Maintaining Your Driveway During Winter

It can be difficult to keep your driveway looking attractive, particularly for those who live in an area with heavy rains, snow, and ice. Your driveway is visible from the street and can be an enhancement for the property when it is in good shape. Maintaining it properly during winter is important in keeping it looking great year-round and protecting the value of your property. Read the following tips for maintaining your driveway during winter:

• Keep your driveway clear of leaves and other debris by regularly using a leaf blower or rake. Be alert for oil spills or other substances that can seep into the concrete or asphalt and leave stains or the risk of a slip-and-fall accident. Pressure washing your driveway on a yearly basis helps to clean off any unsightly spots or slippery areas.
• Avoid the use of de-icing chemicals as these products contain sulfates or ammonium nitrates that can damage the surface of your driveway. Salt can be less harmful but could damage trees and plants and corrode metal. If you need traction on your driveway due to icy or snowy conditions, the best options include natural sand or clay kitty litter. These products give you the traction you need without harming the surface of your driveway or nearby vegetation.
• Be careful with snow removal, whether you use a small home snowplow, a snow shovel, or hire a professional to clear your driveway of heavy snow. If the blade on a plow is too low, it can hit the surface of the driveway leaving unsightly gouges and scratches. If you use a professional snowplowing service, get recommendations from friends and neighbors so the plow operator is careful with your driveway surface, and is familiar with the correct methods to avoid unnecessary damage.
• Seal or waterproof your driveway with a sealing product, which are available at your local hardware or home improvement store. Sealants can be used every few years to protect the driveway surface from damage. Fill any cracks that have appeared so that water is less likely to seep in and freeze, leading to unsightly buckling and cracking.
• If a storm passes through your area, remove snow and ice quickly. Repeated freezing and thawing of snow and ice on driveways will eventually damage the surface as it enters small cracks and fissures and then expands and contracts. 

Your driveway can be expensive to restore. Maintaining it properly, especially over the winter months, will make it last far longer and keep it looking good. When you need to freshen your home on the inside, call the professionals at COIT to take advantage of their carpet and hardwood cleaning or to remove the dust out of upholstery, drapes, and air ducts. Taking care of a home is a big responsibility, and there is always a new task. Make clearing your driveway of snow and ice fun, and get the family to join in – it will be faster, and working together as a team makes any job more enjoyable.