Signs That It’s Time to Redo Your Asphalt After Winter
3 March 2025
Quebec winters put asphalt surfaces through extreme conditions. Between freezing and thawing cycles, snow, and deicing salts, your driveway or parking lot can suffer significant damage. As spring arrives, it’s essential to assess the condition of your asphalt to prevent long-term issues. Here are the key signs that indicate it’s time to redo your asphalt after winter.
- Large Cracks Appearing
Cracks are one of the first signs of asphalt wear. The freeze-thaw cycle allows water to seep into cracks, making them expand over time. Small cracks can often be sealed, but if they become deep or widespread, resurfacing is the best option to prevent water from reaching the asphalt foundation.
- Potholes Forming
Potholes are a common issue after winter. They develop when water seeps under the asphalt and freezes, causing the surface to expand and break apart. Potholes not only damage your driveway or parking lot but can also harm vehicles. If your asphalt has multiple holes or large depressions, resurfacing is necessary to maintain a safe and durable surface.
- Visible Sagging or Uneven Areas
A sagging asphalt surface often indicates a problem with the underlying base. Winter temperature fluctuations can cause the ground to shift, leading to depressions or ripples in the pavement. These irregularities interfere with proper water drainage and accelerate asphalt wear. If you notice areas where water pools after rainfall, it means your asphalt’s slope is no longer effective, and resurfacing should be considered.
- Fading Color and Rough Texture
Exposure to UV rays, chemicals, and harsh weather can cause asphalt to become dull and rough over time. If your surface is crumbling or losing its uniform black color, it’s a sign of advanced wear. A sealcoat may help in some cases, but if the damage is extensive, a full resurfacing will ensure a smooth, durable finish.
- Water Accumulation and Poor Drainage
Standing water on your asphalt indicates leveling or drainage issues. Pooling water accelerates surface deterioration and can lead to infiltration that weakens the structure. Proper drainage is essential to prolong the lifespan of your pavement. If water no longer drains effectively, it may be time to redo your asphalt with a well-adjusted slope.
Why Act Quickly?
Waiting too long to redo your asphalt can lead to more expensive repairs in the future. Well-maintained pavement not only enhances your property’s appearance but also ensures safety and durability.
Pavage Massie provides professional services to restore or replace your asphalt after winter. Contact us today for an evaluation and enjoy high-quality paving that withstands Quebec winters!
