Crack Filling and Sealing for Fenton, MI Pavement
Pro-Pave Asphalt delivers asphalt crack sealing services in Fenton, MI, to prevent moisture intrusion, pothole formation, and maintain pavement integrity as a cost-effective maintenance solution for residential and commercial properties.
Can Small Cracks Really Lead to Major Pavement Problems?
Yes, small cracks allow water to seep beneath the surface, where freeze-thaw cycles expand the damage and lead to potholes, base erosion, and costly repairs.
Water is asphalt's enemy. Once it penetrates a crack, it saturates the base material and weakens structural support. When temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, pushing the crack wider and lifting the pavement. Repeated freezing and thawing cycles turn hairline cracks into gaping holes in just one winter season.
Sealing cracks early stops this process. A flexible sealant fills the gap and prevents water from entering. The repair costs a fraction of what you'd spend on pothole patching or resurfacing, making crack sealing one of the smartest maintenance steps you can take.
How Do Professionals Apply Crack Sealant?
Professionals clean the crack thoroughly, apply a hot rubberized sealant that bonds to the pavement edges, and smooth the surface to ensure a watertight seal.
Cleaning is the first step. Dirt, vegetation, and loose asphalt fragments are removed with compressed air or wire brushes. A clean crack allows the sealant to adhere properly and create a lasting bond. The sealant itself is heated to a pourable consistency and applied directly into the crack, filling it from bottom to top.
Once applied, the sealant cools and forms a flexible barrier that moves with the pavement as temperatures change. This flexibility prevents the seal from cracking under stress. For property owners looking to protect their investment further, sealcoating and crack filler services in Fenton, MI can be combined in a single visit to maximize pavement protection. Fenton's lakefront properties and hilly terrain can create unique drainage challenges that make crack sealing especially important.
What Types of Cracks Require Immediate Attention?
Cracks wider than a quarter inch, those running perpendicular to traffic, and any crack showing signs of water pooling or vegetation growth need prompt sealing.
Wide cracks let more water in, accelerating damage. Transverse cracks, which run across the width of a driveway or parking lot, often signal underlying base movement and should be sealed quickly to prevent further spreading. If you see grass or weeds growing in a crack, water has already penetrated deeply, and sealing is urgent.
Alligator cracking, which looks like reptile scales, usually indicates more serious structural failure. In these cases, crack sealing alone may not be enough, and resurfacing or repair may be necessary. Regular inspections help you catch cracks before they reach this stage.
How Do Fenton's Lake-Effect Weather Patterns Impact Crack Formation?
Fenton's proximity to lakes brings heavy snowfall and rapid temperature swings, creating frequent freeze-thaw cycles that accelerate crack growth and pavement deterioration if left unsealed.
Lake-effect snow dumps moisture on pavement throughout winter. That moisture seeps into cracks and freezes overnight, only to thaw during warmer daytime hours. The constant expansion and contraction stress the asphalt and widen cracks rapidly. Sealing cracks before winter sets in gives your pavement the best chance to survive the season intact.
Spring thaw can also reveal hidden damage. After the snow melts, inspect your pavement for new cracks and schedule repairs promptly. If drainage issues contribute to cracking, concrete and drain repair services in Fenton, MI can address the root cause and prevent future problems.
Crack sealing is a simple, affordable step that prevents expensive repairs down the road. It keeps water out, preserves pavement integrity, and extends the life of your asphalt by years.
Pro-Pave Asphalt uses proven materials and techniques to seal cracks and protect your pavement in Fenton. Experience reliable crack sealing by calling 810-397-4685 to arrange your service.