Clean it Up – Clean any debris, oil, car fluids, dirt, leaves or other mess from the pavement. If possible, have it power washed before temperatures become too cold for a more effective clean-down.

Protect Edges – Make sure to edge your pavement to protect it from grass and other plants. Their roots can break through the pavement’s edges, making it easier for water to penetrate and cause larger cracks.

Fill Cracks – Inspect pavement for cracks, chips and crumbling. Even little cracks can mean large problems later on. Water can get into cracks and freeze during the colder evenings and mornings and expand, enlarging the crack. Have cracks filled and addressed before the winter chill hits.

Look for Pooling Water – Pooling water on your pavement usually means it is uneven, suggesting potential problems with your sublayers. During freezing temperatures, pooling water can contribute to the creation of potholes. It can also freeze over and present a slip and fall hazard.

Move Heavy Equipment – If you have heavy equipment on your pavement, you’ll want to move it for the season or at least place heavy duty cardboard underneath it. This will keep it from compressing or puncturing the pavement during the vulnerable cold months.

Have it Sealcoated – Sealcoating is usually done one year after the pavement is installed and then every two to three years after that. Sealcoating protects the pavement from harsh weather and cold temperatures. It also adds water resistance and protects the base layers underneath.

Fall is here and that means winter is not far behind. Even mild winters can still have negative impacts on your pavement. Perform this fall maintenance to protect your pavement and you’ll keep it in good condition for longer.

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1. Check for signs of ground settlement – If your asphalt is settling and becoming uneven or showing cracks, this could mean the ground or foundation under your asphalt needs repairs or replacement. If left alone, asphalt settlement can cause severely uneven surfaces and major cracks. This can also lead to water intrusion and more serious problems later on. If you notice settlement, you’ll want to plan to address it come springtime, knowing that the winter temps and cold rains could make it worse.

2. Check for potholes and cracks – If you have potholes or cracks, it’s important to have those repaired as soon as possible. Winter chill and cold rains can cause cold water seep under your asphalt through potholes and cracks. Water under your pavement layer is not a good thing as it can cause your asphalt to deteriorate and break down. Repair potholes and seal cracks before the coldest and wettest part of winter hits to protect your pavement layer.

3. Check the thickness of your asphalt layer – The thickness of your asphalt layer can be an indicator of how well your asphalt will hold up to the cooler temperatures and chilly rains. If your asphalt layer is two to three inches thick, you should be okay as long as you repair cracks and potholes and aren’t experiencing ground settlement. Ideally, an asphalt layer of five inches or more is best to stand up to the wet and cold winter conditions. Even if your pavement layer is on the thicker side, it’s important to protect it. Consider sealcoating your pavement to help seal small cracks and help protect against water damage.

While our southeastern winters are milder than other regions, that doesn’t mean you can let your guard down when preparing your asphalt for winter. It’s important to check for ground settlement, potholes and cracks and the thickness of your asphalt layer. A layer of Pitch Black sealcoating can also help protect your asphalt from the elements while being safe for the environment.

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