Common Types of Winter Asphalt Damage

Cracks

Cracks can be linked to environmental conditions, lack of regular maintenance, and heavy traffic flow. Temperature fluctuations during the common freeze-thaw cycles during the winter season can cause alligator cracks, linear cracks, and block cracks. Moisture settling into the asphalt and water infiltration can further expand and contract the pavement, weakening the structure of the asphalt components.

Potholes

Potholes develop over time due to water infiltration and frequent freeze-thaw cycles. As moisture seeps into the cracks and crevices of the asphalt, the internal structure of the asphalt diminishes, weakening the paved surface and the subbase. Regular usage by heavy-weighted vehicles and allowing snow to pile up can also lead to potholes.

Surface Depressions

Depressions and dips in the paved surface can indicate water pooling and an uneven subbase. It can also be a tell-tale sign of improper compaction during installation. These imperfections are noticeable after a rainfall or after snow is removed. Without immediate attention, these small depressions can develop into potholes and sinkholes.

Erosion of Pavement Edges

Throughout the winter season, snow is often plowed from the surface of the asphalt and moved to piles along the edges of the parking lot. This and water runoff can cause the asphalt edges to erode. Crumbling of the asphalt is a clear sign of significant damage to the paved edging.e foundation.

Steps for a Thorough Post-Winter Asphalt Inspection

Visual Surface Inspection

During an asphalt inspection, cracks, potholes, and other surface irregularities should be noted. Regularly scheduling assessments of the surfaces and edges and walking the entire area of your property will help you uncover abnormalities that can pose a safety risk and lead to asphalt destruction.

Structural Assessment

Cracking, depressions, or sinkholes may indicate that the subbase has issues, which can shorten the lifespan of the pavement and lead to treacherous conditions. A decent-looking asphalt surface can be deceiving—you can’t always see what’s developing underneath. Having a professional paving company perform an inspection and assessment can prevent further damage. 

Drainage Check

Check your property for water runoff and signs of moisture to avoid further damage to the asphalt since any pooling of water across the property could be a sign that your property isn’t draining properly. Standing water can infiltrate the surface, damaging the components of the asphalt, subbase, and edging of the paved surface.

Pavement Marking Inspection

Inspecting the line markings is an important task as these markings are used to improve the safety of the parking lot. Faded, discoloured, or missing lines can lead to risky conditions for users because markings help direct traffic flow and offer safe pedestrian crossings. 

Quick and Effective Asphalt Repair Solutions

Crack Sealing

The top benefit of sealing minor cracks is to prevent water infiltration. This method of repair extends the lifespan of the asphalt. Using high-quality sealants can reduce repair costs as it helps to prevent cracks from developing into potholes. Crack sealing also lowers the risks of personal injuries and other hazards.

Pothole Repair

Asphalt pothole repair solutions are available year-round with specific fixes dependent on the weather conditions. Cold mix asphalt repair is a temporary solution during cold weather. The damaged portion of the asphalt is filled and covered with cold patching until the arrival of warmer weather. A permanent and more effective solution is to use a hot mix asphalt solution.

Resurfacing and Overlays

Resurfacing can extend your asphalt’s lifespan and restore smoothness to an otherwise damaged surface. Performing a thorough inspection of your parking lot can uncover existing cracks, as well as those that are just developing. It is important to address these issues before an overlay or resurfacing project can be completed.

Edge Repair

Damaged edges require restoration to prevent the existing cracks from widening. Asphalt crumbling creates an unprofessional look for the property in addition to creating hazardous risks for the public at large. Asphalt gutters or curbs can offer protective features.

Preventative Measures to Minimize Future Winter Damage

Sealcoating

Applying a top-quality sealcoat product is a preventive measure against water, salt, and UV damage. Sealcoating the asphalt surface once every two to three years prevents water infiltration as the components bind to the pavement. 

Regular Maintenance

A properly maintained commercial property requires regular maintenance year-round. Pre-winter and post-winter maintenance help to catch early signs of wear such as cracking, ravelling, and indentations. Once the cold weather sets in, there is limited maintenance and repairs that can be done until warmer weather allows for a more permanent repair.

Proper Drainage Systems

Pre-season preparation involves ensuring drainage systems redirect water effectively away from the asphalt surface. Melting snow and frequent rainstorms can damage the integrity of the asphalt. Installing drainage systems at specific locations can direct water runoff away from the surface.

Why Choose Sure-Seal Pavement for Asphalt Repairs

With our 30+ years of experience, Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. has become a leading asphalt paving repair contractor in the GTA. Our team is composed of local contractors across central and southern Ontario, so we understand the effects Canadian winters can have on asphalt. We specialize in paving, repair, and maintenance for commercial, industrial, retail, corporate, and municipal properties.

We offer a no-obligation free property assessment, followed by a written repair proposal within 48 hours. We are committed to excellence and provide cost-effective pavement management plans.

Restore Your Asphalt with Sure-Seal Pavement – Contact Us Today!

Don’t wait for an accident to happen! Rely on the experts at Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. to address your asphalt repair needs now. Our affordable repair and maintenance services are backed by our knowledge, experience, and guarantees. Contact us today to book a free onsite consultation and schedule your essential asphalt repairs!