Winter Asphalt Care in Connecticut: What You Can Do Until Spring Arrives

When winter settles over Connecticut, asphalt goes through a tough season. Freeze-thaw cycles tug at every crack, road salt soaks the surface, and snow piles melt and refreeze like a slow-moving science experiment. By the time spring rolls around, driveways and parking lots can look tired, worn, or even damaged.

But here’s the good news. Even though it’s too late for sealcoating or crackfilling during the cold months, there’s still plenty you can do right now to protect your pavement until asphalt crews are back in season.

Tips to protect your pavement until spring

Keep the surface clean and clear

Leaves, pine needles, and leftover snow trap moisture. A quick sweep every couple of weeks helps your pavement dry faster and resist winter stress.

Use cold patch for temporary pothole fixes

Cold patch isn’t a forever solution, but it keeps water out of small potholes so they don’t grow larger through the season.

Go easy on the salt

Salt is necessary for safety, but heavy use pulls moisture deeper into asphalt. Mixing in sand gives you traction while reducing wear.

Push snow piles away from the pavement

Snow stacked against your driveway or lot drains meltwater right back across the surface. Push piles toward grassy areas whenever possible.

Raise plow and shovel blades slightly

A small lift protects your asphalt from scrapes that can become springtime repair jobs.

Keep gutters and downspouts clear

Directing meltwater away from the pavement reduces freeze-thaw cycles.

Mark driveway and lot edges

Stakes help plow drivers avoid edging, curbs, or grass, keeping the pavement safer through winter.

Sweep sand and salt between storms

Excess grit becomes sandpaper under tires. A quick sweep reduces extra wear.

Watch existing cracks

You can’t seal them now, but monitoring them helps you prioritize repairs once spring arrives.

Book spring service early

Asphalt contractors in Connecticut fill their calendars fast. Scheduling early helps you secure a place at the front of the line.