Alligator Crack Asphalt Repair – Everything You Need to Know
Asphalt pavement has a lot of advantages when it comes to road construction or driveway construction. As a durable and sustainable material, it withstands weather changes, heavy traffic, and natural wear and tear. However, even the strongest asphalt pavements can deteriorate over time, and cracks and potholes can emerge. One of the most common types of cracks that you may encounter when you inspect your asphalt pavement is alligator cracking. In this blog post, we'll explore alligator cracking and how you can repair it if you need to.
What is alligator cracking?
Alligator, or fatigue, cracking is a common type of asphalt pavement distress that gets its name from the pattern it creates, which is similar to an alligator's back. This type of cracking occurs due to repeated traffic loading, aging, or weather damage. When the load applied to the pavement exceeds its carrying capacity, the resilient modulus of the asphalt layer decreases, and cracks start to form in a series of interconnected blocks, creating the alligator pattern.
How to repair alligator cracking?
To repair alligator cracking, you need to remove the damaged asphalt and install a new layer. The repair process starts with the assessment of the pavement's condition and the root cause of the cracking, such as subgrade failure or inadequate pavement design. Once you identify the issue, you can remove the damaged area, clean the surface, and compact the subgrade. Then, you should apply tack coat and place the new hot-mix asphalt layer on top. Finally, you should compact the new layer to ensure proper leveling and prevent future damage.
Should you attempt alligator cracking repair yourself?
While some DIY enthusiasts may be tempted to try repairing alligator cracking themselves, it's best to leave it to professionals. Alligator cracking is a sign of extensive damage that requires a deep understanding of pavement engineering and construction principles. Attempting to repair it yourself can lead to further damage, make the problem worse, and reduce the pavement's lifespan. Therefore, it's always best to contact a licensed asphalt contractor who has experience and expertise in alligator crack repair.
Why hire Reliable Pavement Maintenance for alligator crack repair?
Reliable Pavement Maintenance is a leading asphalt contractor in Lake County, FL, that offers a wide range of pavement maintenance services, including alligator crack repair. Our team of licensed and insured professionals has the knowledge, skills, and equipment to tackle all types of alligator cracking and provide durable and cost-effective solutions. We also offer free estimates, flexible scheduling, and competitive pricing. We take pride in our workmanship and customer satisfaction, and we guarantee our repairs for a minimum of 1 year.
Conclusion
Alligator crack repair is a crucial part of pavement maintenance that requires professional expertise, quality materials, and precise execution. If you want to ensure that your asphalt pavement lasts for years to come, it's essential to address alligator cracking promptly and effectively. By hiring Reliable Pavement Maintenance, you can trust that your pavement will be in good hands and that the repair will be done right, the first time. If you're looking for asphalt contractors in Lake County, FL, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with alligator crack repair and other pavement maintenance needs.