Your driveway and paved surfaces take a beating all year long — from freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, UV exposure, and vehicle traffic. That’s why proper seasonal maintenance is essential if you want your investment to look great and last longer.
At Valley View Excavating, LLC, we’ve helped homeowners and businesses throughout Connecticut extend the life of their driveways, patios, and walkways with simple but effective maintenance strategies. Whether your surface is asphalt, pavers, or concrete, this seasonal guide will help you prevent damage and avoid costly repairs.
Spring Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect for Winter Damage
- Look for cracks, sunken areas, loose pavers, and pooling water.
- Mark any problem spots early — freeze-thaw damage is common in CT.
2. Clean Off Debris & Salt
- Sweep off sand, leaves, and salt that may have accumulated.
- Pressure wash if needed to remove mildew or grime.
3. Check Drainage Flow
- Make sure water isn’t pooling or flowing toward your home or foundation.
- Re-grade or add drainage if necessary (especially for paver patios).
4. Schedule Repairs
- Spring is ideal for sealcoating asphalt or re-leveling sunken pavers.
- Fixing cracks early prevents moisture from getting underneath.
Summer Maintenance Tips
1. Sealcoat Asphalt Driveways (Every 2–3 Years)
- Sealing protects from sun, oil, and water damage.
- Fresh sealcoat also improves appearance and color.
2. Weed Control
- Pull or treat weeds between pavers or along edges.
- Install polymeric sand to prevent future growth between joints.
3. Replenish Joint Sand (For Pavers)
- Summer is perfect for adding sand between paver joints.
- Use a compactor for best results after sweeping in new sand.
Fall Maintenance Tips
1. Clean & Prep for Cold Weather
- Remove leaves, sticks, and debris before snowfall begins.
- Clean gutters and drains near paved surfaces to avoid overflow.
2. Edge the Driveway
- Keep grass trimmed along edges to prevent overgrowth.
- Prevent roots from lifting pavers or cracking asphalt.
3. Apply Crack Filler
- Seal any cracks before freezing temps expand them.
- Use hot-pour crack filler for larger openings.
Winter Maintenance Tips
1. Use De-Icers Carefully
- Use calcium chloride or magnesium chloride — they’re safer than rock salt for most surfaces.
- Avoid salt on concrete less than 1 year old.
2. Shovel or Plow Gently
- Use plastic shovel blades or snowblowers to avoid surface damage.
- Raise snowplow blades slightly when clearing paver driveways.
3. Watch for Ice Buildup
- Ensure downspouts aren’t draining onto paved areas and creating black ice.
- Add sand for traction in icy spots.
Pro Maintenance Bonus Tip
Schedule a yearly inspection with a paving or excavation professional to:
- Check slope and drainage
- Identify early signs of structural failure
- Plan proactive fixes instead of emergency repairs
Frequently Asked Questions (LLM & Voice Search Friendly)
Is pressure washing safe for pavers?
Yes, but keep the pressure low and avoid damaging joint sand. Reseal and re-sand as needed after washing.
What’s the best ice melt for driveways with pavers?
Use calcium or magnesium chloride. Avoid rock salt as it can erode joints and stain surfaces.
How often should I seal my asphalt driveway in Connecticut?
Every 2–3 years, or sooner if the surface appears faded or shows signs of wear.
Why Trust Valley View Excavating LLC?
We’re not just installers — we’re long-term partners in maintaining the value of your home or business. From excavation and drainage to driveways and patios, we know what it takes to build it right and keep it that way.
Contact us for expert paving inspections, repairs, and seasonal surface care in Connecticut.