Asphalt pavements stand up well to traffic. But, the chemicals used to bind it together are vulnerable to winter’s cold and wetness. When snow is on the ground, it can freeze quickly. This can cause hazardous black ice, leading to falls, skid-outs, and collisions. Winter doesn’t have to be a death sentence for asphalt pavement. With proper care, your parking lot can survive the harsh weather!
1. Sealcoat and Fill Cracks
It is essential to fill any cracks that have formed before they have the chance to expand and cause more damage. Cracks also allow water to seep into the foundation of your parking lot. This can cause further damage if not taken care of promptly. It is also important that you sealcoat your parking lot as soon as possible. The sealcoating will help prevent water from seeping into the cracks. It also prevents new cracks from forming.
2. Clear Pavement of Debris
Winter weather brings debris onto parking lots — everything from leaves to broken branches. It’s important to keep parking lots clear of debris. Therefore, water has somewhere to go rather than collecting on the asphalt surface. The best way to clear debris off a parking lot is with an asphalt broom. Asphalt brooms should be used at least once a week before storms come in or after storms have passed. This will help keep stormwater from building up on asphalt surfaces.
3. Repair Potholes
The most common problem with asphalt parking lots is potholes. When water gets into cracks and freezes, it causes cracks. These cracks ultimately form potholes that collect water during the winter. To repair any potholes, you need first to remove any loose material from the hole. You can use a shovel or broom. You should also use a wire brush to remove any dirt or debris. Ensure that you remove any loose material or debris from the pothole before repairing it. Failure to do so would call for an immediate repair. If you are unsure about DIY, you can hire a professional asphalt repair company.
4. Shovel Regularly
The biggest enemy of asphalt is snow and ice. When this freezes and thaws, it can lead to cracks in the pavement. A crack allows water to get into the pavement, which causes more damage when it freezes again. The best way to avoid this is by regularly shoveling after every snowstorm. Shoveling prevents snow and ice from building up. It will keep cracks from forming in your asphalt.
Ultimately, it’s vital to maintain your property correctly. That means investing in ideal equipment to prepare for these conditions. There are many different steps that you can take for a wide range of issues. But, one thing is certain: the job will be easier if these concerns are addressed proactively. Otherwise, you’ll just be treading water from one storm to another. Winter weather is a certainty; knowing how to deal with it beforehand can help you get ahead of the curve.