When it comes to pavement maintenance, knowing the right repair starts with correctly identifying asphalt cracking types. Every crack tells a story—about drainage, load patterns, base integrity or installation issues. For property managers, HOAs, and commercial sites in the Denver metro area, being able to recognize the most common asphalt cracking types means you can partner with Coatings, Inc. to apply the right solution—from crack sealing to full repair—before small issues turn into large ones.
Four Common Asphalt Cracking Types
Here are four of the most frequently encountered asphalt cracking types, what causes them, and what they imply for maintenance and repairs.
Reflective
This type of cracking shows up when new asphalt is laid over existing pavement that has joints or cracks. As the underlying surface moves or expands and contracts, the cracks “reflect” into the new layer. Reflective cracks are a sign of structural movement beneath the surface, making them more than a cosmetic issue. When you see this, it’s often an indicator that you’ll need more than just a surface seal—proper repair may involve milling or overlaying with additional stabilization.
Alligator (Fatigue)
Often called “crocodile” cracking because of its webbed or branching pattern, this form signals a failure in the asphalt layer or even the base beneath. Load stresses, weak or eroded subbases, and inadequate asphalt thickness all contribute. With this type, you’re usually beyond simple crack sealing; the damaged area frequently needs to be removed and rebuilt or at least heavily patched before any preventative measures are applied.
Edge
If you observe long cracks alongside curb lines or the outer edge of a pavement, you’re likely looking at edge cracking. Poor support at the pavement edge, erosion, or heavy loads on the shoulder can all trigger it. Thankfully, if caught early, edge cracking can often be addressed with crack sealing and improving drainage or soil support. Coatings, Inc. offers this as part of their crack‑seal service, making sure the edge support and seal are handled.
Transverse
These cracks run perpendicular to traffic direction or the centerline of the pavement. Typically triggered by temperature shifts (freeze‑thaw, asphalt shrinkage) or movement of underlying layers. In many cases, early transverse cracking responds well to crack sealing; however, if it is widespread or numerous, then overlay or resurfacing may be required. Recognizing this type early gives you the best chance for a cost‑effective repair.
Why It Matters for Your Pavement Maintenance
Understanding asphalt cracking types isn’t just academic—it directly influences the choice of repair method, budget, and lifespan of your surface. For instance, applying a standard crack seal to alligator cracking is a mismatch: you’ll likely see failures and recurring problems. Conversely, using an overlay when a simple crack seal in a low‑stress transverse crack would’ve sufficed wastes money.
At Coatings, Inc., our crack seal service is built around identifying whether the crack is surface‑level (ideal for sealing) or structural (requiring more intensive work). Our process includes cleaning the crack thoroughly, selecting the right sealant material, and applying work at optimal conditions—ensuring that pavement cracking types that are amenable to seal‑repair get the correct treatment and extend the life of your pavement. (Based on Coatings’ service page and their emphasis on prep, materials, and timing.)
By matching the repair to the identified asphalt cracking type, you’re more likely to avoid repeat damage, reduce disruption, and maintain a better‑looking, safer surface for longer.
The Takeaway for Property Owners
If you walk your lot or your roadway and spot cracking, don’t assume all cracks are the same. Ask:
- Does the cracking form a web pattern (alligator)?
- Are the cracks running parallel to traffic or the edge?
- Are they perpendicular to traffic?
- Are they in an overlay over old pavement (reflective)?
Once you identify the asphalt cracking types you’re dealing with, you can make smarter decisions: choose the right service, engage an experienced company like Coatings, Inc., and establish a maintenance plan that fits your budget and traffic needs. The right diagnosis leads to the right repair—and that means your pavement lasts longer and costs less to maintain.