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Edge/Shoulder Cracking

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.

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.