Does milling typically remove most surface cracks 3-3.5 inches deep caused by aging and surface stress?

Milling is a common pavement maintenance technique that involves removing the surface layer of asphalt to create a smooth surface and prepare it for new asphalt application. However, it is important to understand the depth of surface cracks typically caused by aging and surface stress.

Surface cracks that are 3-3.5 inches deep represent a significant depth that extends beyond the surface layer. Milling primarily addresses issues present in the upper layers of asphalt, typically around 1-2 inches deep, to remove distressed material and provide a level base for resurfacing. While milling helps in mitigating some surface concerns, it is generally insufficient to address deeper structural issues or cracks that extend beyond the milling depth.

This understanding clarifies why the answer is false; milling does not typically remove substantial or deep cracks caused by aging and surface stresses. Such cracks may require additional treatment, such as full-depth reclamation or overlay processes, rather than just milling.