UFC 3-270-02
15 March 2001
and the speed of the router is controlled to prevent the router from jamming in the crack. Careful
quality control and inspection can minimize these problems.
10.1.2.1. Checking for dust and debris in the crack is a relatively simple procedure; rub a finger
along the crack, and, if the finger gets dusty, the crack is dirty. Checking for moisture is more of a
judgment decision. There is no test for checking the moisture of a crack except by observation or
feeling with one's hand. It is important that the crack is dry at the time of sealant application so
that the sealant will bond to the pavement.
10.1.2.2. The last problem dealing with crack preparation is deciding which method to use. This
is a problem because most cracks are not uniform in size and the surrounding pavement will have
varying degrees of deterioration. Decisions must be made as work progresses. The main
consideration for crack preparation is that the crack be cleaned without damaging the surrounding
pavement.
10.1.3. Application. There are two major problems associated with crack sealant application.
The first problem, brittleness of the sealant material due to overheating or prolonged heating, was
discussed in the "Materials" paragraph. Brittleness is a materials problem because some sealant
materials are more susceptible to overheating than others, but it is also an application problem
because it can be corrected by implementing a good quality control program. The second
problem is overfilling the crack. The sealant can be tracked onto the pavement and abraded if
the crack is overfilled. Quality-control measures and inspection can reduce the overfilling of
cracks. A squeegee or similar object can be used to remove areas of excess sealant.
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