Service
Crack Chasing
Shepherd and Sons Contracting ltd
WHAT IS CRACK CHASING?
Crack chasing is a method used to repair and seal cracks in concrete and asphalt surfaces, such as roadways, car parks and pavements. The goal is to prevent water intrusion, slow further deterioration, and extend the life of the surface. Crack chasing involves cutting or routing along the length of a crack to create a uniform, clean, and V- or U-shaped groove that can be effectively filled with a sealant or patching material.
Benefits of Crack Chasing:
- Extends the life of pavement or concrete surfaces
- Reduces water infiltration
- Prevents more severe deterioration
- Cost-effective vs. replacement
Crack chasing contractors in Kent and across the UK
We are based at Little Westerhill Farm near Maidstone in Kent and chase and seal cracks in concrete and asphalt nationwide, working days, nights and weekend possessions. Chasing is a preparation stage rather than a finish, so it is normally programmed immediately ahead of sealing or overbanding rather than as a visit of its own. The South East is served from our own yard, and anything longer or further afield is mobilised as a national programme.
Where the chase carries a cable rather than a sealant, the technique is the same but the tolerances are not. See cable chasing for AGL ducting.
For a plain explanation of the technique, see what crack chasing is.
Shepherd and Sons ltd
In Concrete:
Purpose: To create a clean, consistent groove for epoxy, polyurethane, or other sealants, and to Improve bonding of the repair material.
Process:
- Clean the surface – Remove debris, dirt, and loose material from the crack
- Chase the crack using an angle grinder or a crack chasing saw with a diamond blade.
- Vacuum or blow out the dust and debris.
- Apply a bonding agent, if needed.
- Fill the groove with a flexible joint sealant or repair compound.
- Tool the sealant flush with the surface.
Shepherd and Sons ltd
In Asphalt:
Purpose: To prevent moisture from getting under the pavement, which causes potholes and base failures.
Process:
- Blow out the crack to remove debris.
- Use a router or crack chaser to widen and deepen the crack slightly, allowing better sealant adhesion.
- Clean again to remove dust.
- Apply hot-pour rubberized crack sealant using a crack sealing machine or pour pot.
- Let it cure