As a business owner ourselves, we get it, spending extra money on a project is never what you want to do or hear is needed. However, when it comes to your asphalt parking lot and roadways, cutting back is never a good idea. To simply answer the question, yes, cracks need to be filled before your parking lot can be sealed.
But, why? Toste Construction is here to help you understand the sealcoating process and why crack filling is essential.
What is Sealcoating?
Sealcoating is the process of applying a thin layer of sealer to asphalt. By doing this, the binder that is often lost through weathering and aging will be replenished. Asphalt sealer is essential because it provides a barrier to moisture intrusion as well as UV rays, chemicals, and salt.
Over time, your asphalt will begin to break down from these items and require maintenance. While the entire parking lot will not need to be replaced, a layer of sealcoating will do the job.
By adding a layer of sealant, not only are restoring the binder, but also protecting the lower layers of asphalt and extending the lifespan of your parking lot.
What is Crack Filling?
Crack filling is exactly how it sounds – applying filler to the cracks in asphalt pavement. Doing this on a regular basis can help prevent moisture from finding its way into the pavement by providing a water-proof barrier.
Cracking is inevitable when it comes to asphalt because of Mother Nature, traffic loads, and patterns that travel through the parking lot or roadway. The more a crack is left unrepaired, the worse it will get. This could mean it could grow into a larger crack, the cracking could expand to other areas of the parking lot, or even a pothole could form from a crack.
A crack is typically formed when water gets under the surface of the asphalt and quickly wears away the pavement. Cracking can also occur from heavy vehicle traffic or improper installation. Your asphalt contractor can assess your parking lot and help you determine the cause of the cracking in order to properly repair it.
Why Do Cracks Need To Be Filled?
If you are wondering why cracks need to be filled before the sealant is applied because the sealer could just be used to protect the crack, you are not alone. Many business owners or property owners do not fully understand this and that is why we are here.
A hot or cold crack filler will be applied to fill a crack. The sealant used during sealcoating is a thinner substance and will not fix the crack. Sealing an unfilled crack means the crack will continue to grow and get worse below the surface. This is exactly the reason why cracks need to be filled before a sealant is applied. Failing to do so will require more extensive repairs down the road and likely a new layer of sealant added.
Work With Toste Construction
Spending a little extra now will end up saving you in the long run. Toste Construction is here to answer all of your sealcoating answers and provide you with a FREE estimate to complete your parking lot. Contact our team now to discuss your needs and schedule your estimate.
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.