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Can Sealcoating Be Used As A Crack Fill?

Paving professionals have been debating whether or not a sealcoat can be used as a crack fill. Some people say it is an effective way to repair tiny cracks, while others believe that doing so will only lead to more extensive and more costly problems in the future.

So, what’s the truth? And more importantly, what should you do if you have a small crack in your pavement? Keep reading to find out!

What is Sealcoat?

Sealcoat is a black, tar-like substance applied to asphalt driveways and parking lots to protect them from sun damage, water damage, and wear and tear. Property owners should opt for seal coating every two to three years to keep their pavement looking its best.

Can Sealcoating Be Used As a Crack Fill?

Whether or not you can use a sealcoat as a crack fill depends on the size of the crack. If it’s genuinely tiny (we’re talking millimeters), you might get away with using a sealcoat. But, if the crack is even slightly more significant than that, you’ll want to opt for another repair method.

The sealcoat is too thin to fill cracks that are even slightly larger than millimeters effectively. If you try to use a sealcoat as a crack filler, you’ll likely end up with an uneven surface that looks worse than it did before. And over time, the crack will continue to grow and eventually need to be repaired properly.

So, what should you do if you discover a little fracture on your driveway? The best thing to do is fill it with a sealant specifically made for cracks. This will ensure that the gap is filled evenly and won’t cause any further damage down the road.

However, if you have a larger crack, you’ll need to consult a paving professional. They’ll likely recommend either patching or repaving the entire area, depending on the severity of the damage.

What Damages Can Sealcoating Lead To?

If you decide to use a sealcoat as a crack filler, you’ll likely end up causing more damage than if you had just left the crack alone. Not only will the sealcoat not effectively fill the crack, but it can also allow the crack to grow larger and damage the surrounding pavement.

Other Options to Deal with Cracks

Of course, a sealcoat isn’t the only way to deal with cracks. You might want to consider patching or repaving as other options.

Patching is a quick and easy way to repair tiny cracks, but it’s not always the most effective method. Patching involves filling the gap with a cold or hot asphalt mix and compacting it.

The problem with patching is that, over time, the patch can sink or become dislodged, which can lead to an uneven surface.

On the other hand, repaving is a more permanent solution, but it’s also much more expensive. Repaving involves completely removing the old asphalt and then laying down new pavement.

The Bottom Line:

In the end, it’s always best to consult with a paving professional before taking any action. They’ll be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Birmingham Sealcoat Inc offers high quality commercial crack fill and seal coating services for businesses in Rochester Hills.

Call us today for a free estimate!