- 877.942.5613
- [email protected]
- We Never Close 24/7/365
- 877-942-5613
- [email protected]
Sealcoating: A Wise Winter Preparation Strategy
Winter is quickly approaching, and the harsh weather conditions can wreak havoc on your parking lot. Preparing your parking lot for winter is just as important as maintaining your building or landscaping. Neglecting your asphalt can lead to safety hazards, costly repairs, and a negative impression on visitors.
Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and the chemicals used to melt them can degrade asphalt surfaces, leading to cracks, potholes, and costly repairs. One effective way to safeguard your parking lot is through sealcoating—a process that protects the surface, extends its lifespan, and enhances its appearance. Sealcoating is a proactive, cost-effective way to protect your investment and maintain a safe, attractive parking lot throughout the season. Here are six reasons why having your surfaces protected with sealcoating by a professional paving company should be a priority before winter sets in.
01. Preventing Water Penetration
During winter, the freeze-thaw cycle can severely damage your parking lot. Water seeps into tiny cracks and crevices, and when temperatures drop, it freezes and expands. This expansion enlarges the cracks, which leads to further damage and potholes.
Sealcoating creates a protective barrier on the surface, preventing water from penetrating the asphalt. By keeping moisture out, you can significantly reduce the risk of cracks forming or worsening during the cold season.
02. Guards Against Chemical Damage
Winter weather often requires the use of de-icing chemicals and salt to keep parking lots safe for drivers and pedestrians. While effective for melting ice, these substances can corrode the asphalt surface, leading to premature deterioration.
Sealcoating acts as a shield, resisting the harsh effects of de-icing agents and protecting the asphalt from their corrosive properties. This not only keeps your parking lot in better shape but also reduces the frequency of maintenance and repairs.
03. Protects Against UV Damage
Even in winter, UV rays can weaken asphalt by breaking down the binding agents that hold it together. Over time, this leads to fading, cracking, and a brittle surface. While UV damage is more common in summer, it can still compound the wear and tear your parking lot endures during the colder months.
Sealcoating provides a layer of UV protection, keeping your asphalt resilient and preventing premature aging caused by sun exposure.
04. Improved Resistance to Wear and Tear
Parking lots experience significant stress from vehicles, foot traffic, and weather. During winter, the weight of snow plows and the abrasiveness of snow removal tools can further degrade the surface. Sealcoating creates a durable top layer that resists abrasions, reducing damage from winter maintenance activities.
By investing in sealcoating, you’re ensuring that your parking lot can withstand the increased wear and tear of the season.
05. Enhanced Aesthetics
A freshly sealcoated parking lot looks clean, professional, and well-maintained. The rich black surface enhances curb appeal, creating a positive impression for customers, employees, and visitors.
Beyond aesthetics, a smooth, well-sealed parking lot improves safety by making parking lines and directional markings more visible. This is especially important during winter, when snow and ice can obscure painted lines. Sealcoating helps protect these markings, ensuring they remain intact and legible.
PaveConnect Can Help You Put a Maintenance Plan Together for Your Parking Lot!
06. Saves Money in the Long Run
Sealcoating is a cost-effective preventive measure that extends the lifespan of your parking lot and reduces the need for expensive repairs. Fixing cracks, potholes, or full asphalt resurfacing can be costly and time-consuming, especially during winter when repairs are more challenging to perform.
By applying a sealcoat before winter arrives, you’re making a smart investment that protects your parking lot and your budget.
When to Sealcoat Your Parking Lot
Timing is crucial when it comes to sealcoating. Ideally, the process should be completed before winter weather arrives, as sealcoating requires temperatures above 50°F to cure properly. Fall is an ideal time to schedule sealcoating, giving the asphalt enough time to set and harden before temperatures drop.
If you’ve already noticed cracks or damage, consider addressing these issues with crack filling or patching before applying the sealcoat. This ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish that provides maximum protection.
Wrapping Up…
Preparing your parking lot for winter is as essential. By prioritizing sealcoating now, you’ll safeguard your parking lot against winter’s worst while enhancing its functionality and appearance. Don’t wait until the snow starts to fall—act now to shield your asphalt from winter’s challenges. Contact the trusted experts at PaveConnect to schedule your sealcoating service and to get your parking lot winter-ready!
Looking for a National asphalt paving contractor for your next project?
© 2019 All rights Reserved.