Crack Filling vs. Crack Sealing – What’s the Difference?

When it comes to maintaining asphalt pavement in Jacksonville, Florida, property owners often face the question: should you invest in crack filling or crack sealing? While these two maintenance services may sound similar, they serve different purposes and deliver different levels of protection for your asphalt surface. Understanding the difference can save you money, extend the life of your pavement, and keep your property looking its best.

Why Asphalt Cracks in Jacksonville, FL

Asphalt pavement naturally expands and contracts due to temperature changes, heavy traffic, and moisture exposure. In Jacksonville’s hot and humid climate, these issues are amplified. Afternoon storms, rising summer temperatures, and occasional cold snaps cause asphalt to shift, leading to cracks. If left untreated, cracks allow water to seep beneath the surface, weakening the base and leading to potholes, alligator cracking, and costly repairs.

That’s where crack filling and crack sealing come in—both are proactive maintenance solutions designed to prevent small cracks from turning into major pavement damage.

What Is Crack Filling?

Crack filling is the process of applying a hot or cold asphalt-based material into non-working cracks. These are cracks that don’t significantly expand or contract with seasonal temperature changes.

• Best for: Smaller, less active cracks caused by aging asphalt or light surface wear.
• Lifespan: Generally lasts 1–2 years before reapplication is needed.
• Purpose: Provides a quick, cost-effective way to prevent water infiltration and minor damage from spreading.

For many Jacksonville driveways, parking lots, and private roads, crack filling is an affordable maintenance option to address early surface issues.

What Is Crack Sealing?

Crack sealing, on the other hand, is a more long-term solution. It uses specialized rubberized sealants that flex with the pavement. Unlike crack filling, crack sealing is designed for working cracks—those that expand and contract with weather and traffic.

• Best for: Wider or deeper cracks that are subject to movement.
• Lifespan: Typically lasts 5–8 years when applied correctly.
• Purpose: Provides a flexible, watertight seal that prevents moisture and debris from entering the crack, extending the life of the pavement.

Because Jacksonville’s climate can cause significant thermal movement in asphalt, crack sealing is often the better choice for long-term durability.

Key Differences Between Crack Filling and Crack Sealing

While both methods address cracks, here are the main differences:

1. Durability: Crack sealing lasts longer and provides stronger protection.
2. Flexibility: Crack sealing materials expand and contract with the pavement, while crack filling materials are more rigid.
3. Cost: Crack filling is generally less expensive upfront, but sealing can save money over time by extending pavement life.
4. Application: Crack filling is a quicker, simpler process; crack sealing requires more specialized materials and equipment.

Which Option Is Best for Your Jacksonville Property?

The right choice depends on the condition of your asphalt and your budget. For small cracks and minor surface wear, crack filling is an excellent short-term solution. For larger, more active cracks—or if you want long-term protection—crack sealing is the better investment.

Commercial property owners, HOAs, and business complexes in Jacksonville, St. Johns County, and the surrounding North Florida area often choose crack sealing as part of a comprehensive asphalt maintenance plan. Driveway owners may opt for crack filling if the pavement is newer and only has minor cracking.

Protect Your Asphalt Investment

Whether you choose crack filling or crack sealing, addressing cracks early is the key to avoiding expensive repairs later. Small cracks left untreated can quickly turn into potholes, base failure, and complete asphalt replacement.

At PJ Asphalt Paving, we provide expert asphalt crack repair services in Jacksonville, FL, tailored to your property’s specific needs. Our experienced paving contractors use high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure your pavement stays smooth, safe, and durable for years to come.

Call the Jacksonville Asphalt Experts

If you’re unsure whether crack filling or crack sealing is the right choice for your pavement, our team can help. We’ll inspect your asphalt, explain your options, and recommend the best solution to extend its life and protect your investment.

Contact PJ Asphalt Paving today for professional asphalt crack repair, sealing, and paving services in Jacksonville, Florida.