When winter weather hits, your parking lots, driveways, and paved walkways are left exposed to the elements. This can be tough on your asphalt. However, with the right asphalt repair supplies and some preparatory steps, you can minimize the impact of winter weather and keep your paved surfaces looking like new throughout the year. Below are three of the most common sources of asphalt damage in winter.

3 Ways Winter Leads to Asphalt Damage

1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Asphalt is a porous material, which means that moisture can get inside. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water inside asphalt expands as it transforms into ice. As it expands, it breaks apart the asphalt, creating cracks and potholes.

If your asphalt surface contains existing damage, the freeze-thaw process can have even more severe consequences. Therefore, it’s best to patch existing cracks and seal the entire surface before winter hits so that excess water can’t get under the surface. Additionally, make sure there’s proper drainage around your paved surfaces so water doesn’t collect on it.

2. Heavy Plows

When there’s a significant amount of snow and ice on the ground, a snowplow may clear the surface of your parking lot or driveway. The sharp blades can crack or pull up pieces of asphalt, especially if there’s already structural damage that makes the surface uneven. Seeking asphalt repair service before winter can help you prevent this issue. You should also make sure that your plow driver is experienced enough with the equipment to avoid damage.

3. Chemicals That Melt Ice

The chemicals included in many rock salt products used to melt ice can harm asphalt, especially if this asphalt has not been sealcoated or is already damaged. The chemicals can seep into the pores (along with melting water) and lead to larger cracks and potholes. Instead of a conventional deicer like rock salt (which is ineffective at lower temperatures), try using sand instead.

Paved surfaces that have been properly maintained and sealed through the year are at less risk, since it’s more difficult for these chemicals to penetrate them.

If you need any asphalt repair supplies to get your paved surfaces ready for winter, Rochester Jet-Blak Sealers, Inc. can help. Serving customers throughout the Greater Rochester, Syracuse, and Utica, NY, areas, the company has provided sealcoating, driveway sealer, crack filler, and asphalt repair supplies to customers throughout the area for more than 30 years. The locally owned and operated company simplifies the asphalt repair process by providing everything you need from one supplier. To discuss your needs with a team member, call (585) 436-5051. Visit them online to learn more about their services.