Hot pour asphalt crack filler

Types of hot pour asphalt crack fillers

Asphalt cracks can be repaired using a variety of crack fillers and sealants. The most effective products for filling asphalt cracks are

• Hot Pour Crack Filler: This is a flexible rubber material that is heated to 160-180 degrees Celsius and poured into the asphalt cracks. This type of filler is strong enough to expand and contract with climate changes. It usually lasts longer and stays flexible for a more extended period compared to other sealants. Hot-pour crack filler is ideal for alligator cracking or where large amounts of stress are expected on the pavement.
• Crack Sealant: It is sold in various sizes and forms, including liquid and powder. Crack sealant is made from a combination of asphalt cement and rubberized plastic, which allows it to expand and contract with changing temperatures. It can effectively fill the cracks when applied before seal coating. The optimum application temperature is between 50 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but sealant can be used when temperatures are above 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It is ideal for random cracking.
• Asphalt Crack Filler: It comes in two types: latex and oil-based fill. Cracks should be cleaned before application, and if too much filler is added, the surface may become slippery and dangerous. Ideally, crack filler should be used on small cracks and not larger gaps. Latex filler is recommended for smaller cracks of ¼ inch or more, while oil-based filler can efficiently fill up to 1-inch gaps.
• Cold Pour Crack Filler: It can also be referred to as liquid elastomeric crack filler. It is composed of rubberized asphalt and is typically sold in a resealable container with a spout for easy application. The filler is applied by pouring it directly into the crack and then using a caulking gun to fill in any areas that need additional filler. It is essential to clean the crack of debris, loose asphalt, and vegetation thoroughly. The primary difference between cold pour crack filler and other types is that other fillers need to be heated before application, while cold pour crack filler is ready to use.
• Integral Crack Sealant: It is a material used to fill in cracks after an alligator cracking has occurred. It is essentially a rubberized sealant that is poured into the cracks to help prevent water infiltration and further damage to the pavement. Integral crack sealant is typically used as part of a comprehensive pavement maintenance plan and should be applied after any necessary repairs to the underlying base material.

Specifications and Maintenance of Hot Pour Asphalt Crack Fillers

Specifications

• Packaging Options

  Asphalt crack fillers typically come in two packaging options:

  • Drums

    Each drum can hold up to 205 liters or 50 gallons of filler. Using a drum-sized quantity of filler is especially helpful when dealing with significant crack issues in larger areas, as it reduces the need for constant refilling of the filler.

  • Boxes

    Each box contains a 12-gallon/45-liter filler, which is a smaller quantity compared to the box option. Using a box-sized quantity of filler allows for more straightforward handling and application in smaller project areas where less filler is needed.

• Temperature and Melting Point

  It is critical to heat the asphalt crack filler until it reaches its melting point to ensure proper application and effectiveness. The temperature required for this heating process is typically between 340 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit (up to 204 to 204 degrees Celsius). Heating the filler until it reaches its melting point activates its properties and makes it easier to fill cracks effectively.

• Alcohol, Chemical, and Petroleum Product Resistance

  Hot pour asphalt crack fillers are specially designed to provide resistance against various substances that could potentially harm or damage the filler. These substances include alcohol, chemicals, and petroleum products. By using an asphalt crack filler that offers resistance to these materials, the integrity and performance of the filler can be maintained even in environments where such substances may be present.

Maintenance

To keep asphalt cracks from getting worse and damaging the pavement, it's essential to keep filling them with hot pour asphalt crack filler. Regularly inspect the area for new cracks and fill them as soon as they appear before they become more extensive.

By doing consistent crack sealing maintenance, the life of the pavement can be significantly extended. Not filling in the cracks early on will allow water from rain and snow to get into the base material, which will cause it to deteriorate quickly. Taking just a little bit of time to fill in newly formed cracks on an ongoing basis will prevent water infiltration and save the underlying support of the pavement from deteriorating.

In summary, it's crucial to rapidly refill newly identified asphalt cracks with hot pour crack filler on a regular basis to stop further damage from occurring. Don't wait until the cracks become larger and water begins compromising the base material - be proactive in filling small cracks now to protect the entire surface area from rapidly declining and needing more extensive repairs in the future.

Scenarios of hot pour asphalt crack fillers

It is critical to fill asphalt cracks to prevent further damage and deterioration of the pavements. Hence, hot pour crack fillers can be used to fill cracks in the following scenarios:

• Parking lots and garages

  Parking lots and garages often use asphalt pavements. However, due to constant exposure to vehicle traffic weight and the weather elements, parking lots and garages asphalt cracks can easily form and worsen over time. Nonetheless, using a hot pour crack filler can extend the asphalt pavement lifespan.

• Roads and highways

  Asphalt materials are commonly used to construct roads and highways. However, overtime potholes and cracks can form, resulting in a bumpy ride. Also, the situation can worsen and endanger the motorists. Therefore, hot pour crack fillers are used to fill potholes and cracks to improve the roadway quality and provide a smooth and safe ride for motorists.

• Airports

  Runway asphalt pavements at an airport are regularly subjected to extreme pressure from aircraft movements. Also, weathering can cause cracks and fall the pavement. Thus, using a hot pour crack sealer can safeguard the runway and ensure the aircraft's safe and smooth movement.

• Shopping centers and retail stores

  The retail and shopping center industry must be concerned about the state of the parking lot provided for the customers and how welcoming it looks. As such, when cracks begin to show, filling them promptly with a hot-pour asphalt crack filler is a proactive approach to preserving a positive image and ensuring that customers enjoy their time at the store or shopping center.

• Industrial facilities

  Facilities in industries like manufacturing and warehousing deal with heavy traffic from forklifts, trucks, and other vehicles. Thus, in order to maintain the integrity of the asphalt surfaces used in these facilities and eliminate potential hazards that could result from cracks and deteriorated asphalt surfaces, ensure to use a hot pour crack filler. Keeping the surfaces smooth is essential for the safety of employees and machinery.

• Stadiums and arenas

  Stadiums and arenas often have parking lots and asphalt pathways. Athletes and guests often move through them regularly. Hence, to maintain a pleasant experience for visitors and to protect the facilities utilized for events and gatherings, it is important to regularly monitor these asphalt surfaces for any cracks and to fill them with a hot-pour asphalt crack filler as soon as they are observed.

How to choose hot pour asphalt crack fillers

When buying hot pour asphalt crack fillers, buyers need to consider several factors, including the pavement surface, climate, crack size, product quality, applicator, and budget.

• Pavement surface: Different surfaces need different fillers. For instance, concrete surfaces require a specific type of filler formulated for concrete because the movement of cracks is distinct and different from that of asphalt. On the other hand, utilizing a product not designed for asphalt may yield ineffective results.
• Climate: The climate of the area can also affect the type of hot asphalt crack filler to purchase. In regions experiencing temperature fluctuations, it is important to get products that can flex and contract with the changing temperatures to prevent re-cracking.
• Crack size: It is also important to note that not all fillers are formulated to fit different sizes. Some products are specifically designed for hairline fractures, while others are meant for large gaps. Therefore, after identifying the crack sizes, buyers should select fillers that will ensure a smooth, lasting repair.
• Product quality: In addition to choosing the right type of filler, it is equally important to consider the quality of the product. Some low-grade fillers might be cheaper but will quickly fade and break down.
• Applicator: Buyers should also consider the type of applicator they will be using to apply the crack filler. Choosing a product compatible with the chosen applicator will ensure efficient application and a successful repair.
• Budget: Lastly, buyers need to consider their budget. Even though the cost might be a factor, it is essential to invest in a high-quality crack filler to avoid frequent repairs and higher costs in the future.

Hot pour asphalt crack filler Q&A

Q1. How long does it take for crack filler to dry?

A1. Mainly environmental condition depends on it. The crack filler will dry faster when the temperature and humidity are high. Typically, it can dry in 30 minutes and completely cure in 24-48 hours.

Q2. Can users drive on crack filler immediately?

A2. Users can immediately drive on crack filler after filling the cracks if the product has been heated to the proper application temperature and the road is not over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. But it's better to wait a day or two for optimal results.

Q3. Can hot pour crack filler be applied in the rain?

A3. No, hot pour crack filler should not be applied in the rain. Water can prevent it from bonding properly, leading to diminished effectiveness.

Q4. How long will hot pour crack filler last?

A4. If properly applied, hot pour crack filler can last 5-8 years depending on the extent of the cracks, weather conditions, and traffic.