5 Common Types of Asphalt Cracks

Over time, excessive weight, traffic, and extreme weather can all wear on asphalt paving, causing it to crack. Before it can be fixed, the type of crack should be determined so that the correct method of repair can be used. Take a look at the five most common types of asphalt paving distress. 

What Are the Most Common Types of Asphalt Cracks?
1. Cracking
Simple cracks can form due to excessive loads, temperature fluctuations, and the environment. In order to repair it, the surface level needs to be removed and a new layer of pavement applied. Make sure that heavier trucks don’t sit in one spot too long to avoid dealing with cracks.

2. Distortion
Distortion includes rutting, shoving, depressions, swelling, and patch failure. These issues can be caused by uneven or insufficient pavement thickness or asphalt that's too soft. The area should be repaired with a hot-mix patch.

3. Disintegration
Disintegration is when the asphalt breaks up into tiny pieces that get lost. It can show up in the form of a pothole. Potholes can occur when a smaller crack isn’t repaired and worsens due to traffic or weather. The material will need to be cut out, and the hole filled with asphalt mix.  

4. Skidding Hazards
When water is sitting on the surface of the pavement, it creates a skidding hazard. This can happen when there isn’t proper drainage on the pavement. The asphalt will require fresh leveling to ensure the water drains off. 

5. Surface Treatment Distress
When the surface treatment loses the aggregate cover too soon, this indicates that the asphalt wasn’t applied correctly, or it was used too soon. To fix this, spread hot coarse sand over the affected areas, and roll it out with a pneumatic-tired roller. 

If you need reliable asphalt paving or snow removal, contact Guarco Construction in Granby, CT. We are family-owned and -operated, and have served Hartford County and the surrounding areas since 1974. We specialize in commercial and residential paving and snow removal. We are renowned for their friendly, dependable service, attention to detail, and competitive rates. Learn more about us online or call (860) 278-5558 to schedule your snow removal or asphalt paving.