Residents in the snowbelt, a name given to the Great Lakes region in North America, experience heavy snowfall season after season. In fact, it’s not uncommon to see 60–110 inches of lake-effect snow per year. Even if you live outside of this cold and blustery area, unexpected wintery conditions can still wreak havoc and cause delays for drivers.
As snow accumulates—sometimes up to several inches per hour—you need to react quickly.
| Shop Pavement Preservation Products | There are several ways to combat heavy snowfall, such as clearing roads and parking lots and maintaining asphalt pavement before the snow hits. But how can you protect asphalt from snow plow damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and abrasive salt? |
There are several ways to combat heavy snowfall, such as clearing roads and parking lots and maintaining asphalt pavement before the snow hits. But how can you protect asphalt from snow plow damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and abrasive salt?
Here are three ways you can maximize your pavement preservation budget and stretch your asphalt repair costs this winter.
1. Fill and Seal Cracks
First, inspect your pavement. If you discover cracks, seal them before the weather worsens. If cracks aren’t properly filled, major damage could ensue. As it freezes and thaws throughout the winter months, water causes cracks to widen and branch out. Water can also penetrate underneath damaged asphalt, which may cause further cracking and potholes.
Try this solution: KOLD-FLO® Pourable Crack Filler preserves and protects your asphalt. It’s ideal for filling and sealing cracks in roads, driveways, concrete foundations, parking lots, and other asphalt surfaces. Plus, it cures in approximately 30 minutes, so you can quickly re-open roads and parking lots.
2. Budget for Rejuvenation and Pavement Preservation
Minor damage from snow plows is often unavoidable. If the snow plow blade is not set high enough, your pavement could incur damage from scraping and dragging. Repeated scraping strips pavement sealer from the asphalt and often results in an unprotected surface that quickly deteriorates.
Try this solution: Once the snow and ice begin to melt, choose a sealant that restores the pavement back to a smooth surface. RAVEL CHECK® Rejuvenation & Preservation Liquid is an asphalt-based emulsion with penetrating chemistry and asphalt resins designed with LOCK THE ROCK® technology. It helps you rejuvenate, preserve, and restore asphalt pavements. Spray or pour RAVEL CHECK® liquid onto pavement damaged by weathering, oxidation, poor construction, and snow plows.
3. Invest in a Quality Snow Removal Solution
Finally, invest in a company that has experienced drivers. Keep in mind: Seasonal work can also come with inexperienced talent. Some snow plow drivers may require a significant portion of your snow removal budget—but in the end, if their poor driving damages your asphalt, you’ll also spend time and resources paying for major repairs.
Try this solution: Hire a reputable contractor or company to manage your snow removal. Assess your property and immediately address any damage or scraping caused by snowplow drivers. Lay out a track by setting and establishing markers so entranceways and curbs are visible to drivers.
Don’t let snow take you by surprise this winter season. Establish a pavement preservation and post-season plan for your asphalt driveways and parking lots. Frequent repairs and routine maintenance will save more dollars in the long run in comparison to a total pavement replacement.
Learn more about what causes potholes and road deterioration, or shop UNIQUE’s asphalt repair products online.