As the seasons slowly start to shift into spring here in Western New York, it’s almost expected that the winter weather left some homes and businesses with various kinds of cracks around their asphalt driveway or parking lot. Not all cracks are created equally as there are a variety of different kinds of cracks that can form for different reasons. Understanding what kind of cracks your asphalt has can help uncover the underlying issue so that the necessary repairs can be made to prevent future complications.
Longitudinal Cracks
Longitudinal cracks run parallel to the center line. These cracks can have a variety of causes but most commonly are a result of poor joint construction and pavement wear and tear. If the crack is ½ an inch wide or less it can be sealed to keep moisture out. However, more severe cracks may require the cracked pavement to be removed and replaced with an overlay.
Alligator Cracking
One of the more common signs of wear and tear when it comes to your asphalt is alligator cracking. Alligator cracking is commonly caused by a weakness in the surface, base or sub-grade. Usually beginning in the wheel path as longitudinal cracking, after repeated stress alligator cracking begins to form. These patterns can resemble the scales on an alligator’s back. More often than not, the only solution to fix alligator cracking is a full depth patch.
Transverse Cracks
Transverse cracks are single cracks that run perpendicular to the pavements center line. These cracks are usually caused by reflective cracks in a sublayer, or improper operation of the paver machine. If the crack is ½ an inch wide or less it can be sealed to keep moisture out. However, more severe cracks may require the cracked pavement to be removed and replaced with an overlay.
Edge Cracks
Edge cracks run along the inside edge of the pavement, within the first 2 feet. The most common cause of edge cracks is poor drainage conditions and a lack of support at the edge. Heavy vegetation along the edge of the asphalt can also be a contributing factor. Fixing edge cracks may require the removal of the surrounding vegetation and if the crack is ½ an inch wide or less it can be sealed to keep moisture out. However, more severe cracks may require the cracked pavement to be removed and refilled at full depth.
Baughman Magic Seal: Asphalt Crack Sealing
Is your parking lot plagued by cracks or other asphalt issues? Whether you are trying to avoid developing serious issues by taking advantage of our preventive maintenance such as seal coating, or your parking lot needs repairs, call Baughman Magic Seal today at (716) 836-8880.