Correctly installed pavement will provide years of trouble-free service, however, it must be maintained properly to maximize its life. It is important to seal-coat your pavement within 12 months of installation and every three to five years thereafter. It is also necessary to seal any cracks exceeding ¼ inch in width and complete any other needed repairs in a timely manner.

Not only does seal-coat protect and extend the life of your asphalt, it also enhances the visual appearance and increases the value of your property. Seal-coat protects your pavement from the harsh rays of the sun and moisture, as well as from chemical spills such as oil, gas and other agents that can deteriorate the asphalt.

Although there are multiple variables, the condition of the base is the most important factor in determining if your current pavement can be resurfaced. If base failure is evident, you probably should not consider an overlay. The only accurate way to make this determination is to have your pavement inspected by a trained professional.

RDS Paving and Sealcoating Service Areas in PA include: Harrisburg, Linglestown, Lancaster, Landisville, Columbia, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Elizabethtown, Mt Joy, Donegal, Hershey, York, Hummelstown, Lititz, Manheim, Lebanon, Middletown, Dauphin, Carlisle, New Cumberland, Enola, Marysville, Lemoyne, Palmyra, Annville, Grantville, Wrightsville, Lewisberry, Dillsburg, Ephrata, Millersville, Mountville.

Alligation (sometimes referred to as Alligatoring) describes cracks that resemble an alligator's back. Alligation is caused by failure in the sub-grade, most likely due to water penetration. Because Alligation typically spreads, areas affected by it often must be removed, the sub-grade re-compacted or reconstructed, and the asphalt replaced.

Asphalt settles in much the same way as a new home settles onto its base. The amount of settling puts a strain on the base and asphalt by expanding and contracting the asphalt, which sometimes leads to small cracking. Cracking can also be caused by factors such as asphalt shrinkage or a compromised sub-grade. Any cracks exceeding 1/4 inch in width should be addressed, with the type of repair depending on the nature of the crack. If the crack is caused by settling of the base the cracks should be sealed. If the crack is caused by a defect in the sub-grade (see "Alligation") the section of pavement will likely have to be repaired.