When it comes to household maintenance, sometimes the simplest tasks reap the greatest benefits. The same could be said when it comes to taking care of paved surfaces. This is especially true in the fall, when leaves and other debris can begin to collect on driveways, parking lots, and patios. Believe it or not, one of the most effective steps you can take to preserve your pavement is to simply remove this debris. Here’s why that’s true.
When leaves and other debris collect on any paved surface, they trap moisture. And anytime moisture remains in contact with a paved surface, it eventually seeps into tiny cracks. Once that happens – particularly in the fall and winter – the moisture can expand and contract with changing temperatures. This damages the sublayers of the pavement, weakening the surface and resulting in damage such as large cracks, crumbling, and potholes. If that kind of damage isn’t repaired promptly, the surface just continues to deteriorate.
Homeowners can avoid these problems with either a broom or leaf blower. Just make sure you remove the leaves and debris on a regular basis. Avoid the temptation to wait until all the leaves fall off your trees. Remember that the longer the leaves and other plant debris sit on the pavement, the more moisture they collect and the more damage is done to the paved surface. So sweeping or blowing off the leaves every few days is the best way to maintain your driveway or patio.
If you’re a business owner with a larger sized parking lot, or if you’re responsible for maintaining a road surface, you should consider arranging for a professional street sweeping service to come in periodically to remove the leaves, dirt, and debris from the paved surfaces. While it’s true that a professional street sweeper will cost money, consider it an investment that will pay for itself in the long run since you’ll be avoiding costly pavement repairs that you would end up needing if you didn’t have the debris removed.
Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, there are other good reasons to remove leaves from your paved surfaces. Removing debris makes the pavement safer for both pedestrians and drivers. And if you’re trying to sell your home or business, you’ll be improving the “curb appeal” by keeping surfaces clean. Even if you’re not selling your business, maintaining a clean parking area is sure to attract more clients and customers than one that is full of debris!
For more information about how to maintain your pavement, contact a local paving contractor today and schedule an appointment.