When you spend the time, money, and effort to hire a commercial paving company that makes your asphalt feel brand new, the last thing you want is for the elements to destroy the job. And if you’re in New England, you probably already know some of the risks that the winter months present. With snow, ice, and chilly temperatures on the horizon, you’ll want to ensure that your asphalt is set up to weather this winter without any structural damage that could cost you big in the long run.
What to Know About Protecting Asphalt for the Winter
What Happens to Asphalt During the Winter?
Several phenomena take place during winter months, the chief being the freeze-thaw cycle. When snowmelt or rainwater makes its way into small cracks in the pavement – particularly in sloped pavement areas – then freezes, the cracked pavement expands. Not only can this deepen and widen the existing cracks, but it can begin to deteriorate the entire structure of the pavement.
But the risks don’t stop there. When that moisture begins to melt during warmer spring months, the water can move deeper into the asphalt, causing further damage to the underlying layers of the pavement. “Frost heave” is when the surface of the asphalt itself begins to buckle, shift, and lift upwards due to high moisture content. This results in an uneven surface across the asphalt – which could prove treacherous for car tires and foot traffic alike. This is the type of cycle that creates bumps and potholes.
Finally, you’ll want to consider the damage that winter snow and ice management can have on your asphalt. Shoveling can cause dents and scratches in your asphalt. Heavy snow plows day after day can lead to cracks. And rock salt distributed over your sidewalks or parking lots can contribute to pitting and corrosion.
What Should I Do to Prevent Damage to My Asphalt?
The number one thing you’ll want to do in order to best protect your asphalt this winter is to take care of any existing issues before the cold weather comes. This means hiring an asphalt paving company to come in and assess any damage, make repairs, and finish with a high-quality sealcoat. Once cracks and potholes are filled in, you’ll have a better chance of making it through winter with minimal to no damage. However, keep in mind that sealcoating requires a nightly temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit or more – so depending on where you’re located, there’s a short window of time to get this service completed.
Then, ensure you’re taking great care of your asphalt this winter as the elements roll in. Shovel your sidewalks and other pavement regularly, and hire a snow and ice management service to help with the bigger tasks like commercial de-icing or snow plowing. Ensure the company has adequate snow removal equipment so you won’t be left fending for yourself when the winter storms roll in. And make sure the professionals you choose are insured for snow and ice liability.
Talk to Cassidy Paving About Preparing Your Asphalt for Winter
Cassidy Paving offers asphalt paving services and a variety of repair services to commercial, industrial, and governmental clients throughout New England. We’re experts at assessing any existing damage, repairing it, and then taking measures to prevent further damage.
We deploy a strong team of dedicated professionals with decades of experience in asphalt paving and repair – and best of all, we know New England winters inside and out. Contact us today to discuss your concerns and find out how Cassidy Paving can help you maintain your asphalt so you don’t lose all the benefits of your asphalt paving projects this winter.