Does Your Asphalt Require Special Maintenance In The Winter?
Asphalt driveways are everywhere, but many are in various states of disrepair. Sadly, it's all too common to see an otherwise impeccable home with a faded, cracked, or even pothole-ridden driveway. Maintaining asphalt does not require a herculean effort, but it does take some knowledge and a commitment to take the steps necessary to keep the driveway looking as good as new.
While proper maintenance is essential all year round, it's especially crucial during the winter. Follow these three simple tips to ensure that you aren't leaving your driveway out in the cold.
1. Keep It Clear
Water is your driveway's greatest enemy. Water that sits on asphalt for too long can seep into the surface, where it may later freeze and cause significant amounts of damage. Moisture can also sometimes infiltrate your driveway from nearby areas, soaking into the ground and ultimately entering the sub-layers from the sides.
While rain alone is rarely a threat to well-maintained asphalt, large amounts of meltwater are an entirely separate issue. When snow melts on your driveway, it will pool on the surface and may find its way into cracks or potholes. The best way to avoid this situation is straightforward: keep your driveway clear of snow whenever possible.
2. Sealcoat As Early As Possible
While you can sealcoat your driveway in the winter, it's not the ideal time to do it. The cold temperatures can slow the curing time, and the unpredictable weather can make it challenging to schedule an appointment. On the other hand, the relatively low humidity combined with moderately warm weather can make fall an excellent time to perform this service.
Sealcoating before winter is usually a smart move. Aside from the aesthetic benefits, the primary winter advantage to sealcoating is that it helps to repel water. A fresh coat of sealer is the best way to prevent any errant meltwater from causing damage to your driveway.
3. Don't Ignore Problems
Any damage to your driveway increases the chance of water infiltration and future problems like frost heaving. Sealcoating can prevent water from entering through the asphalt surface itself, but cracks and potholes provide a more acute avenue of attack. If you know your driveway surface is less than perfect, then the most cost-effective option is to fix the damage before it leads to far worse problems.
Most importantly, don't ignore these issues just because they appear in the winter. It can be tempting to leave repairs for warmer weather, but dealing with them as you notice them is a crucial part of winter maintenance. By staying on top of necessary care, you can help your driveway to remain beautiful and functional through many future winters. Contact a company that offers asphalt maintenance services to learn more.