Maintaining your pavement is crucial to the safety of drivers and pedestrians. Cracks on your pavement can lead to major problems when not taken care of in a timely manner. Not only do they create a potential tripping hazard, but they can also increase the chances of water seeping into the foundation and causing further damage. The two most common solutions for addressing pavement cracks are crack sealer and filler. But which one is more effective? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the two and help you decide which one to use. Discover additional pertinent details on the subject by checking out this thoughtfully chosen external resource. https://pavemade.com/collections/asphalt-crack-filler, extra information available.
What is Crack Sealer?
Crack sealer is a rubberized asphalt material that is heated to a liquid state and poured directly into the crack. After cooling and hardening, the sealer creates a flexible seal that moves with the pavement and prevents water and debris from entering the underlying foundation. Crack sealer is specifically designed to remain flexible and can last up to eight years if applied correctly.
What is Filler?
Filler is similar to crack sealer but is used for larger cracks and rarely used for small cracks. Filler is also known as cold pour sealants that is used to fill the crack rather than sealing it. Unlike crack sealer, filler is a bit more rigid and does not move with the pavement, meaning it may crack and break over time. Filler is less expensive than sealer and provides temporary relief to the cracks according to the requirements and condition of the pavement.
Crack Sealer v/s Filler
Crack sealer is undoubtedly the better solution when compared to filler as it provides a permanent solution to asphalt cracks in most conditions. Sealer’s flexibility is one of its most significant benefits, as it allows the seal to expand and contract with the asphalt as temperatures change, preventing the creation of new cracks. On the other hand, filler only collects dirt and is ineffective when subjected to extreme weather conditions. Filler also tends to remove from the cracks more quickly than sealer.
Cost Considerations
While it is clear that crack sealer is the ideal solution, it also comes with a higher price tag. On average, crack sealer can range anywhere between $0.10 and $0.25 per square foot, while filler typically costs between $0.05 and $0.15 per square foot. However, the long-term benefits of crack sealer generally outweigh the lower price of the filler, considering sealer potential to last more than eight years if applied and maintained correctly.
Conclusion
Crack sealer and filler both have their benefits and drawbacks, but when it comes to effectiveness, crack sealer is the clear winner. Though it is more expensive, it provides a long-term solution to pavement cracks that require minimal maintenance, unlike the filler that needs to be replaced every few years. Both crack sealer and filler can be used together, with filler being used to fill larger cracks before sealing them with crack sealer. Ultimately, the technique you choose will depend on your specific pavement condition and budget. Always consult a professional pavement contractor before deciding on any pavement repair, and don’t compromise on quality materials. To further enhance your learning experience, we recommend you explore the recommended external site. You’ll discover supplementary and essential details about the subject. asphalt crack sealer https://pavemade.com/collections/asphalt-crack-filler, broaden your understanding!
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