Paradise Asphalt Maintenance Blog Crack Sealing: The Why, When, And How

Key Takeaways:Crack sealing is a preventative maintenance measure that can extend the life of your asphalt pavement by protecting it from the elements.Crack sealing should be performed when cracks start forming in your pavement, preventing water from seeping into the cracks and causing further damage.Cracks should be sealed with a hot rubberized asphalt sealant, filling the gaps and creating a waterproof barrier.Crack sealing is most effective in conjunction with other preventative measures, such as sealcoating and regular maintenance.When performed correctly, it can significantly extend the life of your pavement and save you money in the long run.Paradise Asphalt Maintenance offers crack sealing services to customers in Independence, MO, and the surrounding areas.As a business or homeowner, you're likely familiar with asphalt crack sealing. You may know that keeping your pavement in good condition is essential to protect it from the elements, extending its lifespan, but what do you know about the process?The sealing process is often overlooked but is extremely important for asphalt pavement preservation. This process helps to prevent water and debris from entering the cracks in the pavement, which can lead to further damage and deterioration.Paradise Asphalt Maintenance will look closely at why and how crack-sealing is done.What is Crack Sealing?Cracks in asphalt or concrete surfaces can allow water to seep in and cause damage over time. Crack sealing is a preventative maintenance measure that helps extend your asphalt pavement's life. It involves filling any cracks in your asphalt with a sealant material. It prevents water from entering the cracks, which can cause damage to the pavement.Why is Crack Sealing Important?Crack sealing is necessary because it helps prevent water from entering the cracks in your pavement. Water can cause damage to thepavement by forming potholes due to the deterioration of the asphalt.When Should You Crack Seal the Pavement?Crack sealing should be done when cracks first appear on your pavement. The sooner you seal the cracks, the less chance there is of water causing damage to the asphalt pavement.How to Seal Cracks?Crack sealing is traditionally done with a hot tar material applied to the cracks with a squeegee or brush. Once the sealant has cooled and hardened, it will provide a waterproof barrier to keep water out of the gaps.What are Some Other Benefits of Crack Sealing?In addition to preventing water damage, crack sealing can help prevent snow and ice from damaging your asphalt pavement. Snow and ice can cause cracking by expanding and contracting as they freeze and thaw. By sealing the cracks, you can help to prevent this type of damage.What Are the Things to Avoid When Crack Sealing?There are a few things that you should avoid when crack sealing:- Applying sealant to cracks that are wider than ¼ inch - if the gaps are too wide, the adhesive will not be effective.- Applying sealant to cracks that are deeper than ½ inch - if the cracks are too deep, the sealant will not be able to reach the bottom and will not be effective.- Applying sealant to cracked areas that have already been repaired - if a site has been restored, there is no need to apply a sealant as it will not adhere properly to the existing repair material.Also, read our blog on how often you need asphalt paving, repair, and maintenance services.Tips for Crack SealingHere are some tips for crack sealing:- Make sure you clean out any dirt or debris from the cracks before applying the sealant. Use a wire brush to clean any loose material.- Use a heat gun to heat the asphalt around the crack before applying sealant. It will help the sealant to hold better.- Apply a thin layer of sealant - if you apply too much, it will take more time to dry and may not be as effective.- Use a putty knife or other similar tool to smooth out the sealant after it has been appliedWhat Supplies Do You Need for Crack Sealing?The materials needed for crack sealing include a crack sealant, a caulk gun, a putty knife, and a wire brush.1. A clean, Dry SurfaceBefore crack sealing, all dirt, dust, vegetation, and other debris must be removed from the cracks. It can be done with a wire brush, pressure washer, or another cleaning method.2. A Heat SourceCrack sealing must be done in warm weather as the sealant will not adhere properly to cold surfaces. Once the crack sealant has been applied and rolled into the cracks, a heat source should be used to cure it further. Use a propane torch or a flame gun to heat the surface of the gaps.3. Crack FillerOnce the surface is clean and dry, the crack filler can be applied to the cracks. Crack filler comes in various materials, including asphalt emulsion, latex, and polyurethane.4. Measuring ToolsTo ensure that the crack sealant is applied evenly, measuring tools such as a ruler or tape should be used.5. A Squeegee or BrushAfter the crack sealant has been applied, a squeegee or brush can be used to spread it evenly across the surface of the cracks.6. A Hand RollerOnce the crack sealant has been applied and spread evenly, a hand roller can be used to press it into the cracks.7. A Cold Weather SealerIn some cases, a cold-weather sealer may also be necessary to ensure that the crack sealant adheres properly to cold surfaces.8. Safety EquipmentSafety equipment like gloves and eye protection should always be worn when using any heat source.Also, check out the manual and procedures for sealing and filling cracks in asphalt-surfaced pavements to learn more.Need Asphalt Maintenance Services in Independence, MO?If you need asphalt maintenance services, contact the experts at Paradise Asphalt Maintenance, serving Independence, MO. We offer free estimates so you can get an idea of your project's cost before starting. With over 14 years of experience, we're confident that we can provide you with asphalt paving work that meets your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started!