Research justifies the treatment of cracks and joints in the highway because when left unchecked, cracks will lead to potholes. A much more costly defect to repair.

The truth is that roads have always broken up. It is accepted, within the industry, that asphalt does not last forever.

Another accepted norm is that tension occurs both on the surface and at the base of the asphalt. So that cracking can originate from on the surface as well as from underneath.

As every pavement engineer knows, surface damage forms much more readily in the presence of water. Add the action of freeze-thaw into the mix and a poorly sealed road surface will suffer premature failure.

So the timely intervention of crack repairs will preserve the life of the asphalt surface course and will be a cost effective method of achieving the original design life and beyond by sealing against the ingress of water. Using flexible, long lasting crack repair systems, independently tested and approved, will undoubtedly pay off the investment many times over with a preserved surface course layer performing as planned well into its service life.

Read the article here on pothole formation, experiments and theory by Nick Thom, University of Nottingham publish in April 2014

Pothole formation: experiments and theory

Roads are essential infrastructure, but over time, they are subject to wear and tear, leading to the formation of cracks. Several factors contribute to road cracking. One primary cause is the natural expansion and contraction of the pavement due to temperature fluctuations. As temperatures rise and fall, the road materials expand and contract, eventually causing cracks to develop.

Another significant factor is heavy traffic loads. Frequent and heavy vehicles passing over the road can exert immense pressure on the pavement, leading to fatigue and eventually crack formation.

Environmental factors also play a role. Moisture infiltration from rain or groundwater can weaken the road's base and subbase layers, making it more susceptible to cracking.

Furthermore, inadequate road design and construction practices can contribute to cracks. Poor drainage, insufficient base support, or using low-quality materials can accelerate road deterioration.

Cracks lead to potholes and premature failure of the surface course. Timely treatment of cracks will preserve the life of your asset.

Crack sealing is used as the primary means of sealing the surface of roads to prevent future potholes from forming and is recognised as the leading method in preventing water ingress into a road surface. Jointmaster is the leading UK system for repairing those cracks and joints in highways and motorways. 

Roads crack because movement occurs in a road surface, and the surface is too stiff to accommodate that movement. The Jointmaster range of products consists of a highly polymerised, flexible repair bituminous binder, mixed with carefully selected aggregates, to create a system that accommodates movement without cracking or deforming under traffic. This system can be rebated into the road surface, or surface applied. This ensures the road surface does not crack again and remains watertight. 

Bituminous crack repairs with Jointmaster materials are compatible with the surrounding asphalt, ensuring that the repair does not adversely affect the existing surface. Jointmaster has been performing successfully in the UK road network for more than ten years and is evident across 90% of the UK motorway network.  

Importance of Repairing Road Cracks in the UK: Mitigating the Effects of Freeze-Thaw

Maintaining road infrastructure is a critical aspect of ensuring safe and efficient transportation. One of the primary challenges that roads in the UK face is the harsh weather cycle of freeze-thaw. This natural phenomenon poses significant risks to road surfaces, making it essential to address cracks promptly and effectively.

Understanding the Freeze-Thaw Cycle:

In the UK, the weather is characterized by frequent temperature fluctuations, especially during the winter months. The freeze-thaw cycle occurs when water infiltrates into cracks and crevices in the road surface. During freezing temperatures, this water expands as it turns into ice, exerting immense pressure on the surrounding pavement material. As temperatures rise above freezing point, the ice melts, leading to a reduction in pressure. This freeze-thaw process repeats, causing the road surface to undergo stress and weakening its structure over time.

Impact on Road Cracks:

Road cracks are the entry points for water, allowing it to seep into the road layers beneath the surface. During the freeze-thaw cycle, this trapped water expands and contracts, exacerbating the size and depth of the cracks. As a result, potholes and more extensive pavement deterioration can develop, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike.

The Importance of Timely Repairs:

Addressing road cracks promptly is vital in mitigating the detrimental effects of freeze-thaw cycles. Timely repairs can prevent water from penetrating the road layers, reducing the likelihood of further damage. When cracks are left unattended, water infiltration persists, leading to larger and more expensive issues that require extensive road rehabilitation.

Enhanced Safety:

Repairing road cracks enhances road safety significantly. Cracked and deteriorated roads pose hazards to motorists and cyclists, potentially causing accidents, vehicle damage, and injury. By filling or sealing cracks, road authorities create smoother surfaces, minimizing the risk of skidding and improving vehicle traction, especially during wet and icy conditions.

Longevity of Infrastructure:

Regular and appropriate maintenance, including repairing cracks, can significantly extend the lifespan of roads. Preventing water from infiltrating the pavement layers ensures the underlying materials remain structurally sound and less susceptible to freeze-thaw damage. Consequently, well-maintained roads withstand the challenges of the UK weather cycle, reducing the frequency and scale of costly repairs or complete road reconstruction.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Addressing road cracks early on is a cost-effective approach to infrastructure management. Investing in proactive maintenance and repair saves money in the long run by preventing minor issues from escalating into major, budget-draining problems. Furthermore, timely repairs reduce the need for emergency repairs and traffic disruptions, benefiting both road users and the economy.

Conclusion:

The UK's weather cycle of freeze-thaw presents a significant challenge for road maintenance. By understanding the importance of repairing cracks and the potential consequences of neglecting them, we can ensure safer and more durable road infrastructure. Proactive maintenance and timely repairs are essential in preserving road quality, enhancing safety, and reducing long-term costs associated with road deterioration.