A Comprehensive Guide to Repairing Cracks in Your Asphalt Driveway

Maintaining the good condition of your asphalt driveway is not just an aesthetic concern; it is a wise investment. With proper installation and regular upkeep, asphalt pavement can serve you for two decades or more. The longevity of your driveway can be considerably enhanced by resealing it every three years to prevent cracking and other forms of deterioration.

Water permeating beneath the surface of your asphalt driveway and fluctuating in volume with the freezing and thawing cycles is the leading culprit behind cracks. After addressing any cracks with patching and filling, it's crucial to seal your driveway to inhibit further water penetration.

Cracks in your driveway, if left untreated, will progressively widen. Neglected small cracks can eventually evolve into larger issues requiring more expensive asphalt repairs.

Here's a step-by-step guide to repairing asphalt driveway cracks and keeping them from spreading!

Preparation

‍Before applying the patching material, ensure the impacted area is thoroughly cleaned for better adhesion.Use a hammer and chisel to clear out any fragmented asphalt obstructing the crack.A wire brush can be useful for removing dirt and debris lodged in the crack.Use a shop vac or an air gun to guarantee all the loose debris is cleared out. If these tools are unavailable, a garden hose can serve the purpose - just ensure the crack is entirely dry before proceeding.Safety reminder – Always wear goggles to shield your eyes from tiny debris particles.

Repairing Small Cracks (1/8 inch – 1/2 inch)

‍A rubberized asphalt-emulsion crack filler is ideal for addressing small cracks. Be cautious not to smear the filler on unaffected areas to avoid staining the driveway.If available, utilize a caulking gun for filler application. In its absence, the filler can be poured cautiously into the crack.Smoothen the surface of the crack using a trowel or a putty knife. If unavailable, rubber gloves can be used to smooth out the crack manually.Before driving on the repaired spot, let the filler dry as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Repairing Larger Cracks (1/2 inch +)

‍For cracks deeper than two inches, start by filling the crack with small, crushed gravel up to the two-inch level. Avoid larger gravel or pea gravel as they can shift frequently and fail to provide a sturdy base.Compact the gravel using a steel tamper or a 4x4 wooden post.Next, apply a cold process asphalt repair compound to the crack.Compact the compound using the steel tamper or 4x4 wooden post.After compacting, you might need to add more compound and repeat the compaction process for a level driveway.

Allow Complete Drying

‍While the surface of your driveway might dry in a couple of days, the underlying layers could take several weeks to fully harden. During this period, avoid sealing your driveway as it could obstruct the air supply to the patched areas, impeding proper hardening.

Prevent Future Asphalt Driveway Cracks with Timely Repairs and Regular Sealcoating

‍After the repaired cracks have thoroughly dried, consider applying a fresh layer of sealcoat. Sealcoating your driveway shields it from moisture penetration, thus preventing the formation of new cracks.

Are you seeking professional asphalt crack repair services in the Brazos Valley area? Premium Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating delivers top-notch residential and commercial paving services to Central Texas clients. Contact us today for a FREE estimate and let our seasoned team assist you with your upcoming asphalt project.

If you're ready to take action and schedule maintenance for your asphalt surfaces, we invite you to contact our asphalt company. Our team of experienced professionals can provide you with high-quality maintenance and repairs that will keep your asphalt surfaces looking their best for years to come. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.