Top 5 Mistakes People Make with Asphalt in the Winter

Winter in Ontario is tough on asphalt. Between freezing temperatures, heavy snow, road salt, and snow plows, even the strongest driveway or parking lot can take a beating. Most of the damage we see in spring is preventable. The key is knowing what not to do once the snow starts falling.

Mistake 1: Using the Wrong De-Icer

Rock salt may be cheap and effective at melting ice, but it's one of asphalt's worst enemies. Salt seeps into cracks, accelerates freeze-thaw cycles, and corrodes the surface. Use calcium chloride or magnesium-based products instead — they're gentler on asphalt and still effective at melting ice in cold conditions.

Mistake 2: Waiting Too Long to Clear Snow

Letting snow and ice build up creates heavier loads on your asphalt surface, more freeze-thaw cycles as snow melts and refreezes, and a higher risk of water seeping into cracks. Shovel or plow regularly — frequent clearing reduces stress on the surface and makes de-icers more effective.

Mistake 3: Using Metal Shovels or Aggressive Plow Blades

Metal tools can gouge the asphalt, peel up edges, and scrape away protective sealant. Use a plastic shovel for small jobs and ensure plows have rubber-tipped or properly adjusted blades for larger areas.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Drainage Issues

If you have low spots where water pools, winter only makes it worse. Melted snow and ice collect, seep in, freeze, and expand — leading to cracks and potholes by spring. In the fall, patch or level low spots. During winter, clear away slush and keep drainage channels free.

Mistake 5: Skipping Fall Maintenance Altogether

The biggest mistake is heading into winter with unsealed cracks, faded sealcoat, or unrepaired damage. Winter magnifies every weakness. Sealcoat and repair your asphalt before the first freeze — a sealed surface resists salt, plows, and water infiltration far better than an untreated one.

Contact Lawns & Lanes today to schedule your inspection and maintenance before the next storm hits.