Whether you just have an asphalt driveway or you have an entire parking lot, the rules are the same for how you should prepare for the upcoming winter. While there is no rule that you need to prepare for winter, it does make it easier in the spring, because you won’t need to repair as much or replace anything.
Here are 4 tips to follow as you prepare your asphalt for winter:
Snow removal
Yes, you can let the snow pile up on top of your driveway or parking lot, but that will cause a lot of issues beyond not having a place to park your vehicle. A lot of snow will put a ton of pressure on your driveway, which will cause it to crack, crumble, and fall apart. We recommend that you either plan to remove the snow yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.
Inspect all your snow removal tools
It is always important to inspect all your tools before you use them to remove the snow for the first time in the season. Plows can become damaged over time, snow blowers will need routine maintenance, and shovels can break or get damaged after a lot of use. If you check these items early enough, you will have everything fixed and ready in time for the first snowfall of the season.
Seal your asphalt
Any of the cracks or holes in your asphalt will easily fill with snow and eventually melted snow. That water will then seep under your asphalt and cause larger holes and significant damage. Therefore, we recommend that you fill any cracks and add a sealant prior to the beginning of winter to avoid needing a new driveway or parking lot after winter.
Use the proper ice melt
Everyone thinks that ice melt is all the same, but we can tell you that that is not the case. We recommend that you only use ice melt that has a calcium base. You should never use one that includes ammonium or any type of fertilizer.
Winter Asphalt Maintenance and Repair in Chicagoland
If you take the time now to prepare for the incoming snow, you should be ready to tackle anything that Mother Nature sends your way. We know that no one really enjoys removing the snow from their driveway or parking lot, but it is better than making expensive repairs in the future. Give us a call at 847-299-1830 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
