As winter approaches, commercial property managers and residential homeowners face the challenge of keeping their asphalt surfaces in top condition. Cold weather, moisture, and temperature fluctuations can take a toll on asphalt, leading to cracks, potholes, and premature deterioration. With proper winter maintenance, you can extend the life of your asphalt, prevent costly repairs, and keep your surfaces looking their best year-round. 

Here are essential winter maintenance tips to ensure asphalt longevity. 

1. Inspect and Repair Cracks Before Winter

Small cracks in asphalt may seem harmless, but during winter, they can quickly become a bigger problem. Water seeps into cracks, and when temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, widening the cracks or forming potholes. 

Solution: 

• Inspect your asphalt surfaces in early winter and address any cracks with professional crack filling or sealcoating. 

• Early repairs help prevent costly damage and extend the life of your asphalt. 

2. Keep Asphalt Surfaces Clean

Dirt, debris, and leaves can trap moisture on your asphalt, contributing to surface erosion and water pooling. Excess moisture combined with freezing temperatures increases the risk of surface damage. 

Action Steps: 

• Regularly sweep or blow away leaves, debris, and standing water. 

• Ensure drainage systems are clear to prevent water from pooling on the asphalt. 

For commercial properties, consider scheduling professional cleaning to ensure thorough debris removal. 

3. Address Drainage Issues

Standing water is a major threat to asphalt longevity, especially during winter. Poor drainage can lead to erosion, cracks, and structural damage over time. 

Tips for Proper Drainage: 

• Inspect your property for areas where water tends to pool. 

• Make sure gutters and downspouts are functioning properly and direct water away from paved surfaces. 

• For severe drainage issues, consult a professional paving contractor to identify and fix the root problem. 

4. Apply Sealcoating for Added Protection

Sealcoating is a proactive way to protect asphalt surfaces from winter damage. This thin layer of protective coating acts as a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and chemicals such as salt and de-icing agents, which can degrade asphalt over time. 

Why Sealcoating Matters: 

• Prevents water infiltration and damage. 

• Enhances the appearance of asphalt by providing a clean, dark finish. 

• Extends the lifespan of your asphalt by several years. 

Sealcoating is most effective when applied before winter hits, so schedule it during fall or early winter for the best results. 

 5. Avoid Heavy Loads on Weak Surfaces

Asphalt surfaces are more vulnerable during winter due to the freeze-thaw cycle. Parking heavy vehicles, equipment, or machinery on weak or damaged asphalt can worsen cracks or create depressions. 

Preventative Tip: 

• Identify problem areas on your asphalt and avoid parking heavy loads there until repairs are made. 

For commercial properties with high vehicle traffic, consider reinforcing these areas with repairs or resurfacing. 

 6. Remove Snow and Ice Carefully

While snow removal is essential for safety, improper techniques can damage asphalt. Sharp tools or metal shovels can scrape and chip the surface, leading to cracks or wear. 

Best Practices for Snow Removal: 

• Use plastic shovels or snowblowers instead of metal tools to protect the surface. 

• Apply de-icing products sparingly and choose asphalt-safe options to avoid chemical damage. 

Why Winter Maintenance Matters 

Winter weather can significantly impact asphalt surfaces if maintenance is ignored. Small cracks can turn into costly potholes, water damage can weaken the foundation, and untreated surfaces can deteriorate faster. By being proactive, you can save time and money while ensuring your asphalt remains safe, functional, and attractive for years to come. 

Contact Preferred Paving for Winter Asphalt Care 

Don’t let winter weather take a toll on your asphalt! At Preferred Paving, we specialize in comprehensive asphalt maintenance for both commercial and residential properties. From crack repairs and sealcoating to drainage solutions and resurfacing, our experienced team is here to protect your investment. 

Ready to prepare your asphalt for winter? Contact Preferred Paving today to schedule a consultation. Visit preferredpaving.com to learn more about our services.