Crack repair and asphalt crack sealing in Toronto can be a complicated job with a lot of factors that impact when it should be done, how much it’ll cost, how long it will last, etc. Going in blind, in other words, is not a good idea.
To that end, we’ve got a handy guide below that will help you figure out when you need commercial parking lot repairs in Toronto and which asphalt repairs services are going to get the job done right.
But first, let’s identify the different types of asphalt cracks so you know what you’re dealing with.
Types of Asphalt Cracks
Shrinkage Cracks
It’s not just a funny Seinfeld reference: shrinkage cracks are a real threat to your lot. Typically caused by a fluctuation in traffic volume on the asphalt, they are caused by the asphalt expanding after a prolonged period of less vehicles passing above, and usually have very distinct angles and corners.
Block Cracks
Block cracks are typically seen dividing large sections of your asphalt into rectangular chunks with long, visible cracks forming the borders. These cracks are typically caused by either shrinkage or temperature changes and are bigger than shrinkage cracks.
Longitudinal Cracking
These cracks run parallel to the centerline of the asphalt. They are different than most other cracks as they develop on the surface of the asphalt, rather than beneath the ground working its way up. These types of cracks are usually exacerbated or born in very cold, freezing temperatures.
Edge Cracking
These are longitudinal cracks that appear within two feet or so of the outer edge of your asphalt.
When Should You Conduct Crack Repair?
It’s only natural that you’ll see some cracks in your asphalt appear over time; one crack, in other words, is not usually reason enough to call in full asphalt paving services in Toronto.
That said, routine maintenance (about once a year) can help identify bigger issues that could develop into serious (and expensive) repair jobs down the line. And asphalt crack sealing in Toronto is a great middle path that gets your lot looking pristine and professional without requiring a huge and costly job.
The key, again, is having the sealing done early enough before the issues grow out of control and require a full-on repaving effort.
How to Prepare for Asphalt Crack Filling?
So, what can you do to prepare for asphalt crack sealing in Toronto to make sure you get the most out of the job and help accelerate it?
Get Rid of Weeds in the Cracks
Weeds and the like are notorious for finding even the slightest bit of cracks in the surface of the ground and making their homes there. You’ll need to uproot these weeds before engaging in crack sealing, which can usually be done with a screwdriver or chisel.
Remove Dirt and Debris
Much like the weeds, dirt and debris can get in the way of getting the job done right. And if not done before the asphalt repair services contractors arrive, it could slow down the job considerably (meaning you’ll be left longer without a fully functional lot).
In other words, these cracks need to be totally clean and as dry as possible before the job begins. Cracks that have filled up with litter, sand, stones, or any other debris need to be cleared completely.
The best way to accomplish this full clean is through high pressure air being sprayed into the cracks. Typically, a 90 PSI or higher device is your best bet.
When doing the cleaning, you’ll want to make multiple, slow passes through the crack to really make sure it’s thoroughly cleaned out. You’ll also want to blow away any debris that’s been freed from the crack to ensure that it doesn’t get blown back into the hole.
If you find that there’s heavy debris in the crack that doesn’t budge with the air pressure, try breaking it up into smaller pieces and removing it by hand (with work gloves on, of course).
And finally, you’ll want to try and clean oil spots and other liquid stains with a brush. You’ll also want to dry the cracks with a hot air lance in the lead up to the job.
It may seem like a lot of work, but trust us, it’s well worth it—it’ll help your job get done much more smoothly.
Measure Cracks
Another good rule of thumb is to measure the cracks beforehand. This can help speed along the job and give your provider of asphalt paving services in Toronto necessary preliminary information, so they know what they’re working with (although they’ll also likely send someone in advance to get a good look at the lot before the job begins, circumstances depending).
You’ll want to measure the width, depth, and length, as these factors will help determine which method the asphalt repair services provider will use.
Get Industry-Leading Asphalt Crack Sealing in Toronto That Lasts
Now that we know how to identify when you need commercial parking lot repairs and how to prepare for them, you’re ready to work with one of the best providers of asphalt paving near the GTA: Ivy Property Services Inc.
We are experts at everything from total repair services to smaller jobs like pothole and asphalt crack sealing in Toronto. In other words, we can handle all your commercial parking lot repairs.
Contact us today and receive a free quote for asphalt paving near the GTA. Call us at (416) 818-0970 or send us an email at info@ivypropertyservices.com.
