Cost Of Asphalt Crack Filling
There are many things to maintain on a property, both inside and outside. One of those outside things that needs fixing from time to time are asphalt paved surfaces, such as driveways and parking areas. These types of repairs usually involve fixing cracks that appear in the asphalt.
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Asphalt crack filling is a crucial maintenance practice used to extend the lifespan of asphalt pavements. Over time, asphalt surfaces deteriorate due to factors such as weather conditions, heavy traffic, and aging. Cracks begin to form, allowing moisture and other damaging elements to penetrate the pavement layers, leading to further deterioration. If left unaddressed, these cracks can worsen, leading to more significant damage and costly repairs.
This type of repair involves filling these cracks with a specialized material to prevent water infiltration and further deterioration. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of asphalt crack filling, including its typical costs, examples of projects, a comparison with asphalt crack sealing, its advantages, and its suitability in different situations.
Understanding Typical Costs
The cost of asphalt crack filling can vary depending on various factors, such as the size and severity of the cracks, the type of filler material used, and the region’s labor costs. On average, the cost ranges from $0.50 to $3.00 per linear foot. Depending on the repair method, asphalt repairs cost $2 to $12 per square foot. However, it’s important to note that these are general estimates, and it’s best to consult with a professional contractor for an accurate cost assessment.
Also, it’s important to note that the cost of crack filling is significantly lower compared to the cost of repairing extensive damage caused by neglected cracks. Regular maintenance through crack filling can help avoid substantial repair costs in the long run.
Examples of Asphalt Crack Filling Projects
To better understand the application of asphalt crack filling, let’s consider some examples.
Residential Driveway: A homeowner notices several small cracks forming on their asphalt driveway. To prevent further deterioration and potential water damage, they hire a professional contractor to fill the cracks. The contractor cleans the cracks, applies a hot rubberized filler material, and levels the surface. The result is a seamless and protected driveway.
Parking Areas: Cracks can begin to develop due to the constant stress on the asphalt surface. To prevent these cracks from expanding and causing more significant damage, the property owner hires a contractor to perform asphalt crack filling. The contractor uses a specialized melter to apply a hot rubberized filler, ensuring a durable and long-lasting repair.
Roadways: Municipalities and transportation departments often employ asphalt crack filling to maintain the safety and functionality of roadways. Cracks on road surfaces can pose hazards to motorists, and addressing them promptly ensures smooth and reliable transportation routes.
Asphalt Crack Filling vs. Asphalt Crack Sealing
While both asphalt crack filling and asphalt crack sealing aim to address cracks in asphalt surfaces, there are some notable differences between the two techniques.
Asphalt crack filling involves filling the cracks with a hot rubberized material that expands and contracts with temperature changes. This flexible material helps prevent water from seeping into the cracks, reducing the risk of further damage. It is ideal for narrower cracks, typically less than a quarter-inch wide.
On the other hand, asphalt crack sealing involves applying a hot rubberized sealant over the cracks to create a waterproof barrier. This technique is better suited for wider cracks, typically more than a quarter-inch wide, as it provides a more substantial seal.
Advantages of Asphalt Crack Filling
Asphalt crack filling offers several advantages, making it a preferred choice for pavement maintenance:
– Cost-effective: Compared to other repair methods, asphalt crack filling is relatively inexpensive, especially for small-scale projects.
– Prevents further damage: By sealing cracks, asphalt crack filling prevents water infiltration, reducing the risk of more extensive pavement damage.
– Enhances Safety: Cracks on roads, parking lots, and driveways can pose safety hazards. By filling these cracks, the risk of accidents, such as trips and falls, is minimized, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and motorists.
– Quick application: Asphalt crack filling can be completed swiftly, minimizing disruption to traffic flow or business operations.
– Improved aesthetics: Filling cracks restores the appearance of the pavement, enhancing the overall curb appeal of the property.
– Extends pavement lifespan: Regular crack filling helps extend the life of asphalt surfaces, delaying the need for costly repaving or reconstruction projects.
Suitability of Asphalt Crack Filling in Different Situations
Asphalt crack filling is suitable in various situations, including:
– Early-Stage Cracks: Crack filling is most effective when used to address early-stage cracks. By identifying and filling these cracks promptly, property owners can prevent their expansion and minimize further damage.
– Moderate Climate: Crack filling is particularly effective in moderate climates where temperature fluctuations are not extreme. The flexible material used in crack filling can withstand the expansion and contraction caused by moderate temperature changes.
– Preventative Maintenance: Incorporating crack filling into a regular maintenance routine is essential for preventing extensive damage. By proactively addressing cracks, property owners can extend the life of their asphalt surfaces and avoid costly repairs.
Conclusion
Asphalt crack filling is a vital maintenance practice that helps extend the lifespan of asphalt pavements. It provides an affordable and effective solution for preventing further damage caused by water infiltration. By understanding the typical costs, comparing it with asphalt crack sealing, and recognizing its advantages and suitability in different scenarios, property owners can make informed decisions regarding pavement maintenance. Consulting with professional contractors and scheduling regular crack filling can ensure the longevity and durability of asphalt surfaces, saving both time and money in the long run.
