A properly installed asphalt pavement will serve you for a long time. However, a point will come in the pavement's lifespan when it weakens and shows clear signs of damage. Note that the most common way to tell that your pavement is getting old is the development of cracks on the surface. That said, filling the fissures as soon as they appear can help you mitigate the damage and prevent it from spreading. Here is a guide on everything you need to know about asphalt crack filling.
Understand the Types of Cracks
The most important thing is to understand the different types of cracks. This is because you cannot remedy all weaknesses using the same method. For example, longitudinal cracks that run along the pavement come from temperature differences or shrinkage. They could also be a result of the asphalt hardening excessively. On the other hand, transverse cracks run across the pavement and come from the freeze and thaw cycles between the seasons. On the other hand, reflective cracks can result when there is a movement in the layers beneath, while edge cracks are between the edge of the pavement and the concrete curb.
Steps Followed to Fill the Cracks
Note that a paving expert may pour hot or cold mix to seal cracks. In most cases, if the crack is large and still growing, they use the hot mix. On the other hand, if small and inactive, they will use a cold mix. Note that before applying the fillers, the experts will clean the crack to remove dirt, gravel, and all debris stuck in the gap. More so, they have specialized machinery that delivers pressurized air to the fissure and removes unwanted materials. Some also use a motorized brush for the function. Ultimately, cleaning up the space before applying the filler until the gap evens with the surrounding pavement is important.
Curing After Installation
After the installation, you have to wait several days for the crack to dry up and even out. During this time, you cannot use that part of the pavement. Note that driving your vehicle on top of a curing segment might weaken it and minimize the impact of the repair. In addition, you should apply a sealant once the area is dry to prevent further damage by the elements.
Speak to an asphalt paving contractor about the state of your driveway, and see if they can help you fill the gaps. The good news is it will be a straightforward process that will take a day, and you can get a functional pavement within a few days. For more information on asphalt paving, contact a company near you.
Share