Dec 27, 2022
Pro Insights On Crack Filling & Pothole Repair

Key Takeaways:

  • Crack filling and pothole repair are important for keeping parking lots safe.
  • They prevent water from seeping into the pavement, causing further damage.
  • Repairing a pothole involves filling a large cavity in the pavement with material that will fill and seal the void.
  • Failing to fix cracks or potholes can lead to further damage and expensive repairs.
  • Regular maintenance is important for preserving the life of asphalt parking lots.
  • Clean the area around the crack before beginning to patch it.
  • Ensure that the patch is slightly larger than the crack so that it fills it in and prevents water from entering.
  • Larger holes may require more permanent solutions, such as hot asphalt mix.
  • Fill potholes and repair pavement regularly to maintain the structural integrity of roadways.

As the weather begins to turn for the worse, you may notice an increase in potholes and cracks in the pavement. This can be a major nuisance for drivers, as it can damage their vehicles and cause accidents. It is important to repair these potholes and cracks as soon as possible to keep parking lots safe and functional. We’ll now discuss what to know about crack filling and pothole repair and how they damage your vehicle when you don’t fix these problems promptly.

The Importance of Crack Filling and Pothole Repair

Crack filling and pothole repair are essential for keeping parking lots safe and free of damage. Without these services, the wear and tear accumulated on asphalt can cause major problems down the road. Crack filling prevents water from getting into cracks in the pavement, which can expand over time to create larger holes. Pothole repair involves filling a large cavity in the pavement with material that will fill and seal the void.

If left unaddressed, cracks and potholes can lead to major accidents and liability issues. Cracks allow water to seep into the underlying layers of asphalt, which leads to erosion, crumbling asphalt, or even complete collapse of the surface. Potholes also cause structural damage to parking lots and roads and pose a danger to drivers and pedestrians alike.

Use Quality Materials and Work with Professionals

When it comes to crack filling and pothole repair, the most important thing is to do the job properly with quality materials. The most common method for repairing cracks is using hot sealant or mastic material applied with a squeegee. This process requires a certain skill, as the hot sealant should be pushed into the cracks to seal them properly and prevent water from seeping through. Hot asphalt also provides a long-lasting result, which is why it’s a popular option for repairing potholes and cracks.

In some cases, cold sealant may be an alternative to hot sealant. Cold sealant is less durable than hot, but it’s also cheaper and easier to apply. It usually comes in a premixed form that you can easily apply with a brush or trowel. This material doesn’t require special skills and is often the preferred method to repair smaller jobs.

Ensure Proper Preparation

Preparing the area is an important step in the crack-filling and pothole-repair process. Removing debris, dirt, or other substances blocking the cracks is essential before applying either cold or hot asphalt. This will ensure a smooth surface for the new material to adhere to. It’s also important to clean out any weeds or plants that may have grown in the area.

What to Know about Crack Filling?

When repairing cracks, it’s important to match the size and shape of the existing crack with a new patch. If the material is too thick for the crack, it can cause additional damage and further problems down the line. The patch should also be slightly larger than the crack so that it fills it in and prevents any water from entering and causing further damage.

What to Know about Pothole Repair?

Hot asphalt is a popular material for filling potholes, as it can provide a more permanent solution than cold asphalt. Hot asphalt is heated to liquid form, allowing it to be poured into the pothole and leveled off until it is even with the existing pavement. It can then be compacted, creating a strong bond between it and the surrounding material. The hot asphalt bonds quickly.

Proper Timing is Essential

Proper timing is paramount when it comes to crack filling and pothole repair. Not only does proper timing ensure the best results, but it also helps protect the integrity of your pavement for years. It’s important to thoroughly inspect your pavement before starting any repairs.

Remember, timing is everything. It’s best to make repairs when the weather allows for optimal conditions. Cracks and potholes can be fixed in most weather conditions except rain. If cracks or potholes are damp, it’s imperative to either wait or use a hot lance or torch to dry the surface.

Damaged,Road,With,Holes

How Cracks and Potholes Damage Your Vehicle

Flat Tires: Driving over a pothole can cause your tire to flatten, which could be costly.

Dents and Scrapes: Hitting a pothole or driving over a crack can cause dents and scrapes on the underside of your car and other parts like the bumper or wheel wells. In some cases, it may require a trip to the body shop.

Bent or Broken Suspension Parts: The shock absorbers and other suspension components can be weakened when driving over potholes or cracks, leading to costly repairs.

Misaligned Wheels: Hitting a pothole or crack can cause your wheels to become misaligned and require an alignment service from a mechanic.

Uneven Tire Wear: Your tires can become worn unevenly if you drive over potholes or cracks frequently. This can cause your tires to wear out much faster than normal and require more frequent replacements.

Damaged Suspension: Hitting a pothole or crack at high speed can cause severe damage to your suspension system, leading to costly repairs. The severity of the damage depends on how big the pothole or crack is.

Risk of Accident: Potholes and cracks can be major hazards on the road as they can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, leading to a potential accident.

Conclusion

Potholes and cracks can be a nuisance on the parking lots, causing wear and tear to your vehicle, increased risk of accidents, and costly repairs. The best way to protect yourself from these issues is by having them professionally filled or repaired with crack-filling materials as soon as possible.

Check out our blog post about the seven benefits of hiring a professional commercial pavement maintenance company.

Paved Assets is the ideal crack-filling and pothole repair service provider for Greensboro. With decades of experience in filling and repairs, we know how to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and with good results that last. Our professionals provide quality services while maintaining a safe environment, and our commitment to customer service ensures satisfaction with every job. We use the highest quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your asphalt surfaces look great and last for years. With our competitive prices, fast response times, and outstanding results, Paved Assets is a clear choice—you won’t find better quality or value anywhere else!

Get a free estimate today!