Why Asphalt Cracks
Asphalt naturally changes over time. Temperature changes, traffic, water movement and aging can all contribute to cracking.
Some cracks begin as small surface defects, while others can indicate movement in the pavement or base underneath.
Why Water Matters
Once a crack opens, water can enter the pavement structure.
If that moisture reaches weakened base material beneath the asphalt, the surrounding pavement can become more vulnerable to movement and deterioration.
Keeping water out of open cracks is one reason timely crack maintenance can be valuable.
Seasonal Movement in the Shuswap
Salmon Arm and surrounding Shuswap communities experience changing temperatures, winter snow, moisture and periods of freezing conditions.
As pavement and the material beneath it move through seasonal conditions, existing cracks can widen or spread.
Addressing suitable cracks early can help reduce continued water entry and slow further deterioration.
When Crack Filling Makes Sense
Crack filling is generally most useful when the surrounding pavement is still structurally stable.
If the asphalt has extensive base failure, large areas of deformation or widespread breakup, crack filling alone may not solve the underlying problem.
In those situations, patching, base repair or more extensive asphalt reconstruction may be required.
Residential Driveways
Driveway cracks often begin along edges, joints, previous repairs or areas affected by drainage.
Maintaining those cracks can be part of a broader driveway maintenance program along with patching, sealcoating and localized repairs.
Commercial Parking Lots
Commercial pavement can experience additional stress from delivery vehicles, turning traffic, snow clearing equipment and repeated vehicle loading.
Routine crack inspections can help property managers identify developing problems before they turn into larger potholes or pavement failures.
Crax Asphalt provides asphalt crack filling, pothole repair, driveway repair and pavement maintenance throughout Salmon Arm and the Shuswap.
Shuswap Phone: 250-253-2859
Shuswap Crack Filling Service Area
Our BC service area includes Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Enderby, Mabel Lake, Grindrod, Tappen, Blind Bay, Eagle Bay, Sorrento, Scotch Creek, Sunnybrae, Canoe and North Shuswap.