As Murfreesboro gets ready to emerge from a relatively mild winter, the asphalt patching experts at Hargrove Sealcoating say that there is still time to protect your driveway (or parking lot) from further damage. March weather, while usually cool to warm, can still hide a few overnight freezes. This can cause damage to your asphalt surfaces. We recently spoke with Hargrove Sealcoating, and they shared some advice on what you can do to protect an asphalt driveway during the final few weeks of winter weather.
- Clear debris.
If you don’t want to have to pay for unnecessary asphalt patching or repairs, one of the most important things you can do is to clear your driveway or parking area from leaves and other debris. If possible, sweep up loose materials and have the surface professionally cleaned before the next round of bad weather. If possible, spend the next warm afternoon cleaning your driveway, which can help avoid large clumps of debris from turning into icy obstacles.
- Fill in the cracks.
Right now, we are holding onto mild weather, and most days are over 50°. This is ideal for asphalt patching because warmer weather allows the materials to cure correctly.
- Sealcoat your asphalt surfaces.
Sealcoating is one of the most important things you can do to keep your driveway looking – and riding – like new. Sealcoating utilizes a liquid mixture that can give new life to a dull, gray driveway or parking lot. To decide if it is time for sealcoating, ask yourself how long it has been since your surface has been renewed. If it has been more than two years, it is time. Keep in mind, however, that if you have large cracks that are wider than ⅛ of an inch, you may require asphalt patching. In Murfreesboro, Hargrove Sealcoating can provide infrared asphalt patching for a permanent repair.
- Get rid of water pools.
Pooling water is a strong indicator that you will soon be dealing with a giant pothole. After heavy rains, take a quick walk around your driveway or parking lot. You can use a squeegee to remove large areas of standing water. Do take note, however, of where water does not drain, because you may need to ask about asphalt patching in the next few months.
- Don’t pour salt on your driveway.
Conventional wisdom says to pour salt on icy areas. And this is a great piece of advice for your walkways and for areas with lots of foot traffic. However, be cautious and sparse in your use. While adding salt to your driveway or parking lot will not lead to the need for asphalt patching, the runoff can directly – and negatively – affect the grass and plants around your area. If you need to add traction to more than just a few feet, consider pouring a layer of sand where you walk.
- Repair potholes.
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to keep your driveway in its best shape is to repair the damage immediately. Potholes and cracking asphalt can especially benefit from asphalt patching. If you live in Murfreesboro, Nashville, or Franklin, Tennessee, Hargrove Sealcoating offers different options based on your needs and budget.
A driveway can easily cost $5000 or more to replace. By taking care of it, you may be able to get away with sealcoating and the occasional asphalt patching.