What Hot Rubber Actually Is
Hot rubber crack sealant is a rubberized asphalt polymer that arrives as solid blocks and is heated in a jacketed melter according to the manufacturer's application specification. At application temperature, it is a thick liquid that flows into cracks and bonds to the pavement walls. As it cools, it returns to a flexible, weather-resistant seal.
How It Differs From Cold Pour
- Flexibility. Hot rubber stays elastic through Georgia's temperature range. Cold pour hardens and cracks along with the pavement.
- Adhesion. Molten rubber wets and bonds to the crack walls. Cold pour sits in the crack but rarely bonds.
- Service expectations. Performance varies by product, installation, traffic, crack movement, climate, maintenance, and site conditions.
- Water sealing. A properly installed hot rubber seal actually stops water. Cold pour slows it at best.
The Correct Installation Sequence
- Sweep and clean the pavement
- Rout cracks that require it (widen the reservoir)
- Air-blow with high-pressure heated air to remove debris and moisture
- Apply hot rubber at manufacturer temperature
- Squeegee flush or leave a slight overband
- Dust with fine sand for skid resistance on traffic surfaces
- Return to traffic per manufacturer cure time
Skip the air blow and the sealant will fail early. Skip the temperature control and the sealant will not bond.
Product Selection
We use crack sealants that meet or exceed ASTM D6690 standards, matched to the climate and traffic type. Cheap materials save nothing — a failed crack seal costs more than a proper one every time.
When Hot Rubber Is Not The Right Answer
- Cracks over 1 inch wide → patch instead
- Alligator cracking → base repair
- Crumbling crack edges → rout and rebuild the reservoir first
Related Services
Explore the services connected to this topic in our Services library. Every job is scoped and priced in writing by the same family-owned team.
Get a Free Estimate
Quality Paving provides estimates throughout Middle Georgia and surrounding communities, subject to project location and scheduling. If you would like an honest assessment of your property, request a free estimate or call (770) 946-5355.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk on it right after application?
Once dusted with sand and cooled — usually within an hour.
Does hot rubber crack seal show through sealcoat?
A slight overband is visible until sealcoating covers it uniformly.
How cold can it be to apply?
Above 40°F ground temperature, dry pavement. Cooler than that and we reschedule.