Pavement "Crack and Seat" Technique 1

[GPFuan]

The crack and seat technique is a pavement recycling method where the existing PCC pavement is cracked and seated in place before constructing an asphalt overlay on top; it's normally done to minimize reflective cracking in the asphalt. Does anyone know if this method would work where the existing PCC pavement is reinforced? Thanks.

 

[Jim6758]

It shouldn't matter whether the pavement is reinforced or not as long as the pieces can be well seated. Most pavement only has crack control steel in it. The last time I researched this for a pavement rehabilitation project, the consensus seemed to be that the key to success is making sure the pieces are small enough(about 12 inches max). If you are putting down a base course and a surface course over the cracked concrete and you want to be sure, there are some reinforcing grid products that go between the ashphalt layers and resist reflective cracking. Don't use them in contact with the concrete however, as some don't do well chemically with the alkali content of the cement.

If you intend to use this method in a residential area, you would do well to document the pre-existing foundation and wall cracks, inside and out, swimming pool cracks, etc., as you are sure to own every one when the project is complete.