Cracks in asphalt can be filled during winter providing that the asphalt is dry. The summer heat causes the cracks to shrink so it is in fact better to fill cracks in the winter when the cold allows the cracks to expand to a greater width.
When To Crack Fill A Parking Lot?
Cracks in asphalt paving can be filled throughout its lifetime. However, only fill isolated cracks with sealant. Allogatoring (where the asphalt appears like alligator skin), is more complicated to repair and cannot simply be crack filled. The reason for this is that alligatoring or multiple cracks in the same area are a clear indication of problems with the subgrade. The closer together the cracks are grouped, the nearer the surface the failure occurs. Cracks that are further apart indicate a deeper failure.
Why Can’t Alligator Cracks Be Filled?
Aligatoring allows water to penetrate to the subgrade layer of the asphalt affecting the integrity which affects the ability of the pavement to support traffic weight. Unfortunately, when alligator cracks begin to appear, most often the only solution is complete reconstruction of the pavement to prevent further deterioration.
Should You Sealcoat After Filling Asphalt Cracks?
Definitely. Applying a seal coat prevents corrosion and oxidation of the surface layer of the asphalt. The sealcoat will bond with the crack filler when it is applied. It is important to note that the sealcoat will expand and contract through wider temperature ranges than asphalt. This can cause the sealant to chip away at the edges. There is also a notable color difference between the crack filler and the sealant. This allows you to determine whether an additional coat of sealant needs to be applied to the crack filled area in order for the two materials to blend.
What Are The Other Benefits Of Sealcoating Asphalt Pavement?
There are multiple benefits to sealcoating asphalt pavement:
– Sealcoat replaces fine particles that have been lost on older pavements.
– It is designed to prevent small cracks from expanding and turning into larger cracks.
– It protects the subgrade of the asphalt from water leaking in through cracks.
– The sealant provides a protective layer against the harmful effects of chemical spills (such as gasoline and oil) as well as the sun.
– Sealcoated surfaces are smoother and therefore easier to sweep and keep clean.
– The sealed surface offers an attractive black color making painted lines appear brighter and easier to see.
More About Ideal Sealcoating
Ideal Sealcoating offers commercial clients top-level customer service as well as expert services and workmanship. Our services include:
– Asphalt paving
– Asphalt crack prevention and repairs
– Repairs of potholes
– Sealcoating
– Concrete curbs and sidewalks
– Line striping and marking of pavement
– Thermoplastic
– Filling of cracks
– Safety signs and devices
– Site preparation
Our experience combined with the latest technology, techniques and equipment allows us to provide a cost-effective, efficient and professional service.
