Asphalt is a popular material used for roads, walkways, and parking lots across Buffalo, NY because of its affordability and durability. However, prolonged exposure to the weather and regular usage can lead to cracks on the surface of the asphalt. If left unchecked, these cracks can expand and lead to more significant damage. This is why you need to have cracks repaired quickly. Below, we will discuss the asphalt crack repair process.

Assessing the Damage: The first step in the repair process is to do a visual inspection of the crack(s) to determine length and depth. It needs to be determined if the cracks are shallow, surface-level or deep, subbase cracks. Surface-level cracks are much easier to fix with simple maintenance while deep cracks require more extensive repairs.

Cleaning the Cracks: Before repairs can begin, the cracks need to be thoroughly cleaned of debris, vegetation, and loose asphalt particles. A wire brush, broom, or a high-pressure air blower is often used to clean cracks. The cleaning of the cracks helps to ensure that the repair has maximum longevity and to prevent further deterioration.

Filling the Cracks: After the cracks are cleaned, they are then filled using a crack filler. Crack fillers come in a variety of options such as asphalt cement, liquid asphalt emulsion, or specialized crack sealants. The filler is poured directly into the crack until they are filled. For larger cracks, a backer rod may be inserted into the crack to prevent the filler from sinking.

Smoothing and Sealing: After the cracks are filled, the filler needs to be smoothed out. Contractors do this using a trowel or specialized crack repair tool. Smoothing the filler ensures that there is a seamless finish and prevents moisture from getting into the crack. After the filler is smoothed out, it is recommended that a sealant is applied to add an extra layer of protection.