Asphalt surfaces in Minneapolis, St. Paul and the rest of the metro get the worst that Minnesota weather can offer – exposure to freezing temperatures, blazing summer heat, pounding rain, sleet, and snow. All of which can cause cracks that worsen over time. When left untreated, these cracks can turn into costly repairs, impacting safety, curb appeal, and property value. Understanding why asphalt cracks and how maintenance solutions like Asphalt Crack Sealing can protect your surfaces is essential for maintaining durable pavement. Gopher State Sealcoat offers reliable solutions designed to extend the life of your asphalt and prevent long-term damage.
Understanding Why Asphalt Cracks Occur
Asphalt may appear tough and solid, but it is a flexible material that expands and contracts based on weather conditions and external forces. When these factors become extreme or repetitive, cracks begin to form.
1. Natural Aging and Oxidation
Over time, asphalt is exposed to oxygen, sunlight, and moisture. This causes the binder, the component that holds the pavement together, to dry out and become brittle. As the asphalt loses flexibility, it becomes more prone to cracking.
2. Minnesota’s Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Regions like Minnesota experience drastic temperature shifts, making asphalt especially vulnerable. Water seeps into small pores and freezes, expanding and forcing the pavement to crack. When it thaws, the gaps grow larger, and repeated cycles accelerate deterioration.
3. Heavy Traffic and Weight Loads
Asphalt is designed to withstand everyday traffic, but excessive weight from delivery trucks, construction equipment, and frequent heavy use can cause stress on the surface. Over time, this pressure leads to cracking patterns such as fatigue cracks or alligator cracks.
4. Poor Drainage
When water cannot properly drain away from your pavement, it sinks beneath the surface layers. Standing water weakens the base and sub-base, causing cracks to form on the surface and expand over time.
5. Improper Installation
If asphalt is installed without proper base preparation or compaction, it will not be able to handle weather and traffic stresses. Weak foundations eventually shift or settle, creating cracks on the surface.
Common Types of Asphalt Cracks
Not all asphalt cracks are the same, and knowing the type helps determine the right repair method.
1. Surface Cracks
Small, shallow cracks are usually caused by oxidation or minor environmental stress.
2. Alligator Cracks
A pattern of interconnected cracks resembling reptile skin. These are signs of structural failure and require more than surface-level repair.
3. Edge Cracks
These appear near the sides of a driveway or roadway, typically caused by poor support or a shifting base.
4. Block Cracks
Large rectangular cracks that form when asphalt becomes too brittle from aging.
The Importance of Early Crack Repair
Once cracks appear, they will not go away on their own. If left untreated, water, debris, and plant roots infiltrate the pavement, worsening the damage. Early repair using Asphalt Crack Sealing provides a durable solution to keep moisture out and prevent larger, costlier issues.
How Asphalt Crack Sealing Protects Your Pavement?
Crack sealing is one of the most effective and affordable ways to extend the lifespan of asphalt. It slows deterioration, improves appearance, and protects the overall integrity of the pavement.
What Is Asphalt Crack Sealing?
Asphalt Crack Sealing is the process of filling cracks with a specialized rubberized material designed to expand and contract with temperature changes. This method prevents water from entering the cracks and causing further damage.
Benefits of Crack Sealing
Crack sealing offers long-term value and is recommended as part of a regular maintenance plan.
- Prevents water infiltration
- Reduces overall repair costs
- Extends the asphalt lifespan
- Improves visual appearance
- Helps avoid potholes and structural failure
Preventing Long-Term Asphalt Damage
Preventative maintenance is the key to protecting your investment. By taking proactive steps and partnering with a professional team like Gopher State Sealcoat, you can keep your pavement strong, smooth, and attractive for years.
1. Regular Sealcoating
Sealcoating protects the surface from UV rays, chemicals, moisture, and oxidation. It creates a protective layer that enhances durability and keeps your asphalt looking fresh.
2. Routine Inspections
Inspect your pavement each season. Early detection makes repairs simple and affordable compared to addressing severe damage later.
3. Prompt Crack Repair
Don’t wait for cracks to expand. Sealing cracks early is the most effective way to stop deterioration.
4. Improve Drainage
Make sure water flows away from your pavement. Gutters, curbs, and slope adjustments help preserve the asphalt base.
5. Avoid Heavy Loads
Whenever possible, keep heavy machinery or vehicles off areas not designed for them. Excessive weight accelerates wear.
Why Choose Gopher State Sealcoat?
Gopher State Sealcoat brings years of experience and professional-grade materials to every project. From residential driveways to commercial parking lots, the team delivers durable, efficient, and cost-effective maintenance solutions. Their expertise in Asphalt Crack Sealing helps prevent long-term damage and keeps pavements performing at their best.
Contact Us
Protect the life of your asphalt with expert care from Gopher State Sealcoat. Whether you need crack sealing, sealcoating, or full pavement maintenance, our team is ready to help with reliable, long-lasting solutions. Contact us at 952-931-9188 to schedule service or request an estimate.
