Should I Use Salt on My Asphalt Driveway? Here's What You Need to Know

Asphalt is a popular material for driveways, but when it comes to winter maintenance of your asphalt driveway, you may be wondering: can I put salt on my asphalt driveway? The answer is more complex than one might think. Salt can affect the lifespan and condition of an asphalt driveway if not used properly or maintained correctly. In this blog post, we will explore what is involved in caring for an asphalt driveway during winter, including what asphalt is and how salt affects it. We'll also discuss some helpful maintenance tips that every homeowner should remember when dealing with their asphalt pavement surface.

What is Asphalt?

Asphalt is used to pave roads, driveways, parking lots, and more. Asphalt is a type of paving material made from bitumen, which is a combination of various organic liquids that are highly viscous. It also contains stone aggregate, sand, and other materials such as fibers or rubber particles.

Definition of Asphalt:

Asphalt is a dark-colored solid or semi-solid form of petroleum that can be found in natural deposits or produced artificially. Due to its waterproofing properties, it has many uses, including road construction and roofing applications.

Composition of Asphalt:

The composition of asphalt varies depending on the application it's being used for. It typically includes bitumen (a black sticky substance), stone aggregate (crushed rock), sand, and other additives like fibers or rubber particles.

One significant benefit to using asphalt for paving projects is its durability; properly installed and maintained can last up to 20 years before needing repairs or replacement. Additionally, asphalt provides excellent traction making it ideal for use in areas where vehicles will be driving over it regularly, such as parking lots or driveways. Finally, asphalt requires minimal maintenance compared to other types of pavement, so you won't have to worry about spending too much time caring for your driveway each year.

Asphalt is a durable and cost-effective material for paving surfaces. However, its longevity can be compromised by the use of salt on asphalt, which we will discuss next.

How Does Salt Affect Asphalt?

Salt is a common deicing agent used on asphalt driveways in Lexington's winter months. However, salt can have both short-term and long-term effects on asphalt surfaces. In the short term, salt can cause damage to asphalt by corroding it and causing potholes or cracks in the surface. Salt also increases water absorption into the pavement, which can lead to further deterioration of the material over time. Long-term effects of salt include increased wear and tear due to corrosion as well as decreased durability of the pavement due to weakened structural integrity caused by water infiltration.

When using salt for deicing purposes, it is important to use an appropriate amount that will not be too harsh on your driveway's surface. Alternatives such as sand or kitty litter are available for those who want to avoid using salt altogether; these alternatives provide traction without damaging your driveway as traditional salts do. Additionally, applying sealant after each winter season helps protect against any potential damage from road salts or other deicers throughout the year.

Salt can damage asphalt driveways in the long term, so it is important to consider alternatives when maintaining your driveway. Regular cleaning and sealing of an asphalt driveway will help ensure its longevity and repair cracks and potholes that may form over time.

Maintenance Tips for an Asphalt Driveway

Maintaining an asphalt driveway is essential for preserving its life and keeping it looking great. Regular driveway cleaning and sealing will help protect it from damage caused by weather, salt, oil, gas, and other elements. Cleaning should be done at least twice a year with a pressure washer or garden hose to remove dirt and debris that can cause cracks in the surface. Sealing should also be done every few years to fill any existing hairline cracks as well as prevent new ones from forming.

Repairing cracks and potholes in the driveway is also essential for maintaining its condition. More minor cracks can be filled with asphalt crack filler, while larger holes may require more extensive repair work, such as patching or resurfacing. It's best to have these repairs done by a professional paving contractor like Lexington Asphalt Services, who has extensive experience working with asphalt driveways here in Kentucky.

Finally, avoiding damage from heavy vehicles or equipment is key when it comes to maintaining an asphalt driveway. Try not to park large trucks or other heavy items on your driveway since they can cause significant wear over time due to their weight and size. Additionally, keep sharp objects away from your pavement, such as plow blades, so they don't gouge the surface of your asphalt driveway, causing further damage down the line.

Lexington Asphalt Services Driveway Maintenance 

Asphalt is a popular material used for driveways in Lexington due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. However, salt can hurt an asphalt driveway if not applied correctly or in the right amounts during winter. To ensure your asphalt driveway remains in good condition, follow proper maintenance tips, such as avoiding putting salt on your asphalt driveway unless absolutely necessary. Following these simple steps can help keep your asphalt driveway looking great for years to come. If you have any questions or if your pavement needs to be repaired, give us a call so we can help with your paving project.