UFC 3-270-02
15 March 2001
CHAPTER 2
PURPOSE OF SEALING
2.1. Purpose. The purpose of sealing cracks in asphalt concrete pavements is to protect the
pavement structure from premature failure. Unsealed cracks allow water intrusion and debris
retention in the crack opening. Water intrusion in the cracks penetrates into the base and
subbase materials creating the potential problem of a loss of strength in these materials. The
weakened pavement structure can result in load-related failures such as alligator cracking
(Figure 2.1.). The debris retention can cause the pavement to "push up" at the edges of the crack
when the pavement expands due to thermal changes. This decreases the rideability of the
pavement surface. These failures and deficiencies increase the life-cycle cost of the pavements
by requiring increased maintenance.
2.2. Reduce Maintenance Costs. The use of proper crack preparation and sealing techniques
can extend the effective life of the sealant, thereby increasing the life of the pavement and
reducing maintenance costs.
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