As the temperatures drop and snow starts to fall, taking proactive steps in your asphalt maintenance for winter plan can make all the difference between a smooth spring-start and costly pavement repair. With over five decades of experience in the Denver metro area, Coatings, Inc. knows that proper winter preparation not only preserves curb appeal—it protects the structural integrity of your asphalt surfaces.
Waiting until the damage is visible often means it’s too late for simple solutions. Addressing cracks, drainage issues, or soft spots before winter storms arrive gives you the best chance at preventing long-term deterioration. With the right seasonal maintenance, you can minimize safety hazards, reduce repair costs, and keep your surfaces performing through even the harshest weather.
Why Winter Demands Special Asphalt Care
In Colorado’s climate, pavement is under serious stress during winter. Moisture enters cracks and crevices, then freezes and expands, causing the surface and underlying base to shift, crack, or even collapse into potholes. Heavy snow plows and de-icing chemicals add further wear, while freeze-thaw cycles repeatedly burden untreated asphalt. Coatings, Inc. emphasizes that scheduled asphalt maintenance for winter is much more cost-effective than emergency repair after the damage is done.
Key Elements of Pre-Winter Asphalt Maintenance
Crack Sealing
One of the most effective preventative steps in your asphalt maintenance for winter strategy is sealing visible cracks before the first heavy snow. Coatings, Inc. advocates filling even minor fissures to stop moisture infiltration and protect the base from freeze cycles. Their process involves thoroughly cleaning cracks, applying high-performance sealant, and scheduling work under optimal weather conditions.
Infrared Repair
For more than just surface cracks—such as shallow potholes or sunken patches—the infrared repair method offers a fast and efficient solution. By softening and re-blending existing asphalt with new material, Coatings, Inc.’s infrared repair capability ensures a seamless patch and prepares the surface for the cold season ahead.
Seal Coating & Drainage Checks
Applying a protective seal coat adds another layer of defense—shielding asphalt from UV damage, water intrusion, and oil or gas spills. Additionally, ensuring proper drainage (that snowmelt or rain flows away from pavement edges and low spots) is vital. Standing water or runoff weakens the base and undermines your asphalt maintenance for winter.
Mid-Winter Maintenance Tips
Even after prepping for winter, your pavement still needs attention while it’s cold. Asphalt maintenance for winter isn’t a one-and-done effort—it requires ongoing care to protect surfaces through freezing temperatures and storms. Keep snow and ice cleared as soon as possible—delays mean repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which increase damage risk. Use de-icers judiciously: some salts accelerate asphalt wear. Consider alternatives like magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate where conditions allow. Check for drainage issues after storms and inspect your surfaces for fresh damage so you can stay ahead of problems.
What Your Asphalt Maintenance Plan Should Prioritize
When building an asphalt maintenance for winter strategy with Coatings, Inc., focus on these priorities:
- Booking crack sealing and any needed repairs while pavement is still dry and mild enough for application.
- Scheduling infrared repair for shallow damage before heavy snow compacts into it.
- Applying a seal coat and confirming drainage paths are clear before the season’s most challenging freeze-thaw cycles begin.
- Monitoring the surface throughout winter and planning follow-up maintenance in spring to catch any problem zones early.
This proactive approach ensures protection when conditions worsen—and saves both time and money by avoiding reactive fixes after damage has progressed.
Preparing for What Comes Next
By investing in comprehensive asphalt maintenance for winter now, you’ll reduce the chance of early spring disruption, lengthy repairs, or complete resurfacing. Coatings, Inc. brings trusted experience, high-quality materials, and proven methods to every job—from crack sealing to infrared repair to seal coating—so your pavement remains safe, functional, and attractive through the harshest season ahead.