Asphalt is a great choice for a durable driveway, but it isn’t invincible. Over time, asphalt paving in Toronto tends to see wear and tear that leads to cracks and potholes, especially as a result of the city’s extreme seasonal weather. If you have an asphalt driveway with small cracks, you can try filling them yourself, but if the cracks are sizeable you will want to hire a professional for long lasting results.
Causes for Cracks
Cracks and crevices can form as a result of poor initial installation or wear, which is why having your asphalt paving installed by professionals you can trust is a worthwhile investment. Once cracks appear, water will seep into them and freeze during cold months. The freeze-thaw cycle is detrimental for asphalt paving that has water in the underlying base because it weakens the asphalt and leads to cracks.
Sealing Small Cracks
If you are dealing with cracks smaller than an inch in width, you can try patching them yourself. Choose from tubed or pourable asphalt fillers and follow these easy steps to seal small cracks.
1. Clean Cracks
Be sure to remove all dirt and debris from the cracks. No special tools are required for this, you can simply use any tool in your toolbox that will do the job. Be sure the cracks are cleaned out completely – hose them down if necessary to remove all obstructions.
2. Prepare the Filler
If you purchase a pourable asphalt filler you will need to make sure it is properly mixed before using it. Follow the instructions on the product package for best results. Tubed fillers come pre-mixed, so all you need to do is cut a hole in the tip smaller than the cracks being filled.
3. Fill the Cracks
If you are using a tubed filling agent it is important to get the nozzle deep into the crack to fill it properly. Pourable fillers are relatively easy to get into crevices with a trowel. Be sure to fill the cracks completely and all the way to the edges of the asphalt driveway.
4. Smooth and Dry
Once you have filled the cracks, be sure to smooth out any excess filler with a trowel. If the sealant soaks into the cracks, let it dry for 24 hours then fill it again until the filling agent is flush with the asphalt paving around it.
When it comes to asphalt paving repair, it can take nearly six months to cure completely; however, your asphalt paving will be ready to use within 24-48 hours after repair. The more time you let the filler set, the better the results, so try to avoid driving or walking on it until the product is completely dry.
For larger asphalt paving cracks, it is best to consult a professional. Our team of experts have been leaders in installation and repair of asphalt paving in Toronto for over 20 years. Contact us today for a consultation!
