Winter weather in Northern Virginia can be brutal on your asphalt. Between freezing temps, road salt, snow plows, and moisture, your driveway or parking lot might not be looking its best by the time spring rolls around. But here’s the good news—spring is the ideal season to give your asphalt surface a little love and extend its life for years to come.
Whether you’ve got a long residential driveway or you manage a commercial lot, regular maintenance doesn’t just keep things looking sharp—it helps prevent expensive repairs down the road. Think of it like spring cleaning for your pavement. A few simple steps now can save you a whole lot of money and hassle later.
Step 1: Start With a Good Cleaning
You’d be surprised how much damage dirt and debris can do over time. Leaves, sticks, gravel, and oil stains trap moisture, which can seep into small cracks and lead to even bigger ones when the next freeze hits. A good power wash clears all that out and gives you a clean slate—literally.
Take a broom or blower to get rid of loose debris first, then use a hose or pressure washer to clean the surface. Be sure to spot treat any oil spots or rust stains, since they can weaken the surface over time if left untreated.
Step 2: Check for Cracks and Potholes
Once your asphalt is clean, take a walk around and inspect the surface. Keep an eye out for:
- Hairline cracks that could expand over time
- Small holes that collect water after a rain
- Uneven areas where pooling occurs
These might not look like much now, but they’re warning signs. Spring is the best time to schedule crack sealing or patchwork before summer heat causes materials to expand and worsen the damage.
Step 3: Seal It Up (If Needed)
If it’s been a few years since your last sealcoat—or if you’re seeing dull color and surface wear—it might be time to reseal. Sealcoating acts like sunscreen for your asphalt. It protects the surface from UV rays, moisture, chemicals, and day-to-day wear and tear. Best of all, it gives your pavement that rich, dark finish that makes everything look brand new again.
Just make sure to schedule sealing on a dry day with mild temps—spring and early summer are ideal windows for the job.
Step 4: Refresh the Lines and Edges
If you’ve got a commercial lot or defined parking areas, spring is a great time to touch up the striping. Clean, bright lines improve safety and give your space a crisp, professional look. Even at home, edging your driveway or adding decorative borders can elevate curb appeal and boost resale value.
Need help bringing your asphalt back to life this spring? Check out our full asphalt paving services, or explore how we handle driveway paving and asphalt resurfacing to keep your surface smooth and strong. Want expert advice on timing or pricing? Contact us here to schedule a free spring maintenance estimate.