Crack Conditions That Change the Repair
A clean working crack in otherwise sound asphalt may be suited to sealing. A crack with broken edges, adjacent settlement, or a pothole needs a different kind of attention.
Traffic loading, drainage, and the amount of cracking also matter. A highly fractured area can be too distressed for a simple sealant application, especially if the base moves beneath it.
- Isolated linear cracks with sound surrounding pavement.
- Cracks with loose or crumbling edges.
- Clusters of interconnected cracks in a wheel path.
- Openings next to a settled patch or pothole.
Temperature and Moisture Affect Sealing
Crack-sealing materials have installation requirements for temperature and moisture. Delaware winter precipitation can leave openings damp or icy, making actual pavement conditions relevant to timing.
- Check whether the crack is dry before treatment.
- Follow the selected material’s temperature requirements.
- Keep traffic off until the material has set as directed.