Key Takeaways –
- Persistent cracks can ruin the pavement, and there comes a time when your pavement needs immediate attention.
- Crack filling is a timely and proactive pavement maintenance procedure that ensures your surface stands the test of time.
- Widening cracks can leave your pavement reeling, calling for immediate asphalt repair and maintenance.
- However, DIY crack filling is not the pavement maintenance recipe that can work like a charm each time.
- There’s a lot that can go wrong with the DIY crack repair, which is why you should hire professional crack-filling services.
Did you notice that little crack in your driveway? The one that’s been there for a while, slowly growing bigger and broader? You could fill it with crack filler from the hardware store, but is that the best option? Or should you call in a professional to take care of it properly? This blog post will explore the pros and cons of DIY crack filling vs. professional services. We’ll also help you decide which option is right for you. So read on – your driveway depends on it!
Is Your Pavement in Need of Crack Filling?
The best course of action for pavement cracks is to nip them in the bud before they have a chance to cause further damage. But how can you tell if your pavement needs crack filling? Here are four signs:
1. You Can’t Remember the Last Time You Had It Done
As a general rule, you should inspect and service your pavement at least once a year – more if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. And if it’s been a few years since your last crack filling, then it’s time to consider adding those fillers to the surface.
2. There Are More Cracks Than Before
Small cracks are nothing to worry about and can usually be filled without issue. But if the cracks start to connect or form patterns, that’s an entirely different story. In this case, you’ll want to call a professional to assess the situation and recommend the best action.
3. The Cracks Are Wider Than Before
If you notice that the cracks in your pavement have gotten broader or deeper over time, that’s another indication that it’s time for crack filling. Wider cracks leave your pavement vulnerable to weather damage and can lead to more severe problems if left unaddressed.
4. The Cracks Are Starting to Impact Your Daily life.
If the cracks in your pavement are starting to impact your daily life, then that’s a sign that it’s time for repair. For example, have you started avoiding driving over certain areas of your driveway because the bumps are just too much? Or maybe you’ve found yourself making a mental note to be extra careful when walking across your patio or deck because you don’t want to trip on a loose piece of asphalt. Call a professional to deal with these pesky cracks if any of this sounds familiar.
Also, read – What Does Crack Filling Do for Your Pavement?
Why You Shouldn’t Try Filling Pavement Cracks Yourself
Here are some things that can go wrong during your DIY pavement crack-filling attempt.
1. You’re Not a Pavement Maintenance Professional
Let’s face it unless you’ve been trained in pavement maintenance, you’re not going to do a professional job filling pavement cracks. A lot goes into it – from selecting suitable materials to preparing the surface correctly. So, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
2. It’s Hot Work
Crack filling is typically done in the summer months when temperatures are soaring. Working in the heat is no fun, especially when dealing with hot asphalt. Unless you’re prepared to sweat through your shirt and burn yourself on hot asphalt, it’s best to leave it to someone who knows what they’re doing.
3. You Need Specialized Equipment
Unless you have an air compressor and other crack-filling apparatus at home (and we’re guessing you don’t), you will need to rent or buy some specialized equipment. That’s money you could be spending on something else – like a vacation or a new carpet for your house.
4. You May Use the Wrong Materials
There are different types of cracks, and different materials are required to fix them. Hairline cracks, for example, can often be repaired with sealant, while wider cracks may require a more substantial repair with patching material. If you use the wrong materials, not only will your repair be less effective, but it will also be more likely to fail prematurely.
5. You May Not Prepare the Area Properly
If you don’t properly clean and prepare the area around the crack before attempting to fill it, your repair will likely be unsuccessful. You must remove all debris from the crack and the surrounding area; otherwise, it will prevent the repair material from adhering to the asphalt properly. In addition, any vegetation growing in or around the crack should be removed since it can also interfere with proper adhesion.
6. You May Not Use Enough Material
If you don’t use enough repair material, it will not last as long as it should and may not fill the crack, which defeats the purpose. To err on the side of caution, always use more repair material than you think you need and then smooth it out so that it’s level with the surrounding surface.
The reasons mentioned above are enough to convince you to avoid DIY crack filling altogether and call professional services as soon as you notice problems emerging.
It’s the age-old question: Do you fix it yourself or call a professional when your pavement shows signs of wear and tear? We at JB Lines think we have the answer for you. Our team offers top-notch asphalt repair and maintenance services, including crack filling that will leave your pavement looking good as new in High River. So, the next time you’re faced with a crack in the sidewalk or a pothole in your driveway, give us a call – we’ll take care of it. Get a free estimate today.
