How to Repair Asphalt Cracks

As a contractor we encounter asphalt cracks on a daily basis. In California cracks in asphalt are fairly common due to a variety of factors such as ground movement, extreme heat, and extreme cold. Cracks in asphalt are not only unsightly but can prove to be the source of costly asphalt failure. Cracks left open in asphalt will allow moisture to penetrate below the surface. Once moisture builds up below the paving surface it can cause subgrade damage which will eventually lead to failure of the asphalt section. There are two techniques that can be used to repair. One is the clean out the cracks with pressurized air and filling with a hot or cold rubberized material. The other is technique is to patch the cracks with asphalt. If the cracks are unusually large we recommend cold plaining the cracks and then patching with asphalt. See the enclosed video link for how to cold plane out the cracks.  [youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YpkRW_Ygmo]. After the cold planing process the excess material is swept up and cleaned, the area is tack coated and then paved with hot mix asphalt concrete. Whichever method you choose the goal is to seal the cracks and prevent moisture from causing further damage. For more information about repairing cracks in your asphalt surface contact us at 800-PAVE-ITT (800) 728-3488 or visit us on the web at www.paveit.com.