Prevent Slips And Falls On Your Asphalt Driveway This Winter
Asphalt finishes a driveway nicely – it creates a smooth finish that can look great and will require minimal care throughout the year. One bad thing about having an asphalt driveway is the slip and fall risks that come during the winter. Here, you'll find a few tips that can help you prevent slipping and falling on your asphalt driveway.
Yearly Sealing
The driveway should be sealed each year – some people do it twice – once in the spring and once just before winter hits. The goal of sealing the driveway is to seal all of the cracks and maintain a solid finish. When an asphalt driveway is installed and sealed properly, the water should run right off of it – no dips for puddles to form in.
When the moisture runs off of the driveway, there won't be anything left to freeze. So, if the driveway has dips or isn't sloped properly, talk with your local asphalt professional. He or she will be able to assist you with coming up with a plan to fix the issues causing ice to form on your driveway.
Use Deicing Agents
Most people opt for rock salt as a deicing agent for their driveways and sidewalks. Yes, rock salt is cheap, effective, and easy to use, but it sure does leave a mess once the snow has melted.
Another product that melts snow and ice very effectively is calcium halite pellets. These are the little white balls that you'll see all over the ground – usually around busy shopping plazas. This material is more expensive than rock salt, but it is equally as effective without causing as much damage to the vegetation around the sidewalks. Yes, this does leave white residue behind, but it washes off easier than rock salt residue.
Tip: If you have dogs, you need to look for pet-friendly deicing agents. If your dog gets rock salt on his feet and licks it off, he could begin to develop health problems that will only be resolved with the treatment of your local vet. If you must use rock salt, make sure to wash your dog's paws each time he comes in.
Keep it Clean
When the weather breaks, drag the hose out and spray your driveway down. This will help to keep the residue to a minimum and prevent the break-down of the sealant that protects the asphalt below.
Talk with a company like Oregon Paving Co to learn more about taking care of your asphalt driveway during the winter.
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