Transverse/Thermal Cracking in Asphalt Pavement: Causes and Repair

In most major cities, transverse or thermal cracking in asphalt is a very common problem and a safety hazard because the roads are constantly in use; this is why it is important to hire companies that specialize in transverse crack repair in Toronto.

What Causes Transverse Cracking in Asphalt?

Transverse asphalt cracking usually occurs when the asphalt is exposed to cool or declining temperatures before it has completely hardened and while the hot asphalt mixture is still warm; this is why it is also referred to as thermal cracking in asphalt pavement.

As the temperature in the climate decreases, the asphalt begins to tighten and then it contracts and shrinks and this causes it to crack in a pattern that is perpendicular or transverse to the pavement’s centreline. Transverse cracking is most noticeable on concrete pavement that gets a high level of daily traffic. Cool temperatures cause the thermal cracking in asphalt pavement and the constant weight and pressure from overuse and moving vehicles worsens it.

Transverse asphalt cracking starts on the surface of the pavement and then gradually sinks deeper and deeper below the surface if the transverse cracks are not immediately repaired. The damage will be further exacerbated by changing weather patterns and climates. Precipitation, like heavy snow and rain, can cause the crack to erode more aggressively over time, which is why it is always best to properly maintain asphalt that is newly laid out and make sure that the hot asphalt mix being applied can withstand the demands of the climate in which it is applied.

The onus is on the landowners to ensure that they are performing all of the necessary maintenance procedures regularly and that they fix any and all cracks or damages in a timely manner to prevent further damage to the pavement and to vehicles.

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Transverse Cracks in Asphalt Pavement

When cold air intermingles with hot asphalt mix that is still wet, it can result in thermal cracking in the asphalt pavement. More than anything, this is just a nuisance that parking lot and driveway owners do not want to have to deal with. Unfortunately, transverse crack repairs are a necessary evil because if they are left alone for too long, they can lead to more problems and potentially more expensive repairs in the long run.

The best thing to do is to patch up he cracks when you first notice them to prevent them from spreading into tertiary cracks. These can lead to further weather-related damages, such as water erosion. Once water gets into the cracks on the surface of the pavement, it is only a matter of time before it makes its way below ground, at which point it will be increasingly difficult to accurately assess the extent of the damage, and this will make the repairs a nightmare. Thankfully, there are highly qualified companies that offer transverse crack repair services in Toronto.

Transverse Crack Repair in Toronto

Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. has over 20 years of experience in repairing transverse cracking in concrete pavement and in asphalt paving services. We are always ready and willing to offer premium services for affordable prices. For more information, please call our number 416-410-3705, or if you’re in Toronto, you can call 416-410-3705.