Protect your Asphalt Pavement from Harsh Winter Weather

The first major snowstorm of the season just hit our region, dropping just about 2 feet of snow across the greater Philadelphia area and New Jersey. You’ve probably spent the past few days shoveling, plowing and salting your asphalt driveway and parking lots, knowing these can have negative effects over time. With well over 2 months of winter ahead of us you may be wondering how to better protect your asphalt against this harsh winter weather! Since asphalt pavement is an investment, it is important to be prepared for the snow, ice and freeze-thaw cycles that can have devastating effects on your asphalt roads, driveways and parking lots.

6 Tips to Protect Asphalt Pavement during Cold Winter Months

Clear Pavement Before Snow Hits: Preparation is key when it comes to protecting your asphalt against the winter elements. A professional cleaning is a wise investment for two main reasons:

1. Reveals any cracks or potholes that should be repaired immediately
2. Identify & address large pieces of debris that can free and damage asphalt over the long winter months.

Fill Cracks & Sealcoat: This should be done several months prior to the bitter cold of winter settling in. To properly cure, temperatures cannot fall below 50 degrees.

Check for Pooling Water: Pooling water on your asphalt in early winter could bring potholes come springtime. Schedule an appointment with your local asphalt repair contractor to inspect any compromised areas and make plans for repairs.

Repair Potholes: Potholes should be repaired as soon as they’re detected to prevent them from spreading and compromising a large area of asphalt.

Consider Effects of De-Icing: While laying salt on a professional installed asphalt driveway will have little consequence, consider the environment before applying these chemicals. The salt will runoff into local waterways and affect surrounding plants and animals. Consider switching to a mix of salt and sand, which is good for melting, improves traction and has less environmental effects.

Shovel Regularly: The key to protecting your asphalt surface is to prevent pooling water, especially during the freeze-thaw cycles of winter. Take the time to completely remove snow before it can melt. This goes a long way in preventing water damage.

For quality asphalt repair, maintenance and inspections, call the experts at Exit 7 Sealcoating in Bordentown, NJ. With over 25 years in the asphalt maintenance and repair industry, our contractors are here for all your sealcoating and repair needs for residential and commercial properties.