Winter weather in upstate New York can wreak havoc in some subtle ways; including lasting effects on your asphalt pavement. It is beneficial to have a good understanding of the impacts winter weather can have on your asphalt pavement.
Freezing Temperatures
Throughout the winter months asphalt pavement goes through a cycle of freezing and thawing which can lead to serious issues once spring rolls around. If your pavement has any cracks, the freezing and thawing process will stress the cracks and cause them to worsen throughout the season.
Furthermore, if there are cracks in your asphalt pavement, water will seep into them and then freeze once the temperature drops. As the water freezes, it expands and exerts pressure on the pavement. As the ice begins to thaw, it will flow through the cracked asphalt causing the base to sag.
Snowplows
While snowplows can quickly and efficiently remove snow from your driveway or parking lot, there is also the potential for them to cause damage to the asphalt. If the plow’s blade is set too low it can potentially scrape your pavement. In addition to this causing a blemish in your pavement, this also creates an opening for snow and water to enter and wreak havoc.
Chemicals
Much like snowplows, chemicals and deicers can remove snow and ice quickly, but can also harm your asphalt pavement. The harmful chemicals have the potential to deteriorate asphalt; especially if there is an existing blemish. As we’ve discussed previously, cracks and blemishes increase the potential for water to enter the asphalt and cause serious damage as it goes through the freezing and thawing process.
Maintaining the integrity of your asphalt pavement driveway or parking lot will decrease the chances of serious issues as the snow melts and spring arrives. Contact HMA Contracting Crop. today to ensure your asphalt pavement is in the best possible condition!