When asphalt starts to show signs of cracking, it is essential for them to be filled. Doing so will prevent moisture intrusion and additional damage to the asphalt. It is important to create a water-proof barrier when cracks show to help extend the life of your pavement.
Cracks form from erosion, traffic weight, UV rays, or chemical damage.
When it comes to filling the cracks, there are two options available; hot or cold sealant. To decide which is best for your asphalt, it will depend on the job and the equipment available. We are going to discuss each of them today.
Hot Crack Sealant
Hot applied crack sealant refers to the sealant being warmed before being applied to the asphalt and fills the crack. If you are a property manager or business owner, you do not necessarily need to be concerned about the equipment needs, however, if this is what you prefer, you should communicate this to your contractor. They will need to have a direct fire machine and oil jacketed kettles.
Cracks up to ¾” wide can be filled using a hot crack sealant. Anything larger than that, a cold applied sealant is necessary, but we will dive deeper into that later. A hot crack sealant must also be applied when the surface is at least 40 degrees. This allows for a larger application window than cold crack sealant.
Before the hot sealant is applied, the surface and cracks must be cleaned. This ensures the cracks are free from moisture, dust, debris, and any loose aggregate. If necessary, cracks can be routed and scrubbed with a wire brush to thoroughly clean it. Hot applied crack sealant is often applied by a professional sealcoating contractor as it requires special equipment. Once applied, it is essential to use a squeegee to ensure a good seal and prevent further cracking.
Cold Crack Sealant
Cold applied crack sealant is great for asphalt driveways, walkways, or areas with light traffic. It is referred to as cold sealant because it does not need to be warmed before it is applied to the asphalt. Cracks up to 1” wide can be filled using a cold crack sealant.
Cracks up to ½” wide can be filled using a pourable sealant while anything up to 1” wide requires a trowel grade crack filler. The surface needs to be at least 50 degrees for a minimum of 24 hours for the sealant to be properly applied. Once the crack sealant is applied, it needs to completely dry before any traffic should be allowed on it.
Your Crack Sealant Professionals
If you are located in the greater Charlotte, NC area and your asphalt is in need of attention, Toste Construction is here for you. We are will assess your pavement and provide you with a FREE estimate for all necessary work. Contact us today to schedule.
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.