How To Properly Prepare Asphalt Cracks for Repair

Regular asphalt crack repair is a vital part of any solid asphalt maintenance plan. Cracks are a common issue that plagues asphalt surfaces. However, you should never ignore them. Every crack can allow water to penetrate the surface, leading to potholes, subsidence, and major structural integrity issues. Fortunately, asphalt crack repair companies can easily fill and seal voids. Here's what you need to know about how to prepare asphalt cracks for repair.

Why Do You Need to Prepare Asphalt Cracks for Repair?

Preparation is vital for any form of asphalt repair work. Whether filling cracks or applying an asphalt patch, preparation ensures that the work lasts. Without preparation, repair compounds may not bond to the existing pavement.

While the finished results might look fine, that lack of preparation means that it's only a matter of time before the asphalt crack filler or sealer deteriorates. You want the asphalt repair to last as long as possible, and proper prep is key to achieving that.

How To Properly Prepare Asphalt Cracks for Repair

Will Overgrown Vegetation Interfere with Parking Lot or Driveway Crack Repair?

Overgrown grass and weeds are notorious for interfering with driveway crack repair. If left unaddressed for too long, vegetation often takes root in cracks and voids. Of course, asphalt repair companies can't apply filler or sealers when there's plantlife in the way. Doing so will only create a weak bond, and the vegetation's deterioration will likely cause the asphalt repair to fail.

Contractors should clean up any surrounding vegetation and pull invasive weeds by the roots before doing an asphalt patch or crack repair job.

Why Do Contractors Sometimes Route Asphalt Cracks for Repair Work?

It's common for asphalt repair companies to route cracks before repairing them. The routing process involves widening and deepening the void. The best asphalt repair contractors will be precise about routing, making the base of the crack wider than the surface.

But why?

It can seem counterproductive, but routing can actually improve longevity. The goal is to increase the bonding surface area, giving the asphalt crack filler plenty of space to adhere to the existing pavement. When routed correctly, the broad crack base also helps prevent the repair compound from popping out.

How Important Is Cleaning Before Asphalt Crack Repair?

There should be no dirt or debris in the cracks. The goal is to have the asphalt crack filler bond to the asphalt. Dirt and debris will only get in the way, leading to weak adhesion and early failure.

Cleaning is a must. That applies to any form of repair, including asphalt patch jobs. The best asphalt repair companies will be vigilant about cleaning, ensuring voids are entirely free of anything that could interfere with bonding and curing.

Is It OK to Apply Asphalt Crack Filler When the Pavement Is Wet?

The best parking lot and driveway crack repair professionals will use a hot air lance when preparing your pavement. Hot air lances, as well as similar tools, help evaporate any moisture on the pavement and in cracks.

Like dirt and debris, moisture will prevent the asphalt crack filler from adhering to your pavement as it should. Even a small amount of moisture from morning dew will create problems, so contractors should use tools to evaporate every last drop.

When you turn to NWS House Washing & Seal Coating, you don't have to worry about a lack of adequate surface preparation. We're asphalt repair experts with years of hands-on experience filling and sealing cracks throughout Southern New York and Northeastern Pennsylvania. Our team knows how to do things correctly and never cuts corners. We strive to deliver five-star results every time, going above and beyond to ensure outstanding results.

In addition to asphalt crack repair, you can turn to us for general asphalt repair work, sealcoating, parking lot striping, power washing, and more. Give NWS House Washing & Seal Coating a call today at (570) 908-4087, email nws@usa.com, or use our online form to reach out and receive your complimentary project quote.

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