Cracks can occur on the road due to a variety of reasons. Overloading, improper drainage systems, extreme temperatures and deterioration due to time are some reasons why road cracks occur.
Repairing the cracks is essential to avoid any mishappening on the road. The repairs extend the life of the roads, so it is important to fill up the cracks upon detection.
Various cracks are required to be repaired in order to ensure the road is smooth and even. Different types of road cracks can occur, such as:
Different Types of Cracks on Road
Here are some common cracks on the road that form:
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Alligator cracking
The alligator cracking consists of interconnected cracks that resemble the skin of an alligator. These cracks are formed due to a lot of traffic and loaded vehicles on the road.
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Block cracking
The cracks are in the form of blocks, which occur due to extreme temperatures. The asphalt can not contract or expand with sudden changes in temperatures.
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Longitudinal cracking
Longitudinal cracking is the cracking that forms along the centreline. The cracks are in a straight line parallel to the centre line because the traffic moves straight along the centre line.
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Depression
The depression in pavement occurs when the asphalte falls, creating a slightly lower elevation. The depression on the pavement is more visible when there is rain. The rainwater remains on the lower elevation, making the crack more visible.
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Potholes
The potholes are deeper as compared to depression. The potholes are shallow holes formed by breaking the pavement into pieces. They are usually formed if the alligator cracks are left unrepaired for a long time. The shallow hole accumulates the water and is also a great hindrance for the drives.
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Stripping
The breakage of the bond between asphalt and other aggregates causes stripping. The stripping begins from the bottom layer of asphalt and makes its way to the surface.
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Ravelling
Ravelling also involves disintegration between asphalt and other aggregates like stripping. The major difference between ravelling and stripping is that erosion begins from the surface and goes down the bottom layer of asphalt.
We have seen how to identify the different cracks that occur on the pavement. If the cracks are left unrepaired, then it can lead to major damage to the inner layers of the pavement. So, it is important to seal the cracks after they open.
The following procedure is used for road crack repair in South Australia:
How to Repair The Cracks?
Let us discuss how cracks are repaired on concrete surfaces, asphalt surfaces and concrete surfaces:
Repairing Cracks on Concrete Surfaces
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The crack is easily repaired if it is made into an inverted V shape.
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Use a chisel and a hammer to make the crack wider.
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Remove any dirt or debris from the crack. If required, use a hose to clean the crack.
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Make sure to use a vacuum or brush to remove excessive water.
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Use the concrete patching mixture as per instructions.
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Patch the surface with the concrete mix by using a trowel to spread the mixture properly.
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Let the mixture set, and then use paint or any other coating if required.
Repairing Cracks on Asphalt Surfaces
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Get rid of any broken asphalt pieces present on the surface.
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Use a vacuum or brush to remove any dirt particles.
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HP Asphalt Cold Patch is best to use on any surface, including wet surfaces. The mixture does not require any heating or special mixing.
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Just damp down the mixture and let it set.
There are various surfaces where the sealing of cracks is done. Road crack repairing is done at these places:
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Footpaths
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Roads
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Airports
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Cycleways
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Bridge Decks
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Carparks
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Driveways
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Floodways
Repairing Cracks on Bridge Deck Joints
Apart from crack sealing, certain infrastructures like bridges require more attention. The bridges tend to expand and contract due to changes in weather. In order to manage contraction and expansion, bridge deck expansion joints in Australia are used.
Generally, asphalt rubber sealant is used in repairing bridge deck joints, but there is a better option, which is Crafco Polyflex Sealant.
Crafco Polyflex Sealant is better than asphalt rubber sealant because:
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It contains 22% rubber, which helps in repairing the bridge deck joint better.
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An easy application that takes less time in repairing bridge deck joints.
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Polyflex Sealant is quicker opening to traffic as it settles quickly.
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It contains better hot and cold properties.
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It has the quality of better tracking resistance.
The Crafo Polyflex is the best option in repairing the bridge deck joint. The timely repair ensures that the bridge deck expansion joint remains intact.
Conclusion:
Repairing cracks is essential to prevent small cracks from becoming potholes. The potholes can then further turn into crates. So, it is best to take immediate action to prevent any major issues. If you want to buy sealants for repairing cracks or need expert assistance on repairing roads, contact Linemarking Plus.
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