalt contractors will look for the cause of the pavement crack. This may need to be remedied first. The contractor will then clean the crack to remove all dirt, debris, and vegetation. After the interior of the crack has dried, hot-pour material is applied. The hot-pour material will normally dry in less than 45 minutes, but it may take as long as two days for the curing process. Your contractor can advise you on the length of time you will need to keep pedestrians and vehicles from accessing the area.
Trust MH Greeson for Your Pavement Maintenance
MH Greeson is one of Metro Atlanta’s most-respected asphalt maintenance companies. Our services include parking lot striping and pavement marking, asphalt repair, traffic sign installation, sealcoating, asphalt crack repair, and car stop installation. We have built our exemplary reputation by consistently delivering work of the highest caliber, providing outstanding customer service, and using only the finest products and techniques. However, our rates are surprisingly competitive. To secure a free quote, simply submit the request form online or call our Marietta office at 770-335-2983.
