Asphalt Crack Sealing – How the Professionals do It!

Crack sealing is one of the most cost effective methods for repairing damaged pavement before it progresses extensively. Depending upon the climate conditions, traffic volume and load, type of sealant used, and the application method – asphalt crack sealing can extend the life of damaged pavement by between six months and four years. Given its relatively low cost, it's no wonder why many property managers are eager to use crack sealing as their first choice over milling and paving.

Avoid Cracks in the First Place!

After the first two years of a newly paved service - and every two years thereafter - have a seal coating sprayed over the entire pavement surface of your parking lot, driveway or private road; it’s inexpensive and will help protect the top asphalt layer from moisture and debris. However, do your research into the different kinds of sealer. Not all sealants are made equal. For example, Poly-Tar can last several years, while many of the competitive brands such as oil based sealers last a year.

Properly Fill Pavement Cracks

Fall is generally the best time for crack filling, as the cooling temperature opens up the cracks naturally, and making them easier to fill. 

Next, in order to do create an air tight seal, a circular spinning crack router is used to cut along the transverse and longitudinal crack lines, creating a uniform rectangular space below the surface, which allows fill material to better adhere to the reservoir walls. After routing the meandering crack lines, a thorough cleaning of the repair area follows using a high pressure blower to scatter debris and moisture. The filling process should immediately follow the cleaning process, and the filling equipment should follow behind the cleaning equipment as closely as possible.

Crack routing also allows the sealing level to be below the pavement’s surface, protecting the seal from traffic and snow removal equipment during the winter months. An effective seal prevents moisture or debris from entering the pavement’s foundation; causing further damage, and the need for more extensive and costly repair work soon thereafter.

For larger cracks, it may be necessary to place sand in the crack, to prevent the sealant material from running too deeply into the crack.

If wide areas of sealant are applied, it is recommended that aggregate or a sand mixture be placed on the fresh sealant to maintain skid resistance, especially if repairing roads or driveways.

Should I do it myself?

Absolutely not, and here's why; While there are 'do-it-yourself' sealing options out there, those methods are generally not as effective long term. It's like putting a band-aid on a gunshot wound. Professionals bring the magic three combination that is required for optimum outcomes, namely: high quality products, the correct tools and machinery, and the hands-on experience to know how to adapt a generic solution methodology to the unique conditions of your property. You get what you pay for.

And most importantly, a reputable asphalt crack sealing contractor will provide a guarantee of the workmanship that they provide. It’s how they stay in business, and why they pay attention to the finer details of your project and your property.

And besides, using a seasoned professional will give you peace of mind that the problem has been solved!