Why is the fall the best time for driveway maintenance?
As a homeowner, one of the smartest things you can do is to prep your driveway for the upcoming winter. Winter's onslaught of ice, snow, harsh road salt, and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your driveway. So why is the fall the best time for driveway maintenance? Because your driveway will pay the price if it’s not prepared! Let's take a look at a few fall maintenance tips.
Pressure Washing
Periodic pressure washing of the surface of your driveway will ensure it is free from dirt, debris, damaging chemicals, and petroleum products. The chemicals and debris can work their way into cracks in your driveway when water and snow are on the driveway surface, causing damage to the driveway base. Pressure washing your driveway is also great for curb appeal!
Seal cracks
The moderate temperatures of fall are a great time to fill in driveway cracks. During the cold winter months, pavement tends to contract and cracks will grow. During the hot summer months, the opposite occurs, and cracks will close. Fall is the best time to fill these cracks in. One of the worst things that can happen to your driveway is rain or snow infiltration in a crack. As that freezes and expands, the cracks will expand and potentially even break up sections of your driveway. Worst case scenario, you could be looking at irreparable damage to your driveway's foundation.
Sealcoat
Sealcoating acts as a barrier between your driveway and the elements. Sealcoating your driveway during the fall is an excellent way to prevent it from exposure to harsh winter conditions. Not only does fresh sealcoating add a layer of protection, but it also looks great!
Get on the schedule
Contractors are often booked solid with work. There is no time better than now to call and get on a paving contractor's schedule. They have the necessary equipment and materials to get the job done right from repairs to sealcoating. You're likely not the only homeowner in the area looking to have some driveway repair and maintenance work done before winter. Don't delay! Get those repairs completed before winter, or you may find yourself facing more significant and more costly repairs come spring!
If you follow these simple maintenance tips this fall, your driveway will thank you in the spring. Looking at some larger problems that are more involved than a quick fix? John Parichuk Paving, LLC is your go-to local paving contractor for repair work, annual maintenance, or a complete asphalt paving job. We have over 50 years of experience and have made it our priority to deliver outstanding sealcoating and paving services in the Hanover, Gettysburg, and York, PA, areas.