What Routing Is
Routing uses a mechanical wheel or router to widen and deepen a crack into a uniform reservoir before sealing. The result is a clean, straight-walled channel that hot rubber can bond to and expand within.
When To Rout
- Cracks wider than 3/8 inch
- Long transverse thermal cracks
- Cracks with irregular or crumbling edges
- Commercial and industrial pavements with heavy movement
- Long service-life goals
When Filling Without Routing Is Fine
- Hairline to 3/8 inch cracks
- Uniform, straight-edged cracks
- Residential driveways and low-cycle lots
- Cost-conscious maintenance where absolute maximum life is not required
The Trade-Off
Routing costs more up front but roughly doubles the effective life of the seal. On commercial properties where a re-seal in three years is more expensive than routing today, it is the economical choice. On a homeowner's driveway with fine cracks, direct filling is often the right call.
What Not To Do
- Never rout cracks that are already too wide (over ~1 inch)
- Never rout cracks with visible base failure — repair the base first
- Never rout without immediately air-blowing and sealing (open reservoirs collect water and debris)
Our crews carry both approaches on every job so we can match the technique to the crack, not the other way around.
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
Does routing hurt the pavement?
No — routing removes only the immediate crack edge material, which is already compromised.
How deep is a routed reservoir?
Typically 3/4 inch deep by 5/8 to 3/4 inch wide, tuned to the sealant manufacturer's spec.
Can you rout in cold weather?
Yes — routing is not temperature-dependent. Sealing that follows it is.