Alligator cracking is a common problem in asphalt pavement that can lead to significant damage and safety issues if left untreated. This cracking resembles the scales of an alligator and is caused by a variety of factors. In this article, we will discuss what causes alligator cracking in asphalt and what you need to know to prevent and repair it.

What Is Alligator Cracking?

Alligator cracking is a type of distress that occurs in asphalt pavement. It is characterized by a series of interconnected cracks resembling an alligator’s scales. Alligator cracking typically occurs in areas of heavy traffic or with a high concentration of weight or stress on the pavement.

What Causes Alligator Cracking?

Alligator cracking can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Overloading: Overloading is one of the most common causes of alligator cracking. When a pavement is subjected to heavy loads beyond its design capacity, it can cause the asphalt to deform and crack.

2. Aging: Asphalt pavement naturally ages over time and becomes more brittle, which can lead to cracking and other types of distress.

3. Poor Drainage: Poor drainage can cause water to accumulate on the pavement, which can weaken the asphalt and cause it to crack.

4. Poor Design: Poor design or construction practices can lead to alligator cracking. For example, if the pavement is not properly compacted or the aggregate is not properly graded, it can lead to premature cracking.

5. Temperature Fluctuations: Temperature fluctuations can cause the pavement to expand and contract, leading to cracking.

How to Prevent Alligator Cracking

Preventing alligator cracking requires a combination of proper design, construction, and maintenance practices. Here are some tips for preventing alligator cracking:

1. Proper Design: Proper design is critical to preventing alligator cracking. The pavement should be designed to handle the expected traffic loads and should be constructed with proper materials and techniques.

2. Proper Construction: Proper construction practices, such as adequate compaction and proper grading of the aggregate, can help prevent alligator cracking.

3. Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as crack sealing and seal coating, can help prevent alligator cracking by reducing the impact of aging and temperature fluctuations on the pavement.

4. Proper Drainage: Proper drainage is critical to preventing alligator cracking. Pavement should be designed to allow for proper water drainage, and drainage systems should be properly maintained to prevent water from accumulating on the pavement.

How to Repair Alligator Cracking

Repairing alligator cracking requires a combination of patching and overlaying techniques. Here are some common repair methods for alligator cracking:

• Patching involves removing and replacing the damaged asphalt with new asphalt. This method is typically used for localized areas of alligator cracking.
• Overlaying: Overlaying involves placing a new asphalt layer over the existing pavement. This method is typically used for larger areas of alligator cracking or when the pavement is nearing the end of its service life.
• Reconstruction: In some cases, reconstruction may be necessary to repair alligator cracking. This involves completely removing the existing pavement and rebuilding it from the base up.

Conclusion

Alligator cracking is a common problem in asphalt pavement that can lead to significant damage and safety issues if left untreated. Various factors, including overloading, aging, poor drainage, poor design, and temperature fluctuations, can cause alligator cracking. 

Preventing alligator cracking requires proper design, construction, and maintenance practices, while repairing alligator cracking requires a combination of patching, overlaying, and reconstruction techniques. Understanding the causes and prevention methods for alligator cracking can help ensure asphalt pavement’s long-term durability and safety.

Economy Asphalt offers affordable asphalt in Omaha. We have the equipment and expertise to handle residential or commercial paving projects. Contact us.