Description

Edge or shoulder cracking can be identified by its location on the pavement; the cracks run longitudinally, located within one or two feet of the edge of the asphalt. This is caused by poor drainage, a lack of support at the asphalt edge, the structural support compromised by heavy vegetation and/or heavy traffic along the edge, or underlying layers weakened due to settlement of underlying material or shrinkage of drying out soil.

If left untreated:

Shoulder cracking allows for moisture to infiltrate the asphalt causing the supporting layers to deteriorate. This can lead to roughness and raveled edges of the asphalt and shrinking pavement area.