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Aug 1, 2022
You are currently viewing 5 Types Of Asphalt Cracks And How To Repair Them

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Asphalt driveways are a common sight in suburban neighborhoods. Although asphalt lasts for many years with proper maintenance, eventually, all asphalt shows signs of wear and tear. This can manifest as cracks in the surface of the driveway. While some cracks are no big deal and can be fixed with a simple repair kit, others require more attention. This blog post discusses five asphalt crack types and how to fix them.

1) Fatigue Cracking

When excessive load and weight cause a road to deteriorate, it leads to asphalt cracking. The surface begins to form tiny fissures and then larger cracks as the asphalt weakens. This type of crack is often seen in areas that experience much traffic, such as highways.

2) Edge Cracking

Edge cracking occurs when there is no shoulder or curbs to protect the asphalt from vehicles driving off the road. The edge of the asphalt then becomes damaged and starts to crack. This type of asphalt crack is common on country roads and residential streets. Edge cracks resemble longitudinal cracks as they form a foot or two of each other.

3) Block Cracking

Block cracking looks like a series of small square cracks that are interconnected. Block cracks develop due to fatigue or repeated stress, such as heavy vehicles driving on the same path and significant temperature changes.

4) Transverse Cracking

Transverse asphalt cracks are the most common type of crack, and they run perpendicular to the road’s centerline. These cracks form due to traffic constantly driving over the same spot on the surface, causing it to deteriorate and crack under pressure.

5) Slippage Cracking

Slippage cracking is a type of asphalt crack that can occur when there is too much binder. This causes the asphalt to become too soft, especially in warm weather, and results in the pavement breaking or slipping. These cracks typically form at joints in the surface where there is weak support.

Asphalt Pavement Maintenance Tips

Implement the following tips to prevent crack formation:

  • Routinely check your asphalt surface for any signs of cracking or deterioration.
  • Fill any cracks you see as soon as possible to prevent them from spreading.
  • Sealcoat your asphalt surface every 2 to 3 years to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan.
  • To keep it in good condition, perform regular maintenance on your surface, such as power sweeping and applying a fresh layer of asphalt.

By following these tips, you can help keep your surface in good condition and prevent the formation of cracks.

While you may be able to do some of the repairs yourself, it’s always best to hire a reliable professional. Scorpion Construction LLC offers quality asphalt patch and repair services in Tampa Bay, FL. We can help you identify what kind of crack is affecting your pavement and provide a solution that will extend the life of your asphalt surface. Contact us today for a free estimate.