Winter damage to your parking lots and driveways!

Don’t Let Winter Leave Your Paving in the Cold

Winter’s a beautiful time of year, but it can wreak havoc on your parking lot or driveway. The constant freeze-thaw cycles, snow removal, and de-icing chemicals can all take their toll, leaving you with a cracked, uneven mess come spring.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of winter damage and how to prevent them:

Freeze-thaw cycles: Water is the enemy in this case. When water seeps into cracks and freezes, it expands, pushing the pavement apart and creating larger cracks or even potholes.

  • Prevention: Ensure proper drainage throughout your parking lot or driveway. This allows water to run off instead of pooling and seeping in. Sealcoating your asphalt every few years can also help keep moisture out.

Salt damage: Rock salt, the hero of icy sidewalks, can be a villain to your pavement. While it melts ice, it can also break down the asphalt or concrete, making it more susceptible to cracking.

  • Prevention: Use de-icing agents sparingly. Opt for calcium chloride or magnesium chloride whenever possible, as they’re less harsh on pavement.

Snow plow scrapes: Plow blades can scrape and gouge the surface, especially if the asphalt is already weak.

  • Prevention: Have your parking lot or driveway inspected and repaired before winter. Filling existing cracks will prevent them from turning into bigger problems.

Taking action:

Early detection is key! By identifying and addressing minor cracks and damage before winter a

rrives, you can save yourself a lot of money and hassle down the road (pun intended!).

For larger repairs, consider hiring a professional paving contractor. They have the expertise and equipment to properly fix the damage and ensure your parking lot or driveway weathers the winter storms for years to come.

Bonus tip: Removing snow promptly can also help minimize damage. Don’t wait for a complete

melt – get out there and shovel or plow after a snowfall to prevent water from

 seeping into cracks and freezing.

With a little planning and preparation, you can protect your parking lot or driveway from the harsh effects of winter and ensure a smooth, safe surface all year round.

Click here to get in touch today to find out how we can protect you for the future.