If you keep noticing that your asphalt is cracking this winter, you are not alone. All asphalt cracks during the winter months, because the snow and the ice melts and freezes continuously. All that expansion will create cracks in your asphalt.

You may not know exactly what to do with these cracks or when to call a professional, so here are 5 FAQs about all those asphalt cracks:

Can all those asphalt cracks be filled during the winter months?

The answer to this question is that yes, they can be filled, as long as the surface is dry. However, we do recommend having all cracks filled prior to the beginning of winter, as it is more difficult to complete during the winter months.

When should asphalts cracks be filled?

All asphalt cracks should be filled before they get too big and before they start to look like the back of an alligator. Once cracks begin to look like an alligator, there could be an issue with the subgrade, and no filler is going to hold for any length of time.

So, I can’t get any alligator cracks filled?

No, unfortunately by the time alligator cracks appear, the asphalt has begun to deteriorate. In fact, your asphalt would not be able to support the weight of any traffic in that area. You would need to have that entire area replaced.

Can I add sealcoat after filling cracks?

Yes, adding a sealcoat is actually a great way to ensure that your asphalt is protected. The filler and sealcoat will bond together making the asphalt stronger. However, it is important to note that the sealcoat can chip away from the filler as the filler expands and contracts throughout the winter.

What are the benefits of sealcoating?

We do recommend adding sealcoat, because it will fill any smaller cracks that are still too small to use filler on. That ensures that those smaller cracks will not get larger any time soon as the weather gets worse. Sealcoating will also protect your asphalt from the sun and make it easier to remove debris.

Asphalt Repair in Chicago

These FAQs should answer many questions that you may have on the cracks in your asphalt. We always recommend preventative maintenance, so that your asphalt looks as good at the end of winter as it did before the season began. This preventative maintenance will also save you money in the spring, because your asphalt will not need major repairs or replacing. Call us at 847-299-1830 to discuss asphalt repair and maintenance with us.