Asphalt Driveway before Winter – 7‑Step Protection Plan for London ON Homes
Getting an Asphalt Driveway before Winter ready for deep freezes and heavy snow is far easier than paying for spring resurfacing. London’s freeze–thaw cycles push water into tiny pores; when that water turns to ice it expands and pries pavement apart. Follow EMESA’s seven essential steps, and your Asphalt Driveway before Winter will roll into April looking as good as it does now.
1. Inspect and Clean the Surface
Choose a dry afternoon and walk every metre of pavement. Mark hairline cracks, shallow depressions, or early potholes with sidewalk chalk so you can find them later. Sweep or blow away leaves, acorns, and gravel because debris traps moisture. A spotless surface lets patch material bond properly, the first rule of caring for any Asphalt Driveway before Winter.
2. Repair Cracks and Potholes Promptly
Water that collects in an open crack turns into an ice jack. Use pourable rubber crack sealer for gaps under 12 millimetres and high‑quality cold patch for larger voids. Cut edges square, add patch mix in thin lifts, and tamp firmly with a hand tamper. Well‑compacted repairs blend smoothly with the surrounding mat and stay put through January thaws. Need help? EMESA’s asphalt paving team can complete repairs quickly.
3. Sealcoat for Moisture and Salt Defense
Fresh sealer prevents UV oxidation, blocks road salt, and restores rich black colour. Schedule sealing while daytime temperatures stay above ten degrees Celsius and rain is unlikely for 48 hours. Apply an even film with a long squeegee or low‑pressure spray and keep cars off the drive until the surface no longer feels tacky. Learn more about EMESA’s asphalt sealant service before protecting your Asphalt Driveway before Winter.
4. Verify and Improve Drainage
Standing water is a driveway’s mortal enemy. During inspection, pour a bucket of water in any low spot; if it puddles more than two minutes, grade corrections are needed. Clear gutters so melting snow does not splash onto pavement, and extend downspouts to the lawn. EMESA can create shallow swales or install channel drains so meltwater exits an Asphalt Driveway before Winter fast enough to prevent ice sheets.
5. Stock Safe Snow and Ice Supplies
Purchase a plastic shovel or a snow blower with rubber‑edged augers to protect sealcoat. Store calcium magnesium acetate or sand in a sealed bin—rock salt dries binder oils and leaves white stains. Having safer de‑icers on hand ensures you never harm an Asphalt Driveway before Winter storms sweep through.
6. Practice Ongoing Winter Care
Clear snow within 24 hours to limit compaction that turns powder into rock‑hard ice. Push shovels in straight rows to avoid gouges. After each storm, inspect the surface; winter‑grade crack filler works even in sub‑zero temperatures. Routine checks keep minor flaws from becoming hundred‑dollar potholes and preserve every Asphalt Driveway before Winter for the long term.
7. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even diligent owners can miss subsurface voids. EMESA’s winter‑prep visit includes thermal imaging to locate hidden moisture pockets, infrared reheating for soft areas, and a written report with photos. One short appointment now secures your Asphalt Driveway before Winter and sets a maintenance baseline for next year.
Quick Maintenance Checklist
• Sweep debris weekly during leaf season
• Sealcoat every two to three years
• Fill cracks under 12 mm within two weeks
• Support driveway edges with soil or stone
• Store de‑icer in a dry container
Find detailed product reviews and videos on the EMESA blog and before‑and‑after photos in our gallery. Answers to common questions are in the FAQ.
Why Choose EMESA for Winter Prep
Regional expertise after decades in Southwestern Ontario
Polymer‑modified sealers and commercial cold patch for lasting repairs
Itemised quotes, clear timelines, and no hidden fees
Written workmanship warranty plus responsive follow‑up support
Book Your Winter Protection Service
Protecting an Asphalt Driveway before Winter is simpler and cheaper than repairing spring damage. Request a free site assessment through our contact page or explore more services on the home page. Take proactive steps now and your Asphalt Driveway before Winter will remain smooth, safe, and photo‑ready when the snow melts.
