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Routine Asphalt Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Pavement in Top Shape

Feb 28

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your asphalt surface in excellent condition and extend its lifespan. A well-maintained asphalt driveway, parking lot, or road not only looks better but also performs better, saving you money on costly repairs and replacements. This routine asphalt maintenance checklist provides a step-by-step guide to help you protect your investment and ensure your pavement stays smooth, safe, and durable for years to come.

Check out the best asphalt maintenance tips to keep your pavement in great shape.

1. Inspect the Surface Regularly

Frequent inspections are the first step in identifying potential issues before they become major problems.

  • Frequency: Inspect your asphalt surface at least twice a year (spring and fall) and after severe weather events.
  • What to Look For:
    • Cracks (small or large)
    • Potholes
    • Uneven surfaces or depressions
    • Pooling water
    • Faded or worn areas
    • Oil stains or spills

2. Clean the Surface

Keeping your asphalt clean prevents dirt, debris, and stains from causing damage over time.

  • Sweep Regularly: Remove leaves, dirt, and debris to prevent moisture buildup and surface deterioration.
  • Remove Stains: Clean oil, grease, and chemical spills immediately using a degreaser or a mixture of dish soap and water.
  • Pressure Wash: Use a pressure washer for deep cleaning, especially in high-traffic areas. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent surface damage.

3. Fill Cracks

Cracks are inevitable due to temperature changes, heavy loads, and aging. Filling them promptly prevents water from seeping in and causing further damage.

  • Materials: Use a high-quality crack filler or sealant.
  • Steps:
    1. Clean the crack thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
    2. Apply the filler using a caulking gun or pour-and-spread method.
    3. Smooth the surface and allow it to cure as per the product instructions.
  • Frequency: Fill cracks as soon as they appear, and inspect for new cracks during routine inspections.

4. Sealcoat the Surface

Sealcoating protects your asphalt from water damage, UV rays, oil spills, and wear and tear.

  • Frequency: Apply sealcoat every 2 to 3 years for driveways and 1 to 2 years for high-traffic areas like parking lots.
  • Steps:
    1. Clean the surface thoroughly.
    2. Repair cracks and potholes before sealcoating.
    3. Apply the sealcoat using a squeegee or spray system.
    4. Allow the sealcoat to dry completely (usually 24-48 hours) before using the surface.
  • Professional Help: For best results, consider hiring a professional paving contractor.

Learn how asphalt paving benefits from regular maintenance.

5. Repair Potholes

Potholes are not only unsightly but also hazardous. Repairing them promptly prevents further damage and ensures safety.

  • Materials: Use cold patch asphalt or a pothole repair kit.
  • Steps:
    1. Clean the pothole and remove loose debris.
    2. Fill the hole with the repair material and compact it thoroughly.
    3. Smooth the surface and allow it to cure.
  • Professional Help: For large or multiple potholes, consult a professional for long-lasting repairs.

6. Ensure Proper Drainage

Water is one of the biggest threats to asphalt surfaces. Proper drainage prevents pooling water, which can weaken the base layer and cause cracks or potholes.

  • Inspect Drainage: Check for areas where water pools and ensure gutters, drains, and slopes are functioning properly.
  • Repair Low Spots: Fill and level low spots to restore proper drainage.
  • Clean Drains: Remove debris from drains and gutters to prevent blockages.

7. Protect Against Heavy Loads

Heavy vehicles and equipment can cause depressions, ruts, and cracks in asphalt surfaces.

  • Limit Heavy Vehicles: Avoid parking heavy trucks, RVs, or construction equipment on your asphalt for extended periods.
  • Use Load Distribution: Place plywood or other materials under heavy loads to distribute weight evenly.

8. Address Oil and Chemical Spills

Oil, gasoline, and chemicals can soften asphalt and cause it to deteriorate.

  • Clean Spills Immediately: Use an absorbent material like cat litter to soak up spills, then clean the area with a degreaser.
  • Prevent Spills: Place drip pans under vehicles to catch leaks.

9. Avoid Harsh De-Icing Chemicals

In winter, de-icing chemicals like rock salt can damage asphalt by causing it to crack and crumble.

  • Use Alternatives: Opt for sand or calcium chloride instead of rock salt.
  • Shovel Snow Promptly: Remove snow as soon as possible to minimize the need for de-icing chemicals.

10. Trim Vegetation

Weeds and grass growing through cracks can damage your asphalt surface over time.

  • Remove Vegetation: Pull out weeds and grass as soon as you notice them. Use a weed killer or vinegar solution to prevent regrowth.
  • Fill Cracks: After removing vegetation, fill the cracks to prevent future growth.

11. Avoid Sharp Objects

Sharp objects like snowplow blades, metal shovels, or heavy equipment can scratch or gouge the asphalt surface.

  • Use Plastic Tools: Opt for plastic shovels or snowplow blades to minimize damage during snow removal.
  • Be Cautious: Avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface.

12. Schedule Professional Inspections

Regular inspections by a professional paving contractor can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.

  • Frequency: Have your asphalt surface inspected at least once a year.
  • Benefits: Professionals can spot signs of wear, drainage issues, or structural problems that may not be visible to the untrained eye.

13. Resurface When Necessary

Even with proper maintenance, asphalt surfaces will eventually show signs of aging. Resurfacing can restore the appearance and functionality of your pavement.

  • Signs to Resurface: Extensive cracking, potholes, or uneven surfaces.
  • Professional Resurfacing: Hire a paving contractor to apply a new layer of asphalt over the existing surface. This is more cost-effective than a complete replacement.

Conclusion

Following this routine asphalt maintenance checklist will help you keep your pavement in top shape and extend its lifespan. Regular inspections, cleaning, crack filling, sealcoating, and addressing drainage issues are simple yet effective ways to protect your investment.

By staying proactive and addressing small issues early, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your asphalt surface remains smooth, safe, and durable for years to come. If you’re unsure about any maintenance task, consult a professional paving contractor for expert advice and assistance. With proper care, your asphalt pavement can continue to perform well and enhance the value of your property.