Minnesota and the upper Midwest have their own specific issues with weather related damage to asphalt and concrete driveways, parking lots and roadways. But believe it or not, the cold winter temperatures are not the primary culprit of the damages suffered. It’s actually the temperature warming that does the most damage. While all of us who live in the upper Midwest have enjoyed a mild winter this year, the quickly fluctuating temperatures are doing major damage to our asphalt and concrete surfaces and will keep the commercial paving contractors of the area busy this coming spring and summer.

Asphalt patching and concrete patching is a quick fix but can often be as effective as a Band-Aid on a rhino. We’ve all seen it, a commercial paving contractor simply fills the potholes without proper preparation and within a short period, that pesky pothole is bigger than before. Professional and experienced commercial paving contractors will first prep the damaged area and “fuse” the new asphalt or concrete to the existing surface, providing much more effective patching.

Cracks in asphalt and concrete can also be a huge problem as winter gives way to the warmer weather of spring. The parking lot at your office building or apartment may shift and crack as the temperatures warm, creating potential major damage to your lot. Many commercial paving contractors will provide a free estimate and consultation regarding winter’s harsh effects on your paved surfaces, but be sure to contact a reputable commercial paving contractor to avoid repairing the damage again and again. While patching and crack filling are valid options, the damage can be so severe that a new surface is in order. If your lot or driveway or nearly any paved surface is beginning to look more like a patchwork quilt than a parking lot, it may be time to consider re-paving the surface entirely.