What is the Importance of Crack Sealing?

It is just an unfortunate but inevitable fact of life that asphalt will crack. Initially, these fissures are merely superficial flaws—primarily an aesthetic issue. However, over time, even the smallest of cracks can drastically compromise the structural stability of the asphalt if left untreated. As a result, crack sealing is critical for maintaining the asphalt surface. Furthermore, using an adhesive sealant as a pretreatment dramatically improves the performance of other preventative measures such as pavement overlays.

In this blog, we will look into crack sealing and its importance.

What is Crack Sealing?

The application of specialized treatment materials (either a hot or cold sealant) into cracks to prevent water penetration and other degrading effects is what is known as crack sealing.

A cold pour is typically used for smaller cracks up to a half-inch (½) wide. A hot pour is a more durable solution used for larger cracks up to an inch and a half (1 ½) wide.

How Do You Crack Seal Asphalt?

Crack sealing should only be done on pavement that is structurally sound. The process will not be successful in repairing the cracks if the asphalt has underlying defects, extensive rutting, or crocodile cracking (more commonly known as alligator cracking).

Crack sealing is a crucial maintenance task for preventing larger structural problems. It should be done on dry pavement when the temperature is more than 40℉ but not too hot as extreme temperatures can cause the cracks to widen and compress dramatically.

Traffic on the pavement can be resumed instantly if a detoxifying chemical is used. If not, traffic should be limited until the sealant has been cured.

Why Does Crack Sealing Matter?

As previously stated, crack sealing is an essential asphalt maintenance measure. Sealing the cracks in your asphalt pavement before it is too late can prevent water from penetrating deep inside the surface.

Water penetration can speed up the deterioration process in asphalt by amplifying the contraction and expansion caused by temperature changes. Water can exacerbate cracking and lead to potholes. If water manages to get deep inside the asphalt’s foundation, it can even result in foundation failures and major structural damage.

The simple action of sealing helps prevent this extreme and costly deterioration.

Crack Sealing as a Pretreatment: Does it Work?

Crack sealing is effective not only as an asphalt maintenance procedure but also as a pretreatment for other preventive measures. Sealing the pavement before applying other treatments (such as hip seals, hot mix asphalt overlays, slurry seals, or micro seals) improves the performance of such treatments and extends the pavement’s life.

Cracksealing has a number of advantages as both routine maintenances and as a pretreatment for other preventative procedures. It is also one of the least expensive procedures, with the highest benefit-cost ratio. As a result, crack-sealing is one of the best investments you can make to extend the life of your asphalt pavement. Contact an asphalt contractor near you today to crack seal your asphalt and get the most out of your investment.

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Commonwealth Paving, 136 Outerloop, Louisville, Kentucky 40214
Phone: 502-459-7283, Fax: 502-456-2678

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