Asphalt Maintenance to Complete Before Winter

Since the weather is warmer here in Stockton, there's plenty of time before winter strikes full force to prepare your asphalt for potential snow, ice, and de-icer. So, when spring arrives, the last thing you want is an unforeseen asphalt repair bill. Fortunately, there are measures you can take now before the winter months to help mitigate that threat.

Asphalt prep for winter can start as early as late summer and early fall. Now is a great time to examine your asphalt pavement for cracks or damage that are more manageable to repair while the weather is still parched and mild. Then, if any snowstorms hit, our experts on sealcoating in Stockton, CA, suggest observing a few best practices throughout the winter to help discourage the elements from infiltrating your asphalt.

Don't overlook the small things

As you inspect asphalt, look for deterioration like cracks or small divots. They might seem harmless, but they're like an open cut: Harsh components can get into these locations and cause serious problems. Even normal use can shift minor damage into a significant headache. Not fixing this damage can also impact your asphalt's substrate, and precipitation can deteriorate substrate, leading to circumstances we call "alligator cracking." Left for long enough, this deterioration could turn into asphalt replacement instead of a simple repair. Fix these cracks ASAP!

Don't forget sealant

Even if your pavement doesn't need prompt repairs, it's a bright idea to plan an appointment to have it sealed. Accomplishing this during the dry season will reduce maintenance all winter long and increase the asphalt's longevity. Sealant should be applied once every two to three years to rejuvenate your pavement and reactivate the coating of security against harsh weather. Also, using sealant has the advantage of fortifying asphalt.

Move out debris & moisture

Part of your routine maintenance plan should be clearing debris like leaves, earth, and standing water year-round, especially during the winter months. Anything littering your asphalt if snow falls or the ground freezes will adhere and damage the surface, causing unnecessary deterioration. Standing water can also be formidable when it freezes, so push it off and away from the pavement. If left unaddressed, these problems can result in a dreaded pothole.

Understand how to de-ice asphalt

Going for the rock salt when your asphalt gets slick is effortless, but you might be making a significant maintenance error. Rock salt can do more damage than good; it's corrosive and can hurt your asphalt from the outside in. Potassium chloride is a more suitable option — get in contact with our team to find out which labels to use and learn which de-icing methods are best for your pavement.

Watch for potholes

Potholes are minor cracks in your pavement that expand into much more costly, widespread deterioration. Even if you're preserving the surface during the winter, everyday wear and tear can donate to damage flaring and become a significant restoration. In addition, potholes are detrimental to vehicles and can also present a disadvantage for business owners with pedestrian foot traffic on their asphalt surfaces.

This is some of the asphalt maintenance you should complete before winter rolls around. Contact us today for sealcoating in Stockton, CA. We are here for you.