1. Question: We just installed a new asphalt parking lot. What is the best way to deal with snow
and ice in the winter? Sand only? If chemicals, what to use/avoid? We want to protect our
investment and avoid degrading the new asphalt surface
ANSWER: Thank you for your inquiry. Here are a few tips, which you can do, to insure that your
property is prepared: What to use for ice control, you can use salt or chemical deicers such as Mag-
Chloride. Keep in mind mag-chloride is a chemical which can have adverse effects on landscaping if
it is constantly coming in contact with the vegetation. No matter what is used it should be used in
moderation, using only what is needed and not to over treat the pavements. If mag-chloride is going
to be used it can be applied before a snow event to deter the formation of ice. This is the procedure
most agencies use before a snow event. It is typically not as effective in parking lots. Water is the
primary culprit to any damaged asphalt during the colder months. So, whenever possible, as
cracks develop they should be sealed to prevent water infiltration. • Seal all cracks on your
paved surfaces. This should be looked at 2 times per year to help protect your investment.
You should look at the lot in the fall to seal the cracks prior to winter moisture and in the
spring to see if the freeze thaw cycles of winter have created any thermal cracking. Crack
sealing is one of the most inexpensive preventative maintenance procedures you can
perform. • Seal all open joints on your paved surface. This refers to any joints which were
created during the construction of your asphalt pavement. • Seal joints between concrete and
paved surfaces especially on the north side of buildings where daily sunshine is at a
minimum. This refers to those areas adjacent to any curb and gutter, drainage cross pans,
etcetera. The purpose of this is to keep surface water from penetrating the surface and
deteriorating the structural support for the asphalt materials. • Make sure that your property has
appropriate drainage. Proper drainage prevents potential pavement damage by quickly escorting
unwanted water from the paved surface. Water is the biggest enemy of an asphalt pavement. Have
a designated area where the snow will be piled when plowed. It should be on the lowest part of the
pavement or off of the pavement if at all possible. If you pile the snow at a high point you will get
water running across the pavement as it melts. During nighttime when that water freezes it will begin
to deteriorate your asphalt from the constant freeze- thaw cycles. If the snow will be piled off of the
asphalt it is best to not pile it on a high side where the melting snow and subsequent runoff will be
directed under the asphalt. If at all possible all snow should be piled in a low point. • Clean any
debris from existing swales on your property that are used to contain and direct storm water from the
pavement. • Clean out any debris that has accumulated inside any drainage inlets. If the drainage is
not moving as designed it can cause damage which will be unseen for some time. Once it appears
the cost of repairs could be costly. • Insure that the pipes used to transport the storm water to and
from these inlets are not clogged and free from debris. (See above) • Snow plows can cause heavy
damage to adjacent structures, yards, landscaping, curb and sidewalks. To prevent collateral
damage you will need mark these areas for those who clear the snow from your pavements. Another
thing to consider about snow plows, is to watch for them causing damage simply from the plow being
driven into the asphalt surface. One consideration is to require rubber edged blades on snow plows.
This is not common so it may be difficult to find a vender who has rubber edged plow blades. • Place
reflective markers along the edge of existing pavements. Your plow company will not be as familiar
with the lot as you are. Having monuments for them to see and not damage the curb, gutter, etcetera
will help to keep the pavement intact. • Place reflective markers along the edge of existing curb. (See
above) • Clearly mark sidewalks. This will help to keep you landscape intact. Many snow removal
contractors use mechanical method for removing the snow on sidewalks. If the landscaping is left in
place moisture can and will be absorbed back into the soils. Follow these simple tips and you will be
ready for the snow to fall.