For conventional crack repair methods to be effective, cracks need to be wide enough to allow sealant to flow into the cracks. Infrared repair and reclaiming can be applied when cracks are very narrow, even when hardly visible to the human eye. One source of infrared rays is the sun. In the last 25 years machine produced infrared rays have been used in road repairs. Many cities and towns are finding it an effective and cost-effective way to repair small cracks and to level the road surface.
Municipalities can also use infrared on sidewalks, playgrounds, and tennis courts.
Infrared Rays vs. They cannot be seen but they produce heat deep inside an object. In other words, infrared rays cause a rapid movement of asphalt and aggregate that create heat. Asphalt oils evaporate, and causes separation of the asphalt from the aggregate. Whether applied by a hand-held torch or large machine, heating pavement changes the inherent characteristics of the pavement.