Your parking lot will require attention during the winter to protect the surface and ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians. Snow and ice can damage the asphalt in several ways, including expanding cracks. Fortunately, you can safeguard your parking lot from this harm with the following tips.

How to Protect Asphalt Parking Lots During the Winter

1. Repair Potholes

When potholes fill with ice, they can expand and cause the surrounding asphalt to crumble. This also presents a safety hazard to drivers who incidentally run over potholes or pedestrians who trip on them.

If you notice potholes, have professionals repair them before any major snowstorms if possible. This also applies to any cracks.

2. Remove Debris

Clearing the surface of debris and dirt enables you to get a closer look at the asphalt. This makes it easier to notice cracks or potholes that require immediate repair. Debris can also get hidden under the snow, potentially causing damage to cars and snowplows. 

3. Use Less Harsh Salts 

A standard de-icer should be used in moderation and applied before snow falls so that it operates as an anti-icer for better preventative measures. Although salt is important for keeping cars and pedestrians from sliding around in the parking lot, harsh chemicals may degrade the asphalt surface.

De-icing salt can also negatively impact the environment since the chemicals in the runoff can increase salinity in waterways and local drinking water. On the other hand, products with magnesium chloride may be less damaging to asphalt lots and the environment.

Maintain your parking lot this winter with help from Lyons & Hohl Paving in East Earl, PA. This team of skilled paving contractors resurfaces and repairs asphalt to ensure your pavement is in top condition year-round. Call (717) 355-9219 to schedule an estimate, or visit their website to learn more about their commercial paving services.