Fall is the perfect time of year to inspect your driveway and prepare it for the harsh temperatures and weather conditions that the coming months will bring. Let’s look at some of the best ways to PREpare and REpair your driveway before Winter comes.
Check for Cracks
Driveway cracks are most susceptible to further damage in the winter months. Water from melted snow and ice easily penetrates and seeps into these cracks, and low outside temperatures cause this water to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, so the cracks in your driveway slowly expand with the ice. Repairing these cracks before the snow and ice comes is one of the best preventative measures you can take to ensure your driveway will maintain its strength and appearance all through the winter.
Inspect Drainage
Unfortunately, melting snow and ice create more problems than just cracks. If your driveway is not graded properly or has depressions, water can pool in these areas and refreeze. This leads to an unsafe surface and can negatively influence your vehicle’s traction control, potentially causing accidents. It also makes your driveway unsafe for you and your family to walk on, as this ice tends to blend into the driveway and be difficult to see. Filling depressions and cavities before winter will put you at much less of a risk.
Keep Your Driveway Clear
There are plenty of ways to keep ice and snow from piling up on your driveway, from store bought ice melting products to snow blowers and shovels. Knowing how to properly utilize these items is important, as they can harm your driveway if you’re not careful. Use ice melting products that are calcium-based and avoid those with excessive amounts of chemicals. The latter products may boast a stronger melting power but can also cause premature fading of your pavement. Inspect snow blowers and shovels for chips or other wear and tear to lower the possibility of scratching your driveway up when clearing snow and ice.
Looking for a professional and reliable Maryland driveway repair company? Call 1-855-GOT-PAVING! We are family owned and operated and have been happily providing first-rate paving services to the entire state of Maryland for over 25 years. Contact us today to schedule a repair, or to learn more about what you need to keep your driveway in great condition all winter long.
