When autumn arrives, the beautiful leaves and shorter days remind us that winter is coming soon. It’s also a critical time to take care of your asphalt surfaces, especially if you’re in Utah. Autumn is the perfect opportunity to prepare your driveway for winter. Here are some easy tips to help you maintain your driveway during this season. KEEP LEAVES OFF YOUR DRIVEWAY Autumn leaves are lovely, but they can cause problems on your driveway. Wet leaves are slippery and can make people slip and fall. They can also get into cracks and make them worse. And if they block your drains, water can gather on your asphalt driveway. So, take a little time during autumn to sweep away the leaves. It’s worth it to keep your driveway safe and in good shape. WATCH OUT FOR PUDDLES With more rain and snow on the way, you don’t want water to gather on your asphalt driveway. It can be dangerous for people and vehicles, especially when it freezes. Also, it can harm your driveway. When water gets into cracks and then freezes, it can break your driveway. THE POWER OF PRESSURE WASHING If it’s been a while since you cleaned your asphalt driveway, you might notice stubborn stains and marks. These blemishes can result from various sources, such as motor oil, mold, dirt, debris, or other agents. Fortunately, there’s a simple and effective solution: pressure washing. A pressure washer can swiftly eliminate most of these unsightly marks, rejuvenating the appearance of your driveway. This process not only enhances your curb appeal but also prevents further damage. By removing contaminants and preventing their prolonged contact with the asphalt, you extend the life of your asphalt driveway. MANAGING STANDING WATER With autumn’s arrival, more rainfall and snowy weather are on the horizon. It’s essential to ensure that your driveway doesn’t become a hotspot for standing water. This issue poses risks to both pedestrians and vehicles, especially when the standing water freezes during cold spells. Furthermore, it can lead to damage to your driveway. With autumn’s arrival, more rainfall and snowy weather are on the horizon. It’s essential to ensure that your driveway doesn’t become a hotspot for standing water. This issue poses risks to both pedestrians and vehicles, especially when the standing water freezes during cold spells. Furthermore, it can lead to damage to your asphalt driveway. As temperatures drop, standing water can seep into cracks in your driveway. When it freezes and thaws, it exerts additional pressure on the asphalt, potentially causing cracks and potholes. To prevent this, ensure your driveway has proper drainage. Clear any debris or obstructions from drainage systems to allow water to flow away from the surface effectively. A THOROUGH INSPECTION After you’ve cleared your driveway of leaves, take some time to inspect the asphalt. Look for signs of damage, including cracks, potholes, or other issues. Identifying these problems early is essential for addressing them promptly. In autumn, it’s crucial to remember that weather changes can exacerbate pavement issues. With the cold season approaching, any existing cracks or damage can worsen when subjected to freezing and thawing cycles. Don’t delay in scheduling necessary repairs. Waiting can lead to more extensive damage, making repairs more costly and time-consuming. RENEW MARKINGS Driveway markings include lines, arrows, and parking spaces, which are essential for guiding traffic and ensuring safety on your driveway. However, these markings can deteriorate over time, especially during the hot summer months when the sun’s rays beat down on them relentlessly. Autumn offers an ideal opportunity to evaluate the condition of your driveway markings. After sweeping your driveway clean, examine the markings closely. If you notice that the once-bright white lines have faded or become less visible, it’s time to consider re-marking your driveway. Fresh pavement markings not only enhance the aesthetics of your property but also contribute to safety and organization. Trust Asphalt Experts – Your Partner for Asphalt Care Excellence in Utah.