The ground is always moving and that is a fact that will never change. Movement can be caused by the freeze-thaw cycles of the seasons, tree roots, heavy rains and/or drought.

Unfortunately, this ground movement can cause asphalt to crack. A crack scientifically and geologically can only start at the bottom (base) of the asphalt slab, which means that any substantial crack in asphalt is open to the base.

As Damico Paving seal coats your driveway, we will crack seal major cracks of 1/2" or greater, so that moisture cannot reach the stone base of the driveway; the small cracks are filled with seal coating. Water seeping into the stone base will cause the base to become soft. Once softened, it can no longer properly support the asphalt slab and the asphalt will begin to crack. Multiple cracks (alligator cracks) in an area is a good indicator that the base is soft. Unfortunately, once multiple cracks are present, crack sealing will not repair or save the asphalt.

When we apply crack sealant in a major crack, it will seal the crack from the base up, and close it off to the elements. This will help to prevent further deterioration of the asphalt. The cracks will be sealed, however, they will not disappear. The sealant will settle into the crack and will not be level with the asphalt surface. Because of constant ground shifting, any sealed crack may reopen over time. No one wants to see a crack in their asphalt, but taking proper steps quickly can extend the useful life of the driveway.

Seal coating severely cracked asphalt is for aesthetic purposes only. The rich black seal coating will enhance the appearance of the asphalt, but will not extend the useful life of the asphalt as it is beyond repair.

back to Sealcoating

| Home | Asphalt Paving | Asphalt Overlay | Sealcoating | Decorative Asphalt | Customer Compliments |