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Winter brings cold temperatures and harsh weather that can wreak havoc on paving and asphalt if they are not ready to endure the elements. Before the snow and ice roll in, it is critical to call a paving contractor to prepare your commercial property for the chilly season. Here are five tips for getting paving ready before the temperatures drop.

How to Prepare Paving for Winter

1. Cleanup

Remove any debris, leaves, and dirt from the paving’s surface. Debris will compact as cars, snow, and ice add weight, which then weakens the pavement as particles are ground in deeper. Also, check for oil and coolant spots from vehicles and have them cleaned up as soon as you can to prevent them from degrading the asphalt’s top layer. The stronger your pavement, the less likely it will crack and be prone to moisture getting inside that weakens it further.

2. Sealcoating

Apply a fresh layer of sealcoating to protect paving from cracking and to strengthen it against snow, ice, rock salt, and snowplows. Sealcoating provides a water-resistant surface that also boosts the look of your commercial paving. The black color is also beneficial in retaining heat so that snow and ice will accumulate at a slower rate on the pavement.

3. Crack & Pothole Repair

pavingPatch any cracks and potholes, even if they are small. The winter weather will only compromise these weakened areas further, causing small cracks and holes to become large fissures and depressions that are dangerous for cars and pedestrians. Cracks and potholes also open your paving up to water damage. Once water gets inside, it will expand and contract in the sublayers as it freezes and thaws, which affects the integrity of your asphalt.

4. Storm Basin Maintenance

Proper drainage is critical during a heavy storm. Make sure storm basins and other drain components are clear and functioning well to stop precipitation from pooling on your lot or driveway. While drain maintenance is important year-round, it is best to have storm basins inspected just before the harsh winter storms begin so you are not stuck with a clogged drain and excessive water accumulating on your pavement.  

5. Snow Removal

Contact a snow removal company and have them ready to handle your paved areas as soon as possible. The longer snow and ice linger on asphalt, the more trouble they cause. Ensure the equipment they use is safe for paving and that they have a stellar reputation for minimal damage around curbs and on the asphalt. Find out what they use to melt ice and ensure it is environmentally safe and will not corrode your paving material.

 

Call Beausoleil & Sons Construction today to prepare your paving for winter. These paving contractors bring more than 40 years of quality services to Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut to keep commercial paving, asphalt, and driveways in strong shape no matter the weather. To schedule an appointment call (401) 632-0203 or visit them online.

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