Asphalt takes a beating from the summer heat, but the winter period can do a lot of damage as well. During the fall period, everyone who has paved surfaces should start preparing to get these areas through the cold months of winter. Winter damage can be costly, and any flaws that you ignore during the warm months will be even worse after the thaw. Follow these tips if you want to protect your paved surfaces from icy temperatures.
Carry Out Repairs
Every paved surface, whether it is a driveway or parking lot, is subject to a lot of stress from the movement of vehicles. This means that some minor damage is bound to occur before winter arrives. Check these areas for potholes and cracks and repair them. When water and ice gets into these damaged areas the damage will get worse, and after winter, you will be paying more for repairs. Carry out repairs while the weather is still warm enough.
Seal the Surface
Sealcoating is an essential step in extending the life of asphalt surfaces. Sealcoating products will fill in the small cracks so that no water gets in and helps the water to run off quickly. These products vary in quality, so look for a well-known brand if you plan to do the job yourself. Sealant products also slow the buildup of snow and ice. Asphalt maintenance experts use quality materials and products for this purpose. Leaving the job to them will ensure that your asphalt gets the protection it needs for winter.
Clear Ice Quickly
Ice and snow removal should be an ongoing process throughout the winter, as long as conditions allow. If snow and ice continue to accumulate, this means more weight on the paved surface. Removing the snow quickly will help to maintain the integrity of the asphalt. Snow can be shoveled off, but ice will be more difficult to remove. Use a deicer if you can’t chip away the ice.
Choose Deicers Carefully
Some of these products are more effective than others, and a few may be so harsh that they damage the asphalt. Avoid any deicing product that has harsh chemical ingredients. If you are in doubt about the quality of the deicing product, spread sand on the ice for better traction. Contact an asphalt technician to get rid of the ice.
Just to be safe, avoid parking heavy vehicles on your asphalt areas in winter if possible. Carry out these steps before each winter and your driveway or parking lot will last longer.
