What does 'crazing' most commonly refer to in asphalt?

Crazing most commonly refers to surface cracking in asphalt. This condition manifests as a network of fine cracks that appear on the surface layer, often as a result of various factors such as aging, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations. Over time, these small cracks can expand and lead to further deterioration if not addressed.

While heat damage, moisture absorption, and color fading are issues that can affect asphalt, they do not specifically define the condition known as crazing. Heat damage may cause softening or deformation, moisture absorption can lead to underlying issues like structural weakening, and color fading relates to the loss of pigment due to environmental exposure. However, crazing is specifically identified by the presence of those fine, surface-level cracks that indicate the asphalt's wear and age. Understanding this terminology is essential for identifying and addressing asphalt surface conditions effectively.