Unrepaired cracks are a leading cause of major structural damage to asphalt pavements. Open cracks let water move throughout the entire pavement, inflicting particular damage to the foundation on which the pavement rests. A compromised foundation means that the pavement will lose its ability to rebound from loads, so the pavement will develop serious issues, including alligator cracking and deep potholes. The two methods that contractors typically use to repair cracks are asphalt crack sealing and filling. Each method has its own pros and cons. However, if a crack can be repaired using either method, sealing it is usually better than filling it.
Asphalt Crack Sealing Versus Filler: What Is the Best Option?
What Are the Pros of Asphalt Crack Sealing?
Crack sealing will provide a longer-lasting repair than crack filling. This is due in large part to the differences in the materials used for the repair. Crack sealer is a flexible material that will not come unglued or break when the pavement contracts or expands. Crack sealing is considered a permanent or semipermanent repair by asphalt paving companies.
What Are the Cons of Asphalt Crack Sealing?
About the only negative is that the initial repair will be slightly more expensive. However, you can recoup the difference due to the greater longevity of sealing over filling.
What Are the Cons of Asphalt Crack Filling?
Asphalt crack filler cures to a hard, inflexible state that cannot expand or contract. As such, it is not appropriate to fill working cracks; sealing is the only appropriate method for repairing active cracks. If the pavement moves, the fill material can pull loose from the walls of the crack, leaving an opening that water can enter.
What Are the Pros of Asphalt Crack Filling?
Crack filling is cheaper than sealing, so it may be a good choice if you are planning to resurface or rebuild your pavement within the next year or two. It can also be an appropriate repair method if budgetary constraints force you to either ignore the cracks or fill them; it is always better to prevent water penetration, so any repair is better than no repair. Furthermore, there are a few types of cracks for which sealing is not the preferred method of repair.
How Do I Know Whether to Fill or Seal the Cracks in My Asphalt Pavement?
Your best solution is to locate an experienced, trustworthy asphalt maintenance contractor. A reputable contractor will be happy to evaluate your pavement to determine which repair method is appropriate for the age and condition of your parking lot or other pavement. Trustworthy contractors will take into account your plans and your budget to determine whether their recommendation is a good match. In some cases, your contractor may advise that asphalt resurfacing is more cost-effective and more suitable for your pavement.
For a Free Pavement Evaluation and Quote, Contact the Experts at MH Greeson
MH Greeson is a highly experienced and well-respected paving company specializing in asphalt maintenance for clients all over North Georgia. In addition to asphalt crack repairs, we offer parking lot striping, pothole repairs, bollards, asphalt repairs, traffic signs, car stops, asphalt paving, pavement marking, and asphalt sealcoating. We have built our remarkable reputation by delivering exceptional results on every project at competitive rates. To request a free quote, call our Marietta office at 770-335-2983, or you can use the online form to submit your request.
