Interconnecting cracks that visually resemble the pattern on an alligator hide, hence the term "alligatoring." These cracks begin at the bottom of the layer of asphalt and due to the flexing action of asphalt over an unstable base, these cracks progress through the  

thickness of  the  asphalt layers. By the time they are visible on the surface, the pavement has failed. These failures are typically more prevalent in high traffic areas or near dumpster enclosures.

In the areas of the pavement surface where failure is showing (areas of "alligatoring") we may propose removal of the failed asphalt and replacement with a thicker cross-section of newly placed and compacted asphalt. This repair process is commonly referred to as R&R or patching. It is recommended that the new "patch" be placed at a minimum thickness of 1½ times the original asphalt depth to bridge any inherent weakness in the base material in that area. Calvac Paving will mill, saw cut or jackhammer the perimeter of the failed areas. At the edges of the patches, it is necessary to remove a minimum of 12" of asphalt surrounding the visible cracks. This allows us to tie into solid asphalt for a more durable patch. All excavated spoils are then hauled to a legal dumpsite (Calvac Paving makes a conscious effort to recycle all spoils).  The existing base material is then re-graded and compacted to a 95% relative density. An asphalt emulsion tack oil is applied to all vertical edges of the existing asphalt and we will then pave the patch with the specified thickness of hot-mix asphalt, placed and compacted in lifts no greater than 3" to achieve optimum compaction. After we finish the rolling of the new asphalt it is then fog sealed.

Cause

A failure of the base material causing it to become soft. This causes the asphalt to flex and crack. When the asphalt begins to crack it allows in additional moisture that softens the base material surrounding the original cracking, causing "alligatoring." It is also possible that the existing pavement section is too thin to withstand the type of traffic that it encounters.

Finished Product