If you have alligator cracks in your asphalt you may be wondering how to fix them. Alligator cracks are also known as Crocodile cracks and they are a type of pavement failure that can occur when the asphalt pavement is not strong enough to support the weight of traffic. Alligator cracks usually form in a web pattern and can be caused by a number of different factors including:
• Poor drainage
• Use of inadequate or improperly mixed asphalt
• Use of too little asphalt
• Use of too much asphalt
• Use of too much sand
• Use of too little sand
• Use of too much gravel
If you have alligator cracks in your asphalt you need to repair them as soon as possible. Alligator cracks will only get worse with time and if they are not repaired they can lead to larger and more costly problems such as potholes and sinkholes.
To repair alligator cracks in your asphalt you will need the following materials:
• Asphalt cold patch
• Shovel
• Tamper
• Broom
• Hose
• Asphalt sealer
• Measuring cup
• funnel
• Stiff brush
First you need to clean out the alligator cracks. Use a shovel to remove any loose debris and then use a tamper or a broom to compact the area. Next you need to wet the alligator cracks with a hose. This will help the cold patch material to adhere to the cracks.
Once the alligator cracks are wet you can then start to fill them with the cold patch material. Use a measuring cup to scoop the cold patch material out of the container and then use a funnel to pour it into the cracks. Fill the cracks all the way to the top.
After the cracks are filled use a stiff brush to compact the material. Then wet the material with a hose and apply a thin layer of asphalt sealer. This will help to protect the repair and will also give it a finished look.
What are alligator cracks?
Alligator cracks are cracks that resemble the skin of an alligator and are often caused by fatigue or repetitive loading of the asphalt.
What are the causes of alligator cracks?
Alligator cracks are often caused by fatigue or repetitive loading of the asphalt.
How can alligator cracks be prevented?
Alligator cracks can be prevented by ensuring that the asphalt is properly designed and constructed and by maintaining it in good condition.
What is the best way to repair alligator cracks?
The best way to repair alligator cracks is to remove the damaged asphalt and replace it with new asphalt.
Can alligator cracks be repaired without removing the damaged asphalt?
Alligator cracks can be repaired by filling them with an asphalt repair material but this will only be a temporary fix.
How long will a repair of alligator cracks last?
A repair of alligator cracks will last approximately three to five years.
What is the best time of year to repair alligator cracks?
The best time of year to repair alligator cracks is in the spring or fall when the weather is milder.
Will repairing alligator cracks make the asphalt look new again?
No repairing alligator cracks will not make the asphalt look new again but it will extend the life of the asphalt.
How much does it cost to repair alligator cracks?
The cost of repairing alligator cracks varies depending on the extent of the damage but it is typically $100-$300 per square foot.
Do alligator cracks always need to be repaired?
Alligator cracks do not always need to be repaired but it is recommended to do so if they are more than ½ inch deep.
What are the consequences of not repairing alligator cracks?
If alligator cracks are not repaired they will continue to grow and will eventually cause the asphalt to fail.
How long does it take to repair alligator cracks?
The time it takes to repair alligator cracks varies depending on the extent of the damage but it typically takes one to two days.
Are alligator cracks the same as regular cracks?
No alligator cracks are different from regular cracks in that they are typically wider and deeper.
What is the difference between alligator cracks and potholes?
The difference between alligator cracks and potholes is that alligator cracks are typically wider and deeper while potholes are usually shallower and less wide.
How do I know if my alligator cracks need to be repaired?
You will know if your alligator cracks need to be repaired if they are more than ½ inch deep.
