Winter presents some of the harshest weather conditions of the year, from snow and sleet to freezing temperatures and strong winds. These conditions can damage various surfaces around the home, including asphalt paving. Here’s a closer look at how winter weather affects pavement, and how maintenance can stave off the consequences.

How Does Winter Weather Affect Asphalt?

In low temperatures, asphalt contracts. When the sun comes out and warms up the pavement, it expands again. This repeated expansion and contraction can ultimately lead to cracks.

As the snow covers the driveway or parking lot, the moisture will seep into these rifts. The melted snow will freeze and thaw, causing the material to expand and contract. The moisture that sneaks underneath the surface of the pavement will erode the sub-layers of aggregate, which support the top layer. This will eventually leave large patches of pavement unsupported, so they cave in and form potholes.

Another source of damage for asphalt is snow removal. As you shovel your driveway with a metal spade, or as the sharp edges of a snowplow graze the parking lot, the asphalt can suffer scrapes. Not only will this leave marks on your asphalt surface, but it could also scrape away the protective sealant, leaving even more risk of moisture damage.

What Maintenance Measures Can Prevent These Issues?

The best way to prevent asphalt from weather-related damage is to apply a sealcoating. This jet black, paint-like substance will form a protective barrier on top of the pavement, so that rain, snow, and general humidity can’t be absorbed by the porous asphalt. 

It’s also important to check the asphalt paving for cracks regularly. If you notice any, have them filled before the snow starts to fall. That way, the freezing water won’t widen the cracks and spur the formation of potholes. While snow removal is important, make sure to inspect your tools for snags or jagged edges that could further damage the asphalt.

To have your asphalt surface patched up before the winter weather arrives, get in touch with A-1 Services Wisconsin Rapids. Since 1996, this Wisconsin team has been performing a range of asphalt paving services, including crack filling and sealcoating. If your parking lot has been weathered by snow plowing, they can also refresh the striping for a safe and spotless commercial property. To learn more about their work, visit them online or call (715) 423-6444 to request a complimentary quote.