Asphalt driveways can have cracks. And cracks can develop for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to weathering, poor installation, and heavy traffic. Poor drainage can also lead to the development of cracks, as water that pools on the surface will eventually find its way underneath the asphalt and cause it to crack and crumble.
In order to prevent cracks from forming, it is important to ensure that your driveway is properly installed and that you have proper drainage in place. If cracks do form, they can be repaired with a patching material or sealant.
But how to repair large cracks in asphalt driveway? Read more as we’ll discuss this topic in today’s post.
What Can Be Classified As Large Cracks In An Asphalt Driveway?
A large crack in an asphalt driveway is typically any crack that is wider than 1/4 inch and more than 6 inches long. These types of cracks can cause major problems for a driveway, as they can lead to water infiltration and the formation of potholes.
There are three types of large cracks that can form in an asphalt driveway – transverse, longitudinal, and radial.
Transverse cracks are the most common, and they typically form in the asphalt’s surface layer. They’re usually caused by the traffic loading on the driveway, and they can be anywhere from a few inches to a few feet long.
Longitudinal cracks are much less common, but they can be more serious than transverse cracks. They form in the asphalt’s underlying layers, and they can extend for long distances. If left untreated, longitudinal cracks can lead to driveway failure.
Radial cracks are also uncommon, but they can be very dangerous. They radiate out from the center of the driveway, and they often signal an impending failure. If you see radial cracks in your driveway, it’s best to have it repaired right away.
What Causes Cracks To Form On The Surface Of Your Driveway And How To Fix It
Cracks in an asphalt driveway can develop for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to weathering, poor installation, and heavy traffic. Poor drainage can also lead to the development of cracks, as water that pools on the surface will eventually find its way underneath the asphalt and cause it to crack and crumble.
Another reason why asphalt driveways crack is because the material is not flexible enough to withstand the constant changes in temperature. The expansion and contraction of the driveway due to the weather can cause the material to break and form cracks. In addition, the weight of vehicles driving on the driveway can also cause it to crack.
The best way to repair large cracks in an asphalt driveway is to fill them with a hot asphalt mix. This type of repair is known as “hot patching.” It’s the most effective way to repair cracks, and it will also help to prevent further cracking.
To do a hot patch, first clean out the crack using a wire brush or a power washer. Then, fill the crack with hot asphalt mix, using a trowel to spread it evenly. Once the asphalt has cooled and hardened, seal the area with a layer of sealant.
Hot patching is the best way to repair large cracks in an asphalt driveway, but it’s also important to prevent cracks from forming in the first place. To do this, seal your driveway every one to two years with a high-quality sealant. This will help to fill in any small cracks that may form, and it will also make it easier to clean the driveway and prevent larger cracks from developing.
However, if you have a crack in your asphalt driveway that is more than a quarter inch wide, or if you have multiple cracks, it is best to have the repairs done by a professional. You can hire Pavement Resources in Minneapolis today as they have the knowledge and equipment necessary to properly repair the cracks, ensuring that they will not return.
How To Select The Right Contractors To Fix The Cracks In Your Asphalt Driveway?
When it comes time to repair those large cracks in your driveway, it’s important to choose a contractor you can trust. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one:
- Do your research. Read reviews online and ask around for recommendations.
- Get estimates from several contractors.
- Check references and make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
- Make sure the contractor has experience repairing asphalt driveways.
- Get a written contract that specifies the work that will be done and the cost.
- Make sure you understand the terms of the contract before signing anything.
- Pay attention to the details – the quality of the work should be impeccable.
- Follow up with the contractor after they’ve finished the job to make sure you’re happy with the results.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to find a reliable contractor who can repair your large cracks in asphalt driveway quickly and efficiently.
