Crack Sealing in Salem, OR
Stop water infiltration before it destroys your pavement
What is Crack Sealing?
Crack sealing is a preventive pavement maintenance technique that involves filling and sealing cracks in asphalt surfaces with specialized rubberized sealant. This asphalt crack repair method creates a flexible, waterproof barrier that moves with the pavement through temperature changes, preventing water infiltration and extending the life of your driveway, parking lot, or roadway.
Professional crack filling differs from DIY solutions in both materials and technique. We use hot-applied rubberized crack sealant that bonds to the crack walls and remains flexible year-round. The process includes cleaning debris from cracks, routing wider cracks for better adhesion, and applying sealant at the proper temperature for optimal penetration and bonding.
In Oregon's wet climate, crack sealing is one of the most cost-effective pavement maintenance investments you can make. Water is asphalt's greatest enemy, and even hairline cracks allow moisture to penetrate the base layers. By addressing cracks early with professional crack sealing services, you prevent the exponential damage that leads to potholes, alligator cracking, and complete pavement failure.
Why Crack Sealing Matters in Oregon
Understanding why this service matters helps you make informed decisions about your property.
- Water Damage Prevention: Oregon receives 40+ inches of rain annually in many areas. Unsealed cracks allow water to penetrate the asphalt base, causing erosion, undermining structural integrity, and accelerating deterioration. Crack sealing creates a waterproof barrier that protects your pavement's foundation.
- Freeze-Thaw Protection: When water enters cracks and freezes, it expands by up to 9%, widening cracks with each freeze-thaw cycle. Even in the Willamette Valley, winter temperatures regularly dip below freezing, making crack sealing essential for preventing this destructive cycle.
- Pothole Prevention: Potholes begin as small cracks that allow water infiltration. As the base erodes and freeze-thaw cycles widen the damage, sections of pavement collapse. Timely crack sealing stops this progression, preventing costly pothole repairs and liability concerns.
- Significant Cost Savings: Crack sealing costs a fraction of asphalt replacement. Industry studies show that every $1 spent on preventive crack sealing saves $6-8 in future repair costs. Maintaining your pavement with regular crack filling extends its lifespan by 5-10 years.
Signs Your Pavement Needs Crack Sealing
Recognizing these signs early can save you money and prevent more extensive damage to your property.
- Linear cracks running along the length of the pavement surface
- Transverse cracks running across the pavement width
- Alligator or fatigue cracking patterns indicating base failure beginning
- Cracks wider than 1/4 inch that allow visible water penetration
- Edge cracks along the perimeter of driveways or parking lots
- Block cracking forming rectangular patterns across the surface
Best Time for Crack Sealing in Oregon
The optimal crack sealing season in Oregon runs from late spring through early fall, typically April through October. Crack sealant requires pavement temperatures above 40 degrees F and dry conditions for proper adhesion and curing. Spring is ideal because it addresses damage from winter freeze-thaw cycles before summer heat further expands cracks. Fall crack sealing prepares your pavement for winter by sealing entry points before the rainy season. We monitor weather conditions closely and schedule crack sealing during optimal temperature windows, typically on days when temperatures remain between 50-80 degrees F for best results.
How We Complete Your Project
- 1. Crack Assessment -- We evaluate all cracks to determine the best treatment method based on width, depth, and type.
- 2. Routing -- Cracks are routed to create a uniform reservoir that allows for proper sealant adhesion.
- 3. Cleaning -- Routed cracks are cleaned with compressed air to remove all debris and moisture.
- 4. Sealant Application -- Hot rubberized sealant is applied at the proper temperature for maximum bonding and flexibility.
Benefits of Professional Crack Sealing
- Prevents Water Damage -- Stops water from penetrating through cracks into the base, preventing erosion, potholes, and structural failure.
- Stops Crack Growth -- Flexible sealant prevents cracks from spreading and connecting, which would require expensive repairs.
- Extends Pavement Life -- Timely crack sealing can extend your pavement's service life by 3-5 years at minimal cost.
- Reduces Liability -- Sealed cracks create a smoother surface, reducing trip hazards and vehicle damage complaints.
After Crack Sealing Care
- 1. Allow 24-48 hours for the sealant to fully cure before heavy traffic
- 2. Avoid turning wheels sharply on freshly sealed cracks during the first week
- 3. Inspect sealed cracks annually and address any new cracks promptly
- 4. Keep the surface clean of debris that can hide developing cracks
- 5. Schedule follow-up crack sealing every 2-3 years as new cracks develop
Frequently Asked Questions
What size cracks can be sealed?
We can effectively seal cracks from hairline width up to about 1 inch wide. Cracks wider than 1 inch may require routing and filling with a different material, or may indicate structural issues that need patching or overlay. We assess every crack to recommend the best treatment.
How long do crack repairs last?
Hot-applied rubberized crack sealant typically lasts 3-5 years depending on traffic, climate, and the movement of the underlying pavement. Regular re-sealing of cracks that reopen is a normal part of pavement maintenance and is far cheaper than the damage that occurs if cracks are left untreated.
Is crack sealing worth it for an old driveway?
It depends on the overall pavement condition. If the asphalt is structurally sound with just surface cracks, sealing is very cost-effective. If there are widespread alligator cracking, base failures, or large settled areas, the investment is better spent on overlay or replacement. We provide honest assessments.
Service Area
We serve Salem and the surrounding Oregon area. Our coverage extends along the I-5 corridor from Eugene to Salem, reaching communities throughout Linn, Benton, Lane, Marion, and Polk counties. View all service areas
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us for a free estimate on crack sealing in Salem.