Winter Maintenance Tips

The majority of asphalt sealant wear comes in the winter cycle

Remove snow with as little force as possible.  Shovels are better than snow blowers and snow blowers are better than plows

• Plowing will scratch your sealant. If you plow your asphalt, try to keep the blade off of the surface. If you use a plow service, ask them to take it easy.

• The dark black sealant color will absorb heat from the sun and help to melt off snow and ice.

• Chains on the tires of snow blowers, snowmobiles or other motorized vehicles will leave small scratches on the asphalt surface. Try to use your snow blower without chains if possible.

• Low areas that hold ice for an extended period of time will show early wear. Try to remove the ice from these areas if possible.

• Moderate use of salt or other ice and snow melt products should not damage the sealant. Harsher chemicals may cause problems.

• Crackfiller may split in cold temperatures. This is mostly dependent on the size of the crack and the amount of movement to the asphalt surface during freeze/thaw cycles.

• Hot asphalt repairs may heave in the winter but settle back to level in the Spring. Few things can stop the force of frost heave.

• The cut lines of hot asphalt repairs may open in the winter and shrink back in the Spring, but not completely. The solution is to install hot rubber crack repair the next time you sealcoat.