A few weeks ago, we discussed the different types of cracks that form in pavement. Today we are going to review four more types of cracks that can form in your asphalt. Understanding each type of crack is essential for business owners and property managers to ensure you receive the best repair service.
Each type of crack has its own distinctive characteristics to help you identify them. They each also have repair techniques that are best for them. Keep reading to see what types of cracks are showing in your parking lot and what you should do to fix them.
1. Reflective Cracks
Just as its name suggests, a reflective crack appears when materials below the surface start to crack, the same pattern eventually appears on the top layer of asphalt. Typically, these cracks are straight and can form a grid across the pavement’s surface. Most reflective cracks can be filled and sealed to ensure moisture doesn’t make its way into the pavement.
If not taken care of quickly, the cracks will worsen and significant repairs will need to be made. These repairs may require the entire section of cracks to be removed down to the underlying layer and replaced with new asphalt.
2. Fatigue Cracking
Also called alligator cracking, this is one of the worst types of cracks that can form in your pavement. This type of cracking is characterized by several small cracks that resemble the skin of an alligator or sometimes a snake. Fatigue cracks are typically caused by excessive traffic loads, improper construction or installation, or poor drainage along with temperature fluctuation.
Fatigue cracks typically require extensive repair, meaning a simple sealcoating is not sufficient in preventing additional damage. Full depth patches are needed to restore the integrity of the pavement and prevent further damage, such as potholes. If the entire surface has signs of alligator cracking, you might consider replacing all of it as opposed to a patch.
3. Seam Cracking
When installed, asphalt parking lots are typically laid in patches or small areas based on the size of the lot. Where two asphalt patches meet, a seam is formed. When these seams are not properly treated, a crack can form along the seam between the pavement joints. Water can easily find its way below the surface and damage the asphalt through these seams.
When filled on a regular basis, these seams do not pose a threat to your pavement. However, if left untouched, your parking lot could form significant damage, including fatigue cracking. Contact your local sealcoating contractor to schedule your regular crack fill and sealant application.
4. Slippage
If your pavement is showing what looks like wrinkles along with deep, open gaps, it might be forming slippage cracks. These typically form along the surface of the pavement and lookas though the asphalt is slipping. Caused by the top layer failing to adhere correctly to the layers below, slippage cracks are a sign that too much sand was used in the mix.
To repair your asphalt that has slippage cracking, it might require a full or partial patch. It all depends on the amount of slippage and severity of the cracks. Call your asphalt provider to see what is best for your asphalt parking lot.
Work With Toste Construction
If you are experiencing issues with your asphalt pavement, contact Toste Construction today. Our team is available to assess your parking lot and offer a FREE estimate on necessary repairs.
Toste Construction specializes in sealcoating and crack filling to ensure you and your customers have a smooth surface to drive on. We are your Mooresville asphalt and pavement maintenance company. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, striping, patching, pothole repair and crack filling for both residential and commercial projects throughout western North Carolina.