What Causes Asphalt Pavement Cracks and How to Avoid Them

Asphalt paving provides a durable and attractive surface for driveways. But if cracks appear, not only will it affect the appearance of a parking lot, it will also lead to the deterioration of the pavement.

Cracks requiring asphalt pavement services are caused by a number of things. Here are some of the most common ones, along with ways to avoid them.

Common Causes of Asphalt Cracking

Moisture

Moisture is the biggest cause of pavement cracking. Once moisture seeps into pavement, it causes it to break down almost immediately, requiring asphalt pavement maintenance. Moisture causes the sand and gravel base to wash away, causing breaks and cracks in the asphalt.

Water also finds its way into cracks and crevices on the surface of pavement, causing pressure. Heavy rain and snow can also take a toll. Regular asphalt paving repair and maintenance is one of the many ways you can prevent moisture from finding its way into your pavement. Utilizing professional paving services ensures the longest-lasting results.

The Sun

Believe it or not, even the sun can damage the pavement. It can cause any moisture to dry up, making it brittle. This leads to developing cracks due to regular traffic, both vehicular and pedestrian. That’s why it’s important to use quality asphalt paving material that will stand up to the elements during the summer, and even sunny days during the winter.

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Freezing and Thawing

The freezing and thawing cycle during the winter months can cause the pavement to shift. The severe storms that the GTA suffered in recent years have led to many property owners seeking asphalt repair services. Some natural movement is to be expected, however, making regular asphalt pavement maintenance necessary.

Fatigue Cracking

Also known as “alligator cracking,” this is a common problem that affects parking lots. It is typically caused by traffic or leaving heavy vehicles parked in one spot for extended periods of time.

However, this issue can be easily resolved in a number of ways. Sealing your parking lot as part of routine asphalt paving repair is one way to address this. Frequently moving heavy vehicles and maintaining a good base with proper drainage are other ways to ensure that your pavement will last.

Age

Even if the asphalt paving services you employ use the best materials, you will need to have your parking lot maintained eventually, especially if a number of years have passed. The combination of the factors listed above takes a toll on pavement over time. You may have noticed signs of aging at the edges or even the center of your parking lot.

Newer material will typically hold up to the elements. But over time, it will show signs of fatigue. Even the tiniest of cracks should be filled in immediately. Once moisture enters, it can cause severe damage to your pavement.

Whether your parking lot needs to be repaired, or you’re just looking for routine maintenance, Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. is the leading provider of asphalt paving repair and maintenance services in the GTA. We offer a range of asphalt paving services at an affordable price. Contact us for more information on the right paving solutions for you.