As the leaves change color and cooler temperatures roll in, property managers and business owners often turn their attention to snow removal contracts and winter prep. But there’s one area that shouldn’t be overlooked: your parking lots, curbs, and gutters.
Fall is the perfect season to prepare asphalt and concrete for the months ahead. Without the right maintenance now, small cracks and drainage issues can turn into major headaches by spring.
At PLM Paving and Concrete, we know how Wisconsin winters put pavement to the test, and we’re here to help you protect your investment.
Why Fall Maintenance Matters
Asphalt and concrete surfaces face a constant battle against freeze–thaw cycles, plowing, and de-icing chemicals. When water seeps into cracks or joints and freezes, it expands causing pavement to heave, spall, or break apart. Addressing these issues in the fall means less damage, fewer liability risks, and lower repair costs down the road.
Your Fall Pavement Protection Checklist
1. Inspect and Clean
Start with a thorough walkthrough of your property. Look for cracks, potholes, surface wear, or spalling concrete. Clear away leaves and debris, especially in curbs and gutters, to make sure water can flow freely.
2. Seal Cracks in Asphalt
Unsealed cracks are like open doors for water and ice. Sealing them before winter prevents expansion and pothole formation.
3. Repair Problem Areas
Potholes or sunken asphalt? Fall is a great time for infrared patching, which bonds new asphalt to existing pavement and creates a seamless repair.
4. Refresh Sealcoating (if needed)
If your asphalt hasn’t been sealed in the last 2–3 years and weather permits, sealcoating adds a protective layer that resists salt, water, and UV rays. Plan for next season! Here is a quick look at what seal coating your parking lot looks like – https://www.youtube.com/shorts/x7xB-pzT8Z4
5. Seal Concrete Joints
Concrete curbs and gutters need joint sealing to block water infiltration. This reduces cracking and frost heave.
6. Check Drainage Systems
Gutters, catch basins, and storm drains must be free of blockages. Standing water in winter leads to dangerous ice patches and long-term damage.
7. Remove Stains and Build-Up
Oil and chemical stains eat away at pavement. A power cleaning in fall not only improves appearance but also protects the surface.
8. Prepare for Snow Removal
Mark islands, curbs, and edges with reflective stakes so snowplows don’t cause accidental damage. Confirm your snow removal contractor uses proper blade settings to avoid scraping sealcoat or concrete.
9. Use Safe De-icers
Not all ice melts are created equal. For new concrete especially, avoid rock salt and opt for safer alternatives to reduce scaling and surface damage.
Protect Your Investment Before Winter Hits
Fall is the season of preservation. By addressing cracks, drainage, and protective measures now, you’ll avoid costly spring repairs and ensure your parking lot, curbs, and gutters are safe, durable, and ready for whatever winter brings.
At PLM Paving and Concrete, our team specializes in asphalt and concrete maintenance that stands up to Wisconsin weather. Whether you need crack sealing, infrared patching, sealcoating, or concrete repairs, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today at 262-810-2899 or visit www.plmpaving.com to schedule your fall maintenance service.
