Pavement protection is important to maintaining the life of the asphalt. Asphalt, naturally, will deteriorate over time. It is important to keep up with the maintenance instead of letting the problems spiral out of control. Taking action on repairs, as soon as they are needed, will save you money long term. Three important parts of pavement protection are crack filling, seal coating, and asphalt repair.
Pavement Protection and Crack Filling
Cracks that are left unfilled allow rain and moisture to seep through, causing the pavement to erode. Crack filling on a regular basis will help prevent this. Crack filling prevents rain and moisture from seeping through the pavement, thus in turn, helping to prevent failure or erosion. The pictures below are provided by Sealmasters and help to illustrate the difference between filled and unfilled cracks.
Pavement Protection and Seal Coating
Seal coating should be considered when the asphalt is aging and losing its color. Seal coating also fills small, hairline cracks and is aesthetically pleasing as the pavement looks brand new. It is recommended that your pavement should be seal coated every three years as it allows the pavement to remain structurally sound.
Pavement Protection: Asphalt Repair
Asphalt repair is an important part of pavement protection. Like seal coating and crack filling, it should be done before the winter weather hits. Your pavement needs to be able to withstand the cold. Benefits of asphalt repair include:
- Increased safety: asphalt that is not repaired poses a risk to pedestrians and daily traffic, as well as, a greater liability
- Aesthetics: nobody wants to look at asphalt that is not repaired. First impression begins in the parking lot.
Crack filling, seal coating, and asphalt repair all fall under the umbrella known as “pavement protection“. Protecting your pavement regularly is of paramount importance.
