Asphalt cracking is a common issue that can lead to more serious pavement problems if not addressed quickly. Cracks in the asphalt allow water to seep into the pavement, leading to deterioration and potential pothole development. However, regular sealcoating can provide a solution to this pervasive issue. Andersen Asphalt & Striping would like to highlight how sealcoating helps in preventing and managing asphalt cracking and helps to extend the lifespan and enhancing the durability of pavement surfaces.
Understanding Asphalt Cracking
Asphalt cracking can occur for a number of different reasons such as:
Thermal Cracking: Caused by temperature fluctuations, which lead the asphalt to contract and expand.
Water Damage: Occurs when water seeps into the asphalt and weakens the sub-base, often exacerbated by freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates.
Oxidation: Asphalt loses its oils and resins over time due to exposure to oxygen, making it brittle and more likely to crack.
Load-Related Cracking: Heavy vehicle traffic can stress the asphalt beyond its ability to flex and bend.
How Sealcoating Helps Asphalt
Moisture Barrier: One of the primary benefits of sealcoating is its ability to act as a barrier against moisture. By sealing the surface layer of the asphalt, sealcoating prevents water from penetrating through cracks into the base and sub-base of the pavement. This reduces the risk of major structural damages such as alligator cracking and potholes, which are expensive and labor-intensive to repair.
Flexibility Restoration: Sealcoating replenishes the essential oils of the asphalt surface, restoring flexibility. This enhanced flexibility allows the asphalt to withstand the pressures of regular traffic and thermal expansion without cracking. A flexible pavement is less likely to developing cracks from daily stress.
UV Protection: Ultraviolet or UV rays from the sun can accelerate the deterioration of asphalt by speeding up oxidation and making the pavement weak and brittle. Sealcoating includes additives that protect against these UV rays, reducing the rate of oxidation and helping to prevent the formation of cracks due to brittleness.
Filling Small Cracks: While sealcoating is not a fix for larger cracks or structural damage, it is highly effective for addressing smaller, hairline cracks. The sealcoat material fills these small openings, sealing the asphalt from water infiltration and other external elements that can widen these cracks over time.
Aesthetics and Surface Smoothness: Sealcoating also improves the visual appeal of asphalt surfaces. It fills and smooths out minor imperfections and cracks, giving the pavement an even, dark finish. This not only enhances the curb appeal but also makes the surface safer for vehicles and pedestrians.
Best Practices for Sealcoating
Regular Maintenance: To effectively prevent cracking, asphalt should be inspected regularly and sealcoated every 2-3 years.
Proper Application: Ensure that the asphalt surface is clean and dry before applying sealcoat. Proper application is essential for ensuring that the sealcoat adheres well and performs its protective functions.
Professional Services: Hiring professional asphalt maintenance services can ensure that the right type of sealcoat is used and applied correctly. Professionals can also assess the pavement for any other underlying issues that may need addressing before sealcoating.
Asphalt Parking Lot & Road Pavement Resurfacing, Replacement & More in Reno, Elko, Henderson, North LV, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor, Las Vegas, NV | State of Nevada
Sealcoating is an important maintenance tool that helps solve and prevent asphalt cracking. For property managers and homeowners, investing in regular sealcoating is a cost-effective way to maintain the integrity and appearance of asphalt pavements. For asphalt sealcoating service and more, contact Andersen Asphalt & Striping today.
