Proper construction by a reputable, professional, knowledgeable and experienced asphalt contractor is the best way to ensure the integrity and longevity of your pavement. However, periodic maintenance is also vitally important to obtain the maximum life for your asphalt with a minimum of costly major repairs. Significant cracks should not appear until several years after the pavement is constructed, but all asphalt pavements will crack eventually. The most important thing is to address those cracks as quickly as possible. The longer a crack is left unrepaired, the more potential damage it can cause.
When Is Asphalt Crack Filling Needed?
What Causes Cracks in Asphalt Pavements?
The most common cause for cracks to appear on asphalt pavement is poor construction. Frequently, property owners and managers are very happy and excited to see the beautiful new surface of their parking lot or other pavement. What many do not realize is that what lies beneath the surface will control how long that beautiful new pavement lasts.
The composition of the soil that the asphalt will rest on must be understood and amended as needed. The base and subbase must be constructed from the right materials and installed properly to support the anticipated load that the pavement will bear. Furthermore, the asphalt material must be properly calculated and mixed to provide a surface adequate to support the anticipated load and to withstand the environmental conditions expected in the location where the pavement is built.
Asphalt begins to age as soon as it is installed and is exposed to oxygen. The oxidation process weakens the asphalt binder over time. The sun’s UV radiation will also cause the binder to deteriorate prematurely. The deterioration of the binder will allow cracks to form. Any cracks that appear can potentially allow water to percolate through the asphalt layers and reach the base, resulting in an eroded, weakened, unstable base that encourages additional cracking. Freeze and thaw cycles can intensify the severity of any cracks that develop.
How Are Cracks Repaired?
Most cracks can be repaired in one of two ways. Depending on the type of crack, it will be either filled or sealed. Your asphalt contractor will determine the method necessary to properly repair the crack. Performing an asphalt crack repair as soon as a break appears is critical for preserving the integrity of the asphalt. Asphalt crack sealing and asphalt crack filling are simple tasks for the professional contractor. Hiring a professional will ensure that the necessary steps are taken to perform the repair correctly.
How Do I Prevent Cracks in My Pavement?
A well-designed, professionally executed asphalt maintenance program can significantly decrease the likelihood of major repairs. Water must not be allowed to penetrate the asphalt surface, so repairing cracks and potholes is vital. Sealcoating the asphalt surface every two or three years is also important. Contact a reputable sealcoating contractor to determine the right schedule for sealing your pavement and to perform the work. The sealcoating material helps prevent water infiltration and blocks UV rays.
Always keep the asphalt surface clean. Remove any trash or other debris immediately. Trash, debris and vegetation can trap moisture and facilitate water penetration. Live vegetation should never be allowed to grow on the asphalt surface. Have any live vegetation removed and any needed repairs immediately performed.
Watch for areas of the asphalt surface that hold water after a period of rain. Pooling water could indicate base problems or an easily corrected drainage issue.
Remove vehicle fluids from the asphalt surface immediately. Oil, gas and other chemicals can severely damage asphalt pavements.
Get Professional Assistance
The asphalt maintenance experts at MH Greeson would be happy to help you obtain the greatest value possible for your investment in an asphalt parking lot or other type of pavement. We offer sealcoating, asphalt crack repair, parking lot striping, bollards, traffic signs and other asphalt maintenance and repair services Marietta, Metro Atlanta and throughout most of North Georgia. We can tailor a routine maintenance program to match your specific asphalt pavement and your budget. We are known for exceptional work, affordable rates and exemplary customer service. Fill out the online form or call 770-335-2983 to request a free quote.
