What causes asphalt to crack?
Asphalt cracks are primarily caused by moisture penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy traffic loads, and the natural aging of the pavement. When water seeps into the porous asphalt surface and freezes, it expands, pushing the pavement apart. Over time, UV rays from the sun also dry out the liquid asphalt binder, causing it to become brittle and prone to cracking.
Common Types of Asphalt Cracks
Understanding the type of crack in your driveway or parking lot is the first step to fixing it:
- Alligator Cracking: Intersecting cracks that look like reptile skin. This indicates a structural failure in the sub-base, usually requiring full replacement.
- Linear Cracks: Cracks that run straight down or across the pavement. These are common and easily treated with crack filler if caught early.
- Block Cracks: Large, rectangular cracks caused by temperature fluctuations shrinking the asphalt.
When Should You Worry About Asphalt Cracks?
Not all cracks are immediate emergencies, but you should contact an asphalt paving contractor if you notice:
- Cracks Wider Than ¼ Inch: Once a crack is wide enough to let significant water through to the sub-base, it becomes a structural threat.
- Pothole Formation: If cracks are beginning to chip away and form craters, the damage is accelerating.
- Spiderwebbing: As mentioned above, alligator cracking means the foundation has failed.
Preventative Maintenance is Key
The best way to prevent severe cracking is through routine maintenance. Having your pavement professionally sealcoated every 2 to 3 years protects the binder from UV damage and seals out destructive moisture.
Need an expert opinion on your asphalt cracks? Contact Davis Construction Company in Portage, WI, at 608-742-7224 for a free consultation and repair estimate.
