Cracks can be a nuisance. And what may seem to be a small problem may become a costly headache if you choose to ignore it. Even worse, if the cracks are more than an inch wide, they are also accompanied by other surface issues like potholes. But fortunately, there are ways to repair significant cracks on the pavement.
And if you are interested to know more, we suggest you keep reading as we’re going to talk about how to repair large cracks in asphalt driveway in today’s post.
What Causes Asphalt To Develop Cracks
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable and can last for many years with proper care. However, even asphalt driveways will eventually develop cracks, usually as a result of regular wear and tear. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of asphalt cracks, including:
- Temperature Changes – Asphalt is a material that contracts and expands with temperature changes. When the temperature drops, the asphalt will contract and any cracks that are already present will become more pronounced. In the summer when temperatures rise, the opposite happens and the cracks will often become less visible.
- Poor Drainage – If your driveway does not have good drainage, water can pool on the surface and seep into cracks, causing them to become larger and more numerous.
- Heavy Traffic – Driveways that see a lot of heavy traffic are more likely to develop cracks than those that do not. This is because the weight of the vehicles can cause the asphalt to shift and crack over time.
The Proper Procedure In Fixing Large Cracks On Asphalt Driveway
If you have a large crack in your asphalt driveway, you’ll want to fix it as soon as possible. Filling the crack will prevent it from growing larger and causing further damage to your driveway. Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the crack with a wire brush to remove any debris or loose asphalt.
- Fill the crack with a cold process asphalt repair material, such as Blacktop Repair or any other similar products.
- Use a trowel to smooth out the repair material and make it level with the rest of the driveway.
- Allow the repair material to cure for at least 24 hours before parking any vehicles on the driveway.
- Repeat steps 1-4 as necessary to repair any additional cracks.
What If The Cracks Require A Permanent Fix
For a permanent fix, you’ll need to hire a contractor to resurface the entire driveway. This is typically done with a hot mix asphalt repair material, which will provide a stronger and more durable repair. Resurfacing the driveway will also help to blend in the repair area with the rest of the driveway.
The Benefits Of Working With A Qualified Paving Contractor
A professional contractor has the experience and equipment necessary to do the job right, ensuring a lasting repair. Some of the advantages of letting a professional contractor fix the large cracks on your driveway include:
- Proper Equipment – A professional contractor will have the proper equipment to repair your driveway quickly and efficiently. This includes a wire brush for cleaning the cracks, as well as a trowel and cold process asphalt repair material.
- Experience – A professional contractor has likely repaired many driveways before and knows exactly what to do to fix yours. They’ll also be able to properly match the repair material to your driveway, ensuring a seamless repair.
- Warranty – Most professional contractors offer some type of warranty on their work. This means that if something goes wrong with the repair, you won’t have to pay for it out of pocket.
- Quick Turnaround – A professional contractor can usually repair a driveway much faster than the average person. This is because they have the proper equipment and experience to do the job quickly and efficiently.
All in all, hiring a trusted asphalt paving company like Baraco Paving in Orlando FL to repair large cracks in your asphalt driveway is the best way to ensure a lasting repair. While it may cost more upfront, it will save you money in the long run. Moreover, a professional contractor has the experience and equipment necessary to do the job right, ensuring a seamless repair.