Left unrepaired, moisture can and will destroy your asphalt driveway through cracks. And, as more water seeps into the asphalt through cracks, it begins to break down the material from within.
In turn, the asphalt begins to weaken and eventually crumbles. In addition, as the temperature fluctuates, the water within the asphalt expands and contracts, further exacerbating the problem.
To prevent moisture from causing damage to your driveway, it is important to have any cracks professionally repaired as soon as they appear. This will help to keep moisture out and prevent further deterioration of the asphalt.
The preferred and most reliable way for repairing asphalt highways and parking lots is to fill the cracks with hot, rubberized asphalt. In many cases, this repair method also works great for your private asphalt drive.
How It Works
Hot-filling asphalt cracks is a relatively simple process that can be completed very quickly and is ready for traffic as soon as 20 minutes after completion:
- The area to be filled is cleaned of any debris or dirt.
- The crack is heated using an infrared heat lamp or propane torch.
- Once the crack is heated, a small bead of hot asphalt is applied to the surface.
- The asphalt is spread evenly across the crack.
Hot-filling asphalt repairs cracks very quickly and efficiently. The heat also helps to bond the rubberized asphalt with the hardened asphalt pavement that surrounds it, creating a seamless repair.
Hot-filling asphalt cracks is an effective way to extend the life of your pavement and prevent further damage. You can also have your driveway resealed afterward to further protect it from weather damage.
A Qualified Paving Contractor
Over time, all asphalt driveways will succumb to the elements and start to show signs of wear and tear. The climate where you live can make a huge difference.
The good news is that damage to an asphalt driveway can often be repaired quite easily. cracks and small holes can be filled in with asphalt filler, while larger cracks may require the use of an asphalt patch.
In some cases, the damage may be extensive enough that the entire driveway needs to be repaved.
If you're not sure how to proceed, a qualified paving contractor can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. They will also be able to efficiently complete any work that needs to be done, and you'll be back to driving on the driveway in no time.
Reach out to an asphalt paving contractor to learn more.
