When Is Asphalt Crack Filling Repair Needed?
Cracks come with the territory of having asphalt paving. Excellent maintenance goes a long way in keeping paved surfaces in good condition. However, years of wear and exposure will eventually take a toll, and you'll need to invest in asphalt crack filling repair to prevent the damage from worsening. But when does cracking warrant asphalt crack repair service?
What Causes Asphalt Crack Repair Issues?
Whether you're caring for a driveway at home or managing the upkeep of a sprawling parking lot, cracks can develop for numerous reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Oxidation: Years of exposure to the sun's rays can cause asphalt to oxidize, and damaging elements like leaking vehicle fluids and corrosive road chemicals can exacerbate the problem. When oxidation occurs, the asphalt becomes brittle and can develop cracks.
- Excessive Weight: Repeated pressure from heavy vehicles and equipment can cause stress-related asphalt repair issues. That's especially true if your asphalt isn't engineered to support them.
- Seasonal Changes: Driveway crack repair is often necessary after seasonal changes. Asphalt can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, which can lead to cracks.
- Poor Installation: Unfortunately, improper installation can cause asphalt repair concerns later. Poor compaction, an unstable subgrade, incorrect engineering, and other factors can cause pavement failure.
- Subgrade Damage: If water seeps through existing voids, it can erode the subgrade below. Water penetration weakens the foundation and increases the risk of cracking.
Why Prioritize Asphalt Crack Repair?
Asphalt crack filling isn't something you should ever ignore. Failing to address cracks and voids can lead to significant damage in the not-so-distant future. Every crack is a potential entry point for water.
When water infiltrates your pavement, it can wreak havoc on your foundation. Not only will that cause additional cracks to develop, but you may also have to deal with potholes and subsidence. Eventually, you'll face serious concerns about structural integrity.
Contractors can use asphalt crack filler to mitigate those risks, restore pavement safety, and improve longevity. Hiring experts for blacktop crack filler service is a small price to pay to avoid the worst-case scenario.
What Are the Signs That I Need Asphalt Crack Filling Repair?
There are several telltale signs that you need asphalt crack filling. The first is the development of new cracks.
Voids will appear at some point during your pavement's lifespan, and you need to address them. While not all cracks require immediate attention, professional blacktop crack filler service should be a priority come asphalt maintenance season.
If the voids start to widen, seek service from experienced asphalt repair companies as soon as possible. Cracks that change have a higher risk of spreading, and potholes could quickly develop if you don't get asphalt repair.
Other defects, such as surface raveling, rutting, and general pavement deformation, also warrant professional attention. Those issues may be a byproduct of water infiltration from untreated cracks, so getting driveway crack repair sooner rather than later could be beneficial.
How Do the Best Asphalt Repair Companies Address Cracking?
There are many ways that asphalt repair companies mend cracks, and the techniques chosen primarily depend on the nature of the damage. Non-working cracks generally benefit from asphalt crack filler compounds. These cracks are less likely to spread and show little to no signs of movement.
Contractors will often clean the damaged area before filling the void with asphalt crack filler. If necessary, experts may also route the crack to maximize adhesion.
Working cracks require a more flexible asphalt crack filler and sealer. They will spread without attention and expand/contract with temperature fluctuations. Flexible blacktop crack filler provided much-needed flexibility while also keeping water out.
How Often Should I Seek Asphalt Crack Filling Repair Service?
Generally, contractors recommend investing in asphalt crack filling service at least once a year. However, all paved surfaces are different. The best approach is to have parking lot and driveway crack repair experts visit your property for regular inspections. They'll help you develop a maintenance schedule that aligns with your needs and budget.
Whether that's getting service once annually or after seasonal changes, regular asphalt crack repair is key to long-term safety and reliability.
NWS House Washing And Asphalt Seal Coating is ready to be your partners in asphalt crack repair. We have years of experience addressing issues big and small. Our team will develop solutions that work, delivering outstanding results while giving you the customer service you deserve. We believe in our work so much that we offer a one-year warranty on our work.
We're available for asphalt crack filler, repairs, sealcoating, parking lot striping, power washing, and more. Call NWS House Washing And Asphalt Seal Coating at
(570) 908-4087, email nws@usa.com, or use our
online form to reach out and receive your complimentary quote today!
