10 Simple Steps to Fix Alligator Cracks in Asphalt

Table Of Contents

1. Summary
2. Introduction
3. Step 1: Cleaning the area
4. Step 2: Assessment of the Cracks
5. Step 3: Repairing Large Cracks
6. Step 4: Using Crack Filler
7. Step 5: Applying Sealant to the Cracks
8. Step 6: Smoothing the Repair
9. Step 7: Allowing the Repair to Cure
10. Step 8: Reapplying Asphalt Sealcoating
11. Step 9: Inspecting the Repair Regularly
12. Step 10: Performing Routine Maintenance
13. Advantages of Fixing Asphalt Alligator Cracks
14. Conclusion
15. FAQs

Summary

The article aims to provide a guide to repair the alligator cracks in asphalt. It offers step by step assistance to homeowners and property managers for long lasting and effective asphalt results. These 10 steps can help individuals to restore the smooth surfaces with prevention from future damages. The article will also highlight the benefits of fixing the alligator cracks early. 

Introduction

Alligator cracks are often seen in many asphalt surfaces. These cracks are actually the interconnected cracks that seem the pattern of alligator scales. The primary causes of these cracks are heavy traffic and low maintenance. It is important to repair alligator cracks on time to improve curb appeal of the surfaces. The timely repair also extends the lifespan of the  pavings. The focus of this article will be on the steps for asphalt alligator crack repair. Let's now look at these steps one by one, to understand its importance.

Step 1: Cleaning the Area

The first step in asphalt alligator crack repairs is about getting clean surfaces. The cleaning procedure includes removing dust, debris, or loose asphalt around the cracks. The tools used to clean the areas are a broom, air compressor, or pressure washer. A neat area is important, because it ensures proper adhesion of the asphalt to the surfaces.

Step 2: Assessment of the Cracks

The second important step involved is the proper and detailed assessment. The assessment determines whether the cracks are deeper or superficial. The detailed assessment also helps to decide whether the cracks need a quick fixing or proper extensive repair. It is suggested to get the help of professional asphalt service providers to assess the damages and cracks. 

Step 3: Repairing Large Cracks

The third step is to repair the large cracks with cold patching. Cold patching is a procedure to fill the cracks with pre mixed asphalt products. The process starts with cleaning the cracks using a brush or broom. Then, the cracks are filled with the cold patch asphalt ensuring its level with the surrounding surface. For deeper cracks it is suggested to fill asphalt in layers.And then at last, compressing the asphalt with a heavy object. 

Step 4: Using Crack Filler 

This step is efficient to repair the minor alligator cracks. It is recommended to apply the liquid filler for small cracks. The filler is applied directly to the cracks after smoothing it with proper tools. The right filler ensures durability and prevents the surface from water intakes. 

Step 5: Applying Sealant to the Cracks

The fifth step is about applying the sealants after the patching and filling of asphalt. In this step, a thin layer of sealant is applied which provides binding force to the asphalt. The sealants also provide water resistance to the cracks. The sealers that work best are acrylic sealers, coal tar emulsion sealers and oil based sealers etc. 

Step 6: Smoothing the Repair

The sixth essential step is to make the repaired surfaces smooth. For smoothing the repair, a towel or putty knife is used to the repaired material to level with the surrounding asphalt.

Use the required tools to smooth the repair material, ensuring it’s level with the surrounding asphalt. For the larger areas squeegee or asphalt rake is used to smooth the repair. It is suggested to always ensure the level of repaired surfaces for smooth and durable results.

Step 7: Allowing the Repair to Cure

The seventh step is curing the repaired surface, by not allowing it to be used. It is about letting the asphalt, filler and sealants to cure properly before the traffic resumes on the surfaces. The curing time depends upon the type of the damages and repairs. In case of repairing alligator cracks it is recommended to leave the surfaces unused for at least one to two days. The cold patch for alligator cracks takes 48-72 hours for a full cure. Likewise crack filler and hot mix asphalt also need the same curing time.

Step 8: Reapplying Asphalt Sealcoating

The eighth step is after curing which is about the seal coating. This is about applying an additional layer of sealcoating within the asphalt surface for protection. The sealcoating protects the alligator crack repairs from further future damages. The biggest benefit of the seal coating is that it provides long term durability.

Step 9: Inspecting the Repair Regularly

The next step after repairing the cracks is done, is regular inspection. Therefore, it is advised to perform the proper monitoring and inspection. The regular inspection can value your own investment in crack repairs. It will help you to catch the signs of wear and tear at their earliest stages. When you know the damages and cracks early then you will be saved from the future costly repairs.

Step 10: Performing Routine Maintenance

The final step is to perform the routine maintenance of the alligator crack repairs. The regular maintenance is a key to prevent future alligator cracking to your pavings. The routine maintenance like resealing after every few years can keep your surfaces free from debris and prevents cracks.

Asphalt Experts in Acworth, GA like Asphalt Enterprises Inc. has an extensive experience of fixing alligator cracks. Skilled professionals in our team make use of all the 10 simple steps to fix and repair the alligator cracks in asphalt surfaces. Asphalt Enterprises Inc. uses high tech machineries and techniques to repair the alligator cracks.

Advantages of Fixing Asphalt Alligator Cracks

The early, timely, and proper asphalt alligator cracks fixing is important to maintain a smooth asphalt surface. The fixing of asphalt alligator cracks can benefit you in the following ways:

• Such repairs prevent the surfaces from future damages. It helps in stopping the worsening of potholes and cracks.

• The alligator crack repairs are cost effective. Addressing small cracks can save money in costly repairs later.

• The fixing of alligator cracks help in enhancing and maintaining a good appearance of the surfaces. 

• The repairs on time can enhance the safety on roads, runways, parking lots, or all other asphalt surfaces.

• The alligator cracks fixing help in extending the life of asphalt surface.

Conclusion

The alligator cracks on the asphalt can destroy the appearance and enhance the risk on the asphalt surfaces. The ten steps discussed above are easy and efficient to repair the alligator cracks. Tips like resealing and sealcoating help in increasing the lifespan of the asphalt surfaces. Alligator cracks can be risky many of the times, so consider immediate repair options. These repairing tips are simple but prevent expensive damages on the roads. If you have issues with asphalt alligator cracks on the surfaces, then you can call at “770-424-5001”. Asphalt Enterprises Inc has all that you need for alligator cracks i.e expert professionals and required machineries.

FAQs