Prepare your paved surfaces for winter: tips to extend the life of your asphalt
3 October 2024
As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, the fall to-do list for homeowners and business owners alike grows longer. In addition to preparing your windows and maintaining your roof, it is crucial to add the preparation of your driveway, sidewalk, or parking lot to your seasonal checklist. Taking care of your asphalt before winter arrives can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs in the spring.
The paving experts at Pavage Massie, serving Gatineau and the Outaouais region, offer simple but effective tips to prepare your paved surfaces for the harsh Quebec winter.
- Rake leaves and plant debris
Falling leaves are inevitable in autumn, especially if you live in a wooded neighborhood. Regularly clearing leaves, twigs, and other debris not only prevents accumulation but also makes snow removal easier. Frozen debris can become slippery hazards, making your sidewalks more dangerous. Additionally, a cleared surface reduces the risk of frozen materials damaging your asphalt due to freezing and thawing. - Clean oil and accumulated dirt
Throughout the seasons, your driveway or parking lot accumulates oil, grease, and dirt from vehicles. These contaminants can accelerate asphalt deterioration. Use a pressure washer with a mild detergent to remove stains and clean the surface. For stubborn stains, try using a stiff-bristle brush with baking soda or laundry detergent. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. - Trim surrounding shrubs and bushes
Shrubs and bushes growing near your paved surface can retain moisture, promoting moss growth and causing cracks in the asphalt. Trim them in the fall to reduce these risks and make snow removal easier. Low-hanging frozen branches can also damage the surface when snow is being cleared. - Remove heavy objects
Heavy objects left on your asphalt during winter, such as trailers, propane tanks, or piles of materials, can cause indentations in the surface during freeze-thaw cycles. Store them elsewhere before the cold sets in to maintain a smooth surface and avoid costly repairs in the spring. - Maintain gutters and downspouts
Asphalt surfaces near buildings are often exposed to runoff from gutters. If they are clogged with leaves or debris, rainwater and melting snow could accumulate and form puddles that freeze and damage your asphalt. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear to prevent this problem. - Fill cracks before winter
One of the most crucial steps in asphalt maintenance is repairing cracks before the first freeze. The unrepaired cracks allow water to penetrate beneath the surface, which can cause blowouts during freezing. Apply an asphalt sealant available at hardware stores to fill cracks and prevent potholes from forming in the spring. - Stock up on eco-friendly doing products
In Gatineau and the Outaouais region, winters are harsh, and ice is inevitable. In addition to purchasing salt or gravel, consider more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as magnesium or calcium chloride-based products, which are less harmful to your surfaces and the environment. The best time to stock up is in the fall, before the first snowfall. - Invest in a plastic shovel and proper tools
Prepare yourself before the first snow falls. A plastic shovel is ideal for asphalt, as it reduces the risk of scratches and damage. If possible, clear snow quickly to allow the asphalt to absorb sunlight, making it easier for small snow and ice accumulations to melt naturally.
By following Pavage Massie’s advice, you will extend the life of your investment while minimizing repair costs. Don’t wait until winter is already here to act. Proper preparation in the fall will allow you to fully enjoy your paved surfaces once spring arrives.
