How to Repair Cracks in Asphalt

July 23, 2020

How to Repair Cracks in Asphalt

Keeping an asphalt driveway or parking lot in good condition can mean the difference between spending a few hundred dollars and several thousand. Asphalt is a very durable and reliable paving material, but it also needs care and yearly maintenance. Cracks in asphalt let water seep in all the way to the soil underneath. That seepage destabilizes the asphalt and turns to ice in cold conditions. The ice breaks up the asphalt even more, making it look like a bumpy spiderweb. Filling cracks in asphalt along with regular sealcoating is important to giving it a long life. Here we discuss how to repair cracks in asphalt to protect it.

Check the Weather and Prep the Driveway

Checking the weather is always the first thing to do when you’re working with asphalt. First, you want to make sure it’s not going to rain. Then, check the temperature. The temperature can’t dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and it shouldn’t be above 90; that’s the sweet spot.

Next, it’s time to clean the driveway. Use a leaf blower or broom to clear everything off. Be sure to blow out the larger cracks as well. If you’re going to sealcoat, then trim back any grass along the sides. Don’t use water unless you know you have enough time to let it dry completely.

Prepare the Cracks

The big cracks are easy enough to fill, but the smaller ones will need some prepping. Use a diamond pad on a grinder to make the smaller cracks larger; they’ll be easier to fill this way. Give all the cracks another look and ensure they’re clear of debris and dirt. Dirt and debris inside a crack or hole will prevent the cold patch and/or filler from adhering properly, making it less effective. Taking the extra time to clean will mean the repairs will last longer and protect the driveway better.

Fill the Cracks

Asphalt crack repair isn’t hot and messy like you might think. For cracks 1/2” wide or smaller, use a bottle crack filler. It has self-leveling qualities, as it’s very fluid. There’s a nipple on the top of the bottle, and you can run a bead along the crack, just like using glue in grammar school. Don’t overfill the cracks, though; use just enough filler to top off the crack. For larger cracks and holes, use cold patch. Fill the crack and level it off with a trowel or tamper. Don’t seal the patch for four to six weeks after the fact. Knowing how to repair cracks in asphalt will save you plenty of money in the long run.




Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Blog

The Main Causes of Asphalt Deterioration
The Main Causes of Asphalt Deterioration

March 25, 2024

Are you wondering how to protect your asphalt from the elements and extend its lifespan? Here are the main factors behind asphalt deterioration.

Continue Reading

5 Mistakes To Avoid When Line Striping a Parking Lot
5 Mistakes To Avoid When Line Striping a Parking Lot

March 12, 2024

Discover the most common mistakes of line striping to keep your parking lot in top condition. Learn practical tips for long-lasting results.

Continue Reading

The Differences Between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating
The Differences Between Asphalt Paving and Sealcoating

February 27, 2024

Discover the distinct roles of asphalt paving and sealcoating in pavement installation. Learn more about how one lays the base and the other protects it.

Continue Reading