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What Is Alligator Crack Asphalt Repair?

As a property owner or manager, it’s vital to keep an eye out for all forms of damage and invest in prompt repairs. However, alligator crack asphalt repair is something you can’t afford to ignore. This form of severe damage is a ticking time bomb that can lead to even worse issues the longer you ignore it. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is Crack Asphalt Repair?

Alligator cracks are a unique issue characterized by their distinct appearance. As the name suggests, cracks resemble alligator skin. They’re a network of interconnected cracks that typically develop in high-traffic areas. The weight of frequent traffic causes the damaged pavement to flex, creating that signature pattern.

While many assume that standard asphalt crack repair will fix this issue, that’s not the case. There are many potential causes for alligator cracking, but this asphalt repair problem is always a byproduct of the loss of support below the pavement. That lack of support can stem from soil erosion, poor drainage, or excessive weight. Whatever the case, the problem is more than surface deep.

Asphalt repair contractors must perform more extensive work to address alligator cracking. Asphalt repair costs are more substantial, but professional attention is paramount. Failing to correct alligator cracking will lead to continued spreading. Eventually, the pavement can fail completely. Additionally, the damage presents a significant safety concern that could harm pedestrians or damage vehicles. The sooner you get a comprehensive asphalt patch in Houston, the better.

How Does Alligator Crack Repair Work?

The go-to method for asphalt repair when addressing alligator cracks is asphalt patching. This technique is more involved than standard asphalt crack repair, requiring contractors to cut out the damaged material, correct or replace the damaged base layers, and repave the area with a new asphalt patch in Houston.

After inspecting the damage and determining the right approach, asphalt repair contractors will cut out the affected area. Generally, contractors play it safe by going beyond the damaged area, ensuring they can access the faulty base layer in its entirety. Teams will use saws to break apart the asphalt as they unveil the foundation below.

Here’s where asphalt repair contractors will need to apply their expertise. Depending on the nature of the damage, experts can either repair the base layer or replace it. Repairs could involve adding new aggregate and compacting it to enhance load-bearing capacity. Alternatively, teams may remove all the base material to replace it with new aggregates.

While the foundation is open, contractors should also address any drainage issues before proceeding with asphalt patching. Drainage concerns can cause alligator cracking to return, so skilled contractors will cover all your bases and correct issues that could cause problems to persist.

After performing the repair, teams will lay and compact new asphalt to restore your pavement.

Is Repair a DIY-Friendly Job?

Many try to save on asphalt repair costs by taking a DIY approach. However, for alligator cracks, that’s not something you should ever attempt. Alligator cracking is a serious issue that requires precision and considerable expertise to complete correctly. Failing to do things right could cause the problem to develop again, forcing you to pay even more in asphalt repair cost.

Always turn to experienced asphalt repair contractors. They have the tools and experience to do asphalt patching the right way, addressing any and all issues to help you put alligator cracking in the past.

Can You Use a Temporary Asphalt Patch to Correct?

Another way that people try to save money when performing asphalt repair is to use temporary cold patch compounds. While many other forms of damage do well with temporary patches, that’s not the case for alligator cracking. Because the problem is deep-rooted, temporary asphalt patching often isn’t enough to prevent spread.

You need professional asphalt crack repair and a comprehensive inspection of the affected base layers. It’s only after contractors correct the damaged foundation that the problem is truly resolved. Using temporary patches isn’t the best use of your time or resources. For longevity, it’s vital to correct foundation damage and use permanent hot asphalt patching.

Whether you need an asphalt patch in Houston to correct alligator cracks or standard crack repair, you can turn to Pelagic Paving. Our services include asphalt paving, sealcoating, repairs, crack repairs, concrete repairs, parking lot striping, ongoing maintenance, ADA compliance, and more. We always take a personalized approach to asphalt repairs, analyzing every defect closely to develop a solution that works. Our team works closely with you from start to finish, offering good communication and complete transparency for your peace of mind.

Don’t let alligator cracks ruin your asphalt paving. Call Pelagic Paving at (346) 200-9537, email Info@pelagicpaving.com, or use our online form to reach out and get your free project quote today.