Your driveway is an integral part of your home or business and deserves as much care as the rest of the home or office. Realistically, you will want to maintain your asphalt driveway throughout the year, but, there are steps to take throughout the winter months to help prevent damage.
5 Easy Tips to Protect Your Asphalt Drive
1. Chemical deicing agents such as rock salt may eliminate snow and salt with ease, but, they also contain corrosive materials. These chemical agents can lead to serious damage for your asphalt. Instead, opt for a solution such as sand or cat litter. These will help remove snow and ice as well as giving added traction.
2. Toss out your metal shovel and use a rubber-bladed shovel. Metal shovels, especially those with pointed or sharp blades can leave marks in the asphalt which could lead to a serious issue.
3. If your driveway is plowed throughout the season it is essential that the blade height is set properly. A plow blade that is too low will cause scrapes and dings to the asphalt. Much like the metal shovel blades, this will lead to a more serious issue.
4. Proper drainage is also vitally important. Having proper drainage in place allows for runoff to help eliminate standing water. Even driveways that appear flat have a slight grade that allows for drainage.
5. Another important form of drainage is actually your gutters. Keep the spouts pointed away from your driveway. If left pointed towards your driveway, melting snow and ice can begin flowing onto the asphalt. Not only can this cause damage to your asphalt, but, it can also pose as a safety hazard.
Additionally, maintaining your driveway throughout the year can help prevent damage from winter elements. Issues such as cracks should be repaired prior to the winter season in order to prevent further damage. While there are steps you are able to take to prevent damage to your asphalt during the winter, many services need to be handled by the professionals of HMA Contracting Corp. Contact us today so that we may help you protect and maintain your asphalt driveway!