Cracks are the most common problem you will encounter in your asphalt driveway.  However, when not dealt with accordingly on time, it will lead to further deterioration in the asphalt surface.

So, why spend extra on replacing the driveway when you can get these unsightly cracks easily fixed?

Timely repairs maintain the integrity of your Asphalt pavement.

Further, Asphalt Crack Repair is the most cost-effective form of asphalt repair considering its low cost and the success rate.

Now, let’s move ahead in the given section and understand about what is asphalt cracks, its types and repair methods to solve this issue.

What Is Asphalt Cracks?

Asphalt cracks are part of the normal life cycle of an asphalt pavement or driveway. These are little fractures that are often the first sign of damage in the asphalt surface.

While asphalt is one of the most durable options to pave your driveway, it can sometimes get compromised due to inevitable factors.

These factors often include fluctuating weather conditions and heavy traffic overload.

Moreover, oxidation can also cause cracks in the asphalt surface.

Depending on the case, some cracks can be traffic load related and some can be due to changing weather conditions.

But before deciding on the right crack repair method, you need to understand different Asphalt Cracks Types common in an asphalt pavement.

Different Types of Cracks in Asphalt Pavement

There are several different types of cracks you may encounter in the lifetime of the asphalt pavement.

Interestingly, different cracks require different solutions. That’s why experts recommend consulting a Professional Asphalt Crack Repair company to get the right repair solution.

#1. Edge Cracks

These cracks develop on the outer edge of a pavement. They usually start on the sides and then move towards the center. That’s why these cracks pose a big risk to vehicles and are important to fix as soon as possible. Further, seasonal thaw cycles can widen these cracks.

#2. Longitudinal Cracks

Longitudinal cracks run parallel along the centerline of the asphalt pavement. These usually are a result of poorly constructed joint, temperature shifts, and asphalt layer shrinkage.

#3. Transverse Cracks

This cracking runs across the pavement and are perpendicular to the centerline of the pavement surface. These are not load related and are usually caused due to pavement shrinkage.

#4. Block Cracks

These typically appear at the end of the pavement life-cycle. This cracking are generally rectangular or square shaped covering large areas. The leading cause behind these cracks is asphalt shrinkage due to temperature fluctuations.

#5. Alligator Cracks

Alligator cracking is a series of interconnected cracks running closely on the asphalt surface. These Alligator Cracks in Asphalt Pavement are pretty extensive in appearance. If not treated on time, these can widen and lead to bigger damage areas.

Repeated traffic overload is the number one cause behind enough deterioration of the asphalt layer to develop alligator cracking.

Now you know what kind of asphalt crack you’re dealing with. The next step is to know about different repair methods for Asphalt Crack Repair.

Asphalt Crack Sealing vs Filling | How to Repair Cracks in Asphalt Driveway?

There are two main ways to fix all types of asphalt cracks:

• Asphalt Crack Sealing
• Asphalt Crack Filling

Read on to learn more about asphalt patching methods and which one is your best choice.

What Is Asphalt Crack Sealing?

This is the best method for minor cracks that are still in the initial damage stage. Sealing Asphalt Cracks is the top choice of driveway owners due to its low maintenance and durability.

Asphalt Crack Sealing Process usually involves using a hot rubberized sealant to seal the cracks.

Moreover, the repair solution is the best option for cracks that keep expanding and contracting, depending on the season. Rubberized crack sealant seal the cracks while keeping the flexibility to keep up with the movement of the pavement.

The main Benefits of Asphalt Crack Sealing include limiting water and debris from getting into the cracks. This helps in extending the lifespan of the repair work as well as prevents traffic obstruction.

Common Asphalt Crack Sealing Materials include rubberized asphalt, low-modulus rubberized asphalt, and self-leveling silicone.

What Is Asphalt Crack Filling?

Asphalt Crack Filling works as a temporary fix for driveway or pavement cracks. This solution is usually suitable for cracks that are not expanding and contracting constantly.

Crack filling should be thought of as a repair solution only in an area with not much temperature changes. As a result, it’s often effective to use in milder climates with less temperature fluctuations.

Asphalt Driveway Crack Filling reduces water infiltration into the cracks through placing asphalt emulsion into it.

However, crack filling is certainly not a good choice if there are many movements in the pavement crack. The reason for this is the lack of strength in the crack filling materials to withhold movement in cracks.

Most common Asphalt Crack Filling Materials are liquid asphalt, asphalt emulsion, and cutbacks.

Both Asphalt Crack Filling and Sealing have their own pros and cons. In figuring out the  best asphalt repair maintenance services for repairing asphalt cracks, you need to consider the differences between the both.

Asphalt Crack Sealing vs Filling – A Quick Comparison!

Crack Sealing VS Crack Filling

FACTORS TO CONSIDER	CRACK SEALING	CRACK FILLING
Cost-Effectiveness	More Expensive than Crack Filling	Less Costly and Requires Low Investment
Durability	A Permanent Treatment (Can last up to 8 years)	A Temporary Solution (Usually lasts one to two seasons)
Nature of Cracks	Most effective for Working Cracks (Cracks with horizontal or vertical movements greater than 0.1 inches) Suitable for Transverse cracks.	Most Effective for Non-Working Cracks (Cracks with horizontal or vertical movements less than 0.1 inches) Suitable for longitudinal and alligator cracks.
Maintenance	Requires low maintenance as a single repair can last for a long time.	Requires frequent treatments to prevent cracks.

So, this was a quick overview of Crack Sealing VS Filling. In spite of these differences, there is one thing that is common between both of these repair methods. And that is both of these prevent water and other foreign objects from getting stuck in the cracks.

Consequently, both the asphalt crack repair methods can fix the deteriorating condition of your asphalt driveway.

Still confused on which method to choose for Asphalt Driveway Crack Repair?

Check out the next segment for further clarification.

Which One Is the Right Choice for You? 

First and foremost, you need to consider your specific requirements and needs before deciding on a particular repair solution. In the most cases, Asphalt Crack Repair Companies should be your go to option to get the perfect solution for all your driveway problems.

These professionals generally evaluate the type of cracks and the expected movement in the pavement. And, do not be mistaken, these steps are essential before deciding the right asphalt crack repair services.

Factors in Deciding Between Crack Sealing and Crack Filling

Some dominant factors considered when repairing asphalt cracks are:

• Nature of material used in the repair process
• Temperature changes in the area of repair
• Budget restraints

These are three most important factors Crack Repair Specialists usually consider before deciding on the best course of action.

However, choosing between crack filling and crack sealing really depends on your own criteria.

While crack filling is not a long-lasting repair treatment, it’s a quick fix that doesn’t cost much. However, if you can afford more, you should always choose crack sealing over crack filling.

Whatever method you choose, what really is important is not avoiding the crack repairs in fear of damage costs.

Ignoring the early warning signs of damage in an asphalt driveway furthers the damage and leads to even more expenses.

Experienced asphalt contractors know the best material and practices to fix all kinds of cracks in asphalt.

Do You Need Asphalt Crack Repair Services in Toronto?

Choose Main Infrastructure!!

When it comes to asphalt crack repairs, hiring the right Asphalt Repair Company makes all the difference.

We are experts in all kinds of asphalt repairs and restoration. Our team of trained operators invest the required time and care to guarantee the best possible outcome under your budget.

Our repair services are centered on attaining the project goals. Meanwhile, we work hard to offer you the top-notch quality we are known for.

We put safety first, and that’s the reason we enforce stringent workplace safety standards. This not only ensures the safety of our employees but it also protects our clients from unforeseen damages.

Moreover, apart from repairing asphalt cracks, we also offer asphalt paving and the Best Asphalt Patch services in Toronto.

Take a look at our extensive range of asphalt services:

• Asphalt Crack Sealing
• Asphalt Paving
• Infrared Asphalt Patching
• Pothole Spray Patching
• Manhole/Catch Basin Repair
• Vacuum/Hydrovac
• Sweeping Services
• Pavement Management Planning

We strive to provide our clients the best asphalt repair services at reasonable prices. Our representatives are always here to help you out with a quick consultation.

Let Main Infrastructure restore the perfect finish of your asphalt driveway.

Get in touch with us today @ +1 (416) 514 0809

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