There is no argument that all asphalt pavements crack. Cracks in asphalt are inevitable. Neglect and lack of proper maintenance of parking areas or drive ways lead to accelerated cracking and/or potholing, further reducing the serviceability of the pavement.
Once cracks develop, water easily penetrates into the base and sub-base of the pavement and damages the structural integrity of the aggregate materials. Pavement joint and crack sealants are designed to protect pavement by minimizing water infiltration and by preventing the accumulation of debris.
It is generally accepted that sealing the cracks in flexible pavements is the best preventative maintenance procedure for adding many years to the life of the pavement, especially when used in conjunctions with other preventive maintenance techniques.
Crack sealing is an important procedure that must be addressed yearly, is one of the most cost-effective ways to prolong the pavement life.
