Harsh winter weather can severely damage your driveway if you fail to properly maintain it as the temperature drops. To keep your asphalt in excellent condition, and prevent the need for asphalt repair, consider the following guide.

Preventative Care for Asphalt

Check for Damage

Before winter hits, you’ll want to examine your asphalt for cracks, erosion, and any other signs of damage. If you notice any problem areas, address them immediately so that snow and ice don’t exacerbate these issues. If the surface needs to be sealed, scrub and rinse the pavement to create a clean slate.

Apply Sealcoating

One of the best defenses against snow, ice, rock salt, and de-icer is sealing the pavement. Once the asphalt is clean, apply a seal coating to help repel moisture throughout the winter.

Asphalt Care During Winter

Shovel Regularly

Throughout the winter, shovel your driveway regularly. Removing snow before it freezes into ice and expands can prevent it from creating cracks in the pavement and eroding the asphalt. Avoid metal shovels and opt for plastic instead, as metal can scratch and damage the surface of your driveway.

Be Selective with De-icer

Throughout the winter, many homeowners will apply de-icer to their pavement as a safety precaution. It lowers the freezing point of water and dissolves ice so that the pavement isn’t slippery. However, certain products, such as rock salt, tend to be unforgiving on the pavement. They speed up asphalt deterioration triggered by the freeze-thaw cycle and shorten the lifespan of the driveway. The key is to select a de-icer, such as Magnesium Chloride, that’s more gentle on the surface.

 

If your pavement is damaged before or during winter, you’ll want to contact a professional asphalt contractor to address the problem immediately. For over 70 years, homeowners and business owners have put their trust in Jellisons Best Blacktop in Shakopee, MN, for everything from reliable asphalt repair to commercial paving. This reputable, family-owned business will conduct a thorough on-site analysis, providing a free estimate and accurate quote within your budget. To schedule your free estimate, give them a call today at (952) 890-4664 or visit them online for more information.