Fatigue cracks, commonly referred to as alligator cracks, are very common in areas that have experienced heavy traffic loads, such as parking lots and driveways. When the asphalt surface beneath the pavement experiences extreme weight and force overtime, it can cause the surface to break apart and crack. The cracks resemble an alligator’s skin, so the name was born! Alligator cracking can be a concern if left unaddressed because it can lead to more serious structural issues.
Why does it happen?
Alligator cracks can develop for a variety of reasons. Often, it’s due to issues with underlying drainage. If water is pooling up underneath your pavement, that can cause considerable stress and movement. Another common cause is improperly compacted aggregate material. If there are too many voids in your asphalt, you’re likely to see a high concentration of fatigue cracking on your driveway or parking lot. You may also see alligator cracking if your pavement or road is already aging or reaching the end of its lifespan.
How can we help?
Fixing alligator cracking is our specialty. We can help you whether your curb has a few small patches of cracking or if you’re experiencing cracking on a larger scale. Our company ensures that fatigue cracks don’t worsen in future years, potentially causing even more damage. A professional patch job can prevent expensive repairs down the road by eliminating fatigue cracks before they worsen. In addition to fixing your cracked asphalt, we also perform maintenance services such as crack sealing to keep those unsightly gaps from forming in your driveway or parking lot.
Call the team at DC Paving & Sealcoating today!
Alligator cracking can be unsightly, but it also indicates a structural issue in your pavement. DC Paving & Sealcoating is ready to get those alligators out of your parking lot. Contact us today!