Why Do Cracks Reappear After Filling?

Crack filling is an essential part of parking lot maintenance and is often performed by experts such as Capital Parking Lot Line Painting. However, even professionally filled cracks can reoccur due to several factors. In Newmarket, where weather conditions vary significantly, these factors become even more pronounced.

1. Incomplete Crack Preparation

Proper crack cleaning and preparation are critical before filling. If dirt, moisture, or debris remain inside the crack, the filler material won't adhere properly, causing it to separate and cracks to reappear.

2. Poor Quality Materials

Using substandard crack filler or sealant can lead to premature failure. Quality materials, like those used by Capital Parking Lot Line Painting, are designed to flex with temperature changes and resist wear.

3. Underlying Asphalt Damage

Sometimes cracks are a symptom of deeper issues such as base layer deterioration or poor drainage. Filling surface cracks without addressing these problems will only provide a temporary fix.

Environmental and Structural Factors in Newmarket

Newmarket, one of Ontario’s top 30 cities, experiences a range of weather conditions that impact asphalt longevity.

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Repeated freezing and thawing causes asphalt to expand and contract. Water seeps into cracks, freezes, expands, and worsens the damage. This cycle can cause filled cracks to reopen if the filler is not flexible enough.

Heavy Traffic Loads

Parking lots and roadways in Newmarket face constant pressure from vehicles. Heavy loads can stress the asphalt surface, causing cracks to widen and reappear after filling.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Reappearing Cracks

Many property owners attempt DIY crack repairs or hire inexperienced contractors, which often results in cracks reappearing quickly. Here are some frequent mistakes:

• Skipping the cleaning process before applying filler
• Using fillers not designed for the local climate
• Ignoring underlying drainage or structural issues
• Applying filler on wet or cold surfaces
• Not allowing sufficient curing time before opening to traffic

How to Prevent Cracks from Reappearing

To ensure long-lasting crack repairs, consider these best practices, often recommended by Capital Parking Lot Line Painting in Newmarket:

• Proper Surface Preparation: Clean and dry the crack thoroughly before filling.
• Use High-Quality Crack Fillers: Choose materials formulated for flexibility and durability.
• Address Underlying Issues: Fix drainage problems and base layer damage before crack filling.
• Schedule Repairs Wisely: Perform crack filling during dry, moderate weather for optimal adhesion.
• Routine Maintenance: Regular inspections and timely repairs extend the life of your asphalt.