Proper maintenance of your driveway is essential during the winter months. Otherwise, the material will deteriorate and produce unsightly cracks. Damage to your asphalt or concrete is often costly to repair and will require the assistance of experienced paving contractors after the spring thaw. Discover how easy it is to maintain your driveway by following these five simple steps.

5 Ways to Protect Your Driveway in Winter

1. Reduce Accumulation

Snow’s tendency to melt and refreeze wreaks havoc on a driveway. Moisture that trickles into the material will expand as it freezes if temperatures drop, causing tiny cracks to widen. The best way to keep this from happening is to clear the driveway after every storm to reduce exposure to moisture.

2. Apply Sealant

Moisture is more likely to impact a driveway that hasn’t been properly sealed. If it’s been a while since the material has been treated, have your paving contractors apply a solid coat of sealant. This will fill in gaps that may have developed along the surface and will protect against the elements.

3. Avoid Rock Salt

Rock salt effectively eliminates icy patches, but it also corrodes and discolors concrete. Sand is a much better option, as it produces sufficient traction for vehicles and pedestrians without harming your driveway’s surface. Though asphalt can withstand rock salt, apply it carefully, as it can damage your lawn or greenery. 

4. Purchase a New Shovel

Snow shovels that have been used for several winters will develop nicks and dents along the edges, making them more likely to damage your driveway. Before the first snowfall, paving contractors suggest inspecting your current shovel and purchasing a new one if there are signs of wear. 

5. Realign Gutters

Improperly aligned gutters allow snow melt from the roof to run across the surface of your driveway. The melt may infiltrate asphalt or concrete and will refreeze in cold temperatures. Redirect the downspouts away from the driveway to avoid water flow issues.

If you’re concerned about the condition of your driveway, reach out to the paving contractors at Beausoleil & Sons Construction, Inc. This family-owned company specializes in residential and commercial paving and is committed to complete customer satisfaction. They’ll take the time to discuss the details of each project before beginning work. They have over 40 years of experience and provide driveway paving services throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut from their base in Cranston, RI. Call (401) 632-0203 to speak directly with a friendly representative about your paving needs. View their portfolio of prior work online.