Asphalt is the go-to for most residential and commercial paving projects for several reasons!
The product is versatile, inexpensive, easy to maintain, and very easy to repair. When asphalt driveways crack and break, the quicker you contact professional paving contractors in Passaic County, the better.
At NVN Paving, we can handle any commercial or residential asphalt crack repair, from one crack in your backyard driveway to multiple larger cracks in a massive commercial parking lot!
Residential Asphalt Crack Repair in Bergen and Passaic County
Driveway cracks happen, and when you notice the presence of several hairline or spider cracks in your driveway, it is time to call in the professionals.
Remember, your driveway isn’t only functional but also a central focal point, and several unsightly cracks or potholes can significantly impact your exterior’s aesthetics.
A DIY crack filler from your local hardware store is a band-aid and will only last for a short period. The best option is to have even minor cracking repaired by a professional.
Why and How Driveway Cracks Form
Asphalt driveway cracking is, unfortunately, unavoidable. The real reason driveway cracks form isn’t typically movement in the earth beneath the asphalt but instead a combination of New Jersey’s climate, sunlight, snow, rain, moisture, and asphalt’s naturally porous nature.
The Negative Impact of UV Rays on Your Asphalt Driveway
New Jersey winters can seem bleak, and oftentimes, it seems like the sun doesn’t come out for weeks or even months! Fast forward to summer in Passaic and Bergen County, and you will experience never-ending sunshine!
The sun’s UV rays dry out the asphalt, eventually causing it to become fragile and more susceptible to damage.
Water Infiltrates the Smaller Cracks and Causes Big Problems
The once-pliable asphalt is now very dry, and more minor cracks have already started to form. The tiny cracks will begin to grow after a few weeks and some water runoff, rain, snow, or other moisture.
These cracks are more than just an eyesore; if left untreated, the issue will worsen, and eventually, massive potholes will form.
In winter, the lower temperature and freezing water inside the cracks worsen the problem.
You can’t beat Mother Nature, but you can have professionals perform repairs for you! Contact us for a free estimate on all your asphalt paving needs.
Filling and Repairing Your Driveway Asphalt Cracks: A Step-by-Step Guide
You can fix cracks on your own, but do you really want to spend your Saturday afternoon with a trowel, wire brush, and a compressed air gun trying to fix all those blacktop cracks?
Why not enjoy some relaxation and leave this messy job to the pros at NVN Paving?!
Here is a step-by-step guide to how our fantastic team will fix all the minor and massive cracks and deep damage on your driveway:
The Affected Area is Cleaned, and the Surface is Prepped
The crew will thoroughly clean out the cracks, removing any dirt, loose debris, or weeds inside the cracks.
Also, clean the driveway surface itself with a broom. A leaf blower is a terrific way to remove dirt and debris quickly for larger areas.
Next, a hose or pressure washer is used to remove any small particulates. The final step is to let the area dry thoroughly. Crack filling will not be successful if the area is not prepped correctly.
The Crack is Repaired with Asphalt or Crack Filler
The product type and application depend on the crack’s depth, width, and length.
For example, the pros might use a caulking gun or putty knife to fill superficial, thin cracks with an emulsified rubber material. Larger cracks require additional care because they are not only longer but also deeper:
- Fill the crack with pea gravel, sand, or small, fine rocks.
- Heat asphalt crack filler or patch filler and pour it directly into the crack; if hot mix asphalt is used.
- Tamp down the asphalt and repeat as necessary.
In winter, professionals use a rubber crack filler or a cold mix of asphalt to repair all cracking and damage. This is the best option if you have a driveway emergency.
Allow the Product to Dry
Once the asphalt pavement is filled, we will smoothen the product and allow it to dry thoroughly. If possible, we recommend waiting for more favorable weather.
Ideally, no snow should be on the ground, and the humidity levels should be low for several days. Is there rain in the forecast? Consider putting the repair off for several days, unlike it is warm and arid.
The Application of Asphalt Sealant
Applying sealant is a necessary step that many homeowners overlook.
The seal will not only protect the asphalt from Mother Nature’s damage, but it will also prevent discoloration from contaminants, from gasoline to motor oil.
This is why we recommend driveway sealing after any repairs, large or small.
The Best Commercial Parking Lot Repair Company in New Jersey
In addition to expertly repairing residential driveways throughout Passaic and Bergen County, NVN Paving is one of the best commercial paving companies in New Jersey.
The process of repairing cracks in commercial driveways and parking lots is the same as that of our residential clients, just on a larger scale.
Rest assured that no matter how big your lot, our team has the tools, experience, and know-how necessary to do the job right!
How Often Should I Have Cracks and Damaged Repaired in Parking Lots?
We recommend having any cracks repaired ASAP, or at the very least, yearly. Seal coating should be reapplied every two to three years.
If you recently installed a new driveway or lot, you should have a second coat of sealant applied next summer.
Creating a schedule to have your lot regularly repaired or repaved can be confusing. Allow the best asphalt paving company in Bergen County to help create a simple maintenance schedule!
Filling and Fixing Your Parking Lot Cracks in a Timely Manner
Asphalt repair is our specialty, and when you hire the fantastic team at NVN Paving, we provide a wide variety of exceptional services guaranteed to meet and exceed all of your needs, including:
-
- Preventative maintenance
- Emergency asphalt repair
- Asphalt seal coating
If you need driveway paving services nearby, remember to call NVN Paving!
How Can I Prevent Asphalt Parking Lot and Driveway Damage and Cracks?
Wear and tear on your asphalt lot is unavoidable, but there are ways you can slow down the process. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you slow down the deterioration and formation of cracks:
- Apply a fresh layer of lot sealant to your lot at least every two to three years.
- Clear snow and ice before it can melt, and the water seeps into the slight cracking.
- Contact a pro at the first sign of several smaller cracks and minor damage.
Our Customers Also Ask
How long does the asphalt crack sealer last?
The lifespan of sealant is dependent on several factors. For example, our NVN Paving Service Areas customers can expect their sealant to sufficiently protect their blacktop from damage for at least two years.
Of course, when a lot or driveway is cared for properly, including regular cleanings and the prompt removal of snow and ice, the sealant will last even longer!
How do I permanently fix a crack in my driveway?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to permanently repair any cracks or damage to your New Jersey driveway.
You can consistently fill them, but the same problem will keep occurring. The best thing you can do is have minor cracking and damage repaired immediately.
Watch for signs that it is time to rip out your existing driveway completely and have it professionally replaced, including:
- Severe cracking, extensive damage, and several potholes.
- Your driveway is sinking or appears very uneven.
- Extensive fading, discoloration, and staining.
- Tree root damage.
- The driveway’s age.
What is the best repair for driveway cracks?
You have three main options to repair every crack in your driveway: crack filler, cold mix asphalt, and hot mix asphalt.
A seasoned professional can help you determine the perfect fix for your New Jersey driveway.
For example, we often recommend hot mix asphalt for paving parking lots because of the product’s durability.
Hot mix asphalt is the best option for a thorough fix in summer.
However, if you require emergency asphalt repairs in winter, your team will use either a rubberized crack filler or cold mix asphalt to perform the repair.
During the summer, our team will take advantage of the heat and use a hot mix of asphalt to fill every crack and pothole.
