Asphalt Crack Sealing: The Why, When, And How

Asphalt Crack Sealing: The Why, When, And How

Even the most perfectly installed asphalt paving is susceptible to cracking at some point. It’s an unavoidable reality you must manage when you have asphalt paving on your property. But just because it’s normal doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Asphalt crack sealing should be an integral part of your pavement maintenance plan.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Asphalt Crack Sealing?

Crack sealing looks simple but requires years of expertise to do it correctly. As the name implies, this service involves using special crack seal compounds to fill and seal voids that can develop in your asphalt surfaces. When done correctly, crack sealer creates a uniform surface, preventing gaps from widening and becoming serious safety hazards. The service can also prevent more extensive damage that will cost you later.

Why Should Las Vegas Sealing Be a Top Priority?

Don’t make the mistake of neglecting asphalt crack repair! Cracks are inevitable but can also lead to even worse trouble later. The biggest risk is water penetration. When water flows into cracks, it can eventually freeze and thaw, widening gaps so much that simple filling and sealing are no longer an option.

What’s worse is what happens when water penetrates deep into your asphalt. Once it enters the lower foundational layers, water can erose material, resulting in potholes, alligator cracks, major buckling and more. Las Vegas crack sealing protects your pavement from future damage, making your property safer and less susceptible to costly repair issues.

When Do Contractors Recommend Getting Crack Sealing?

The best time to apply asphalt crack sealer is during the warmer months of spring and summer. Las Vegas has temperate climates throughout the year, but freezes can still occur in winter. If contractors attempt to apply crack seal products during inclement weather, they may encounter issues with curing.

The warmer months are ideal, and most contractors recommend making asphalt crack sealing a part of your annual maintenance routine. While it’s always a good idea to perform asphalt crack repair as soon as you see voids developing, you should invest in crack sealing at least once a year to avoid major issues.

How Do Professionals Approach Las Vegas Crack Repair?

While many DIY crack sealers are available, always turn to professional asphalt maintenance contractors. Asphalt experts understand the complexities of cracking. They know how they develop and worsen, allowing them to provide solutions that mitigate problems and restore your pavement.

Crack sealer projects typically start with site preparation. Asphalt crack sealers need a clean surface for proper curing and bonding. Therefore, teams usually begin projects by removing weeds, using specialty equipment to brush debris out of voids and more.

Depending on the severity of the cracks, contractors might use routing equipment to widen them. Routing ensures enough crack sealer to accommodate typical thermal movement throughout the year. It can also maximize the bonding surface area, resulting in a cleaner and stronger repair.

To start asphalt crack repair, your contractor will heat the sealing compound in a kettle. Once the crack seal compound reaches the appropriate consistency and temperature, they can apply it to all cracks. After cooling and curing, your contractor may recommend sealcoating for maximum protection.

Don’t let cracks ruin your pavement’s looks, safety and reliability. With help from Affordable Striping & Sealing, you can safeguard your pavement against future damage and improve its longevity. Crack sealing is just one of many services we offer. You can also turn to us for new sealcoating, parking lot maintenance, striping, layout design, road markings, signage and more.

Affordable Striping & Sealing uses only the best asphalt crack sealer products. Our team also employs the latest application techniques and technologies to ensure top-notch results.

Ready to see what we can do for your pavement? Get your free quote from Affordable Striping & Sealing by calling (702)222-9009, emailing vegas@affordablestriping.com or using our online contact form below.