North Carolina Property Owners’ Guide to Preparing Pavement for Winter
October 20, 2025
Why Now Is the Time to Make the Switch to Pitch Black
November 16, 2025
The season might be slowing down, but the work isn’t finished. The off-season gives contractors a chance to take care of the tools, materials and planning that keep jobs running strong when spring returns. This is the best time to take a close look at your equipment and setup. With the right plan, you can protect your gear, save money and prepare for a stronger start next year. Solid preparation begins with smart off-season sealcoating maintenance.
Protect Your Equipment Now
Your equipment works hard during peak season, so it needs the right care during the winter months. Start by draining and flushing your tanks, lines and pumps. Leftover sealer can harden and cause problems when you fire up your system in the spring. Clean your spray tips and hoses so nothing dries inside them. Check every belt, gasket and filter, then replace anything that looks worn. These small steps help prevent downtime and expensive fixes later. Store your machines in a dry place with proper ventilation. Cold weather can be tough on engines and frames, so keeping them inside protects your investment and helps everything last longer.
Store Materials the Right Way
Materials like Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion should never freeze. Cold temperatures break down the formula and ruin product quality. Keep your remaining supply in a heated space or use proper insulation so it stays above freezing. Always seal containers tight to block out moisture and debris. If you use supporting products like Nuvo Crack Fill or striping paint, follow the same approach. Good storage habits protect your inventory and help you avoid waste when next season hits. Taking time now to set up the right storage spot gives you steady quality when you return to work in warmer weather.
Plan Ahead for Next Season
Off-season planning helps you build a smoother workflow for the year ahead. Look at the projects you finished over the past few months and identify what went well and what could improve. Use that insight to adjust your process. Many contractors also use this time to upgrade to better products. Pitch Black gives crews a deeper black finish, stronger adhesion and longer durability. It also meets every regulation in states like Maryland and Virginia, so you never need to worry about compliance. Adding it to your plan now sets you up for stronger results and happier clients next season.
Stay Ready With Off-Season Sealcoating Maintenance
Strong off-season habits keep your operation sharp and ready. Clean equipment, protected materials and smart planning give you a stronger start when the weather warms. This is also a great time to plan your spring bulk order of Pitch Black and get your supplies in order. When you take care of the essentials now, you step into spring with confidence. Pre-order Pitch Black today or contact EcoShield Asphalt Products to get everything you need for next season.
FAQs
1. What equipment should contractors clean during the off-season?
Contractors should clean tanks, hoses and spray tips so no leftover sealer dries inside the system. Clearing debris and checking for worn parts helps prevent breakdowns once work begins again.
2. How should sealcoat materials be stored during winter?
Materials need to stay above freezing. Keep them in a heated or insulated space and seal containers tight to keep out moisture. This protects product quality for the next season.
3. Why do contractors plan ahead during the off-season?
Planning ahead helps contractors review the past year, upgrade to stronger products like Pitch Black and organize equipment so they start spring with a smoother workflow and better results.