We’ve Previously discussed how to protect your driveway during the summer. Now that winter is approaching, it’s time to consider ways of preparing your driveway for the cold elements.
Winter brings all kinds of changes to our everyday lives, and even if we do not realize, there are many preparations to be made as we get closer to the snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. One of those preparations concerns your driveway. As something that sees a lot of activity all throughout the year, your driveway needs to be taken care of properly; it’s tough no doubt, but with winter comes a big change in the elements, and being exposed to those elements can be tough on your driveway. Here are a few quick tips on how to properly prepare your driveway for the coming winter season.
Check for and seal any cracks
You’ll definitely want to do this before the snow starts to fall. If you do not properly seal cracks and leave them untouched and exposed throughout the winter months, they are only going to get worse. When snow and ice thaw, they create water runoff that leaks through any cracks. If the temperatures get cold again, that water runoff freezes and expands, making the cracks even bigger. If you don’t take care of your driveway’s cracks before winter hits in full force, you can expect to see those cracks again in the springtime, only they’ll be significantly bigger.
Use the right ice melt
If you plan to use an ice melt on your driveway this winter, make sure to use the right kind. Ice melts that are calcium-based are going to be the best choice, seeing as they do little to no damage to your driveway. Other types of ice melts contain a substantial amount of chemicals that can cause damage.
Keep it clean and clear
Keep your driveway as clean and tidy as possible leading up to winter. You’re going to want to make sure to clear any debris, dirt, stones, leaves, and twigs as consistently as possible before the first snowfall. If left in your driveway, these things can do permanent damage once they have the weight of snow and ice pressing down on them. Oil and grit can also cause some deterioration to your driveway if left to be mixed with the snow and ice. Power washing your driveway before winter hits is a great way to make sure there won’t be any problems.
Use the proper tools
Whether you plan on using shovels, a snow blower or both to clear snow from your driveway, it’s a good idea to make sure they are in proper working condition and not damaged. Chipped shovels can scratch your driveway and even remove small chucks of asphalt if they get caught in a crack (another reason to get those cracks sealed!), and poorly functioning snow blowers can underperform and make it more difficult to remove large amounts of snow. Make sure you are well-equipped to deal with what’s coming by having an arsenal of properly functioning snow removal tools ready to go.
Follow these tips and you’re sure to see significantly less damage to your driveway and have it looking great once the snow and ice melt in the springtime. Winter is almost here, so start those preparations now!
If your driveway has been through many winters and is need of repair or replacement, check out our asphalt driveway paving services.