The Luxury of a Paved Surface

Since your asphalt pavement is exposed to numerous elements, it will develop cracks from time to time. For example, cracks can form due to traffic load, oxidation, ground movement, or freeze cycles. When this happens, you'll need to perform repairs immediately to prevent further pavement or parking lot deterioration. In this case, one repair solution you can consider is crack filling. Note that if the openings are filled soon after their appearance, the damages won't affect the pavement foundation and cause destabilization. Remember, base destabilization fosters the formation of cracks or potholes, leading to premature pavement failure. Here's more on asphalt crack filling.  

Why Is Crack Filling Essential?

If you haven't filled asphalt cracks before, you might wonder if this asphalt paving repair technique is worth it. However, you should know that this technique will prevent the deterioration of the paved surface. This is because, once applied, the filling will ensure moisture and other elements don't penetrate the surface and affect the foundation or break the binder that holds the asphalt together.

What Preparations Are Made Before Filling Cracks?

The first thing the asphalt contractor will do before pouring any filler on your paving is to prepare the target area. So, they will clean openings to eliminate anything lodged in the tiny spaces. Then, they will look out for dirt, dust, gravel, and vegetation. If these are present, they'll use hot compressed air or a motorized wire brush to remove these elements. Note that no matter the technique used to clear the cracks, they'll ensure the void is dry and well-prepared so the filler can bond perfectly.

Which Filler Is Suitable?

Currently, contractors use two forms of fillers to close cracks. One option is a cold pour, delivered as a liquid and drizzled into cracks to fill them. While curing, the seal will release moisture and then become rigid. However, since this filler is not heated, it won't be suitable for sealing cracks in areas experiencing cold weather. The other option is a hot-pour filler, which comes as a block. This is suitable for areas with cool temperatures because it is warmed before it's placed in the cracked areas. Overall, this seal forms a strong bond with the existing surface, making it easy to eliminate the cracks. This means that no elements will penetrate the sealed area easily.

If your asphalt paving has cracks, do not ignore them, as they will cause accelerated wear. Instead, call an asphalt paving contractor to perform crack filling immediately. The best thing about this repair procedure is that it's affordable and will prolong your pavement's life. 

Contact a local asphalt paving service to learn more.