The Importance Of Proper Drainage For Your Driveway In Winter
Winter is a great time of year for many people. Just think about how much fun it is to go outside and play in the snow! However, one problem that can arise during winter is water freezing on your driveway or in the cracks and gaps between its surface. This will damage asphalt over time and cause problems like potholes and other issues that can cost you more money down the road. It’s important to make sure your driveway runs properly so it doesn’t get damaged by ice melt or water freezing on it during cold weather months. If you’re wondering what’s the best ice melt, we’ve got you covered.
Safe Thaw
Safe Thaw was created as the ice management solution for tough winter environments. Ideal in commercial and industrial properties, shops, government agencies, bridges, and construction.
Having A Proper Drainage System
Having a proper drainage system not only helps prolong the life of your driveway but also ensures that the surface is safe throughout winter. When you have a new asphalt driveway installed, make sure to incorporate this feature right away.
It’s important to keep water flowing off of a driveway in winter so that the asphalt doesn’t get damaged as the water freezes.
Asphalt is a porous material, which means that it can soak up water and expand as it freezes. This is why you’ll often see potholes in the middle of an asphalt road as winter approaches. The expansion happens because ice crystals form when water freezes, pushing apart the grains of sand or other materials that make up your driveway’s surface. As this happens over and over again throughout the winter, those cracks will get bigger until they’re big enough for cars to fall into them–or even worse, they break apart completely!
Types of Trench Drainage Systems
There are various types of trench systems for the drainage for driveways, each designed for specific applications:
- Polymer Concrete Trench Drains: Lightweight and durable, these drains are suitable for residential drainage for driveways.
- Cast Iron Trench Drains: Heavy-duty and corrosion-resistant, they are often used in commercial and industrial settings.
- Slot Drains: These drains have a narrow opening for water entry, providing an aesthetically pleasing option for drainage for driveways.
What is a Driveway Trench Drain?
Proper drainage for driveway is essential to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to erosion, ice formation, and safety hazards. A driveway trench drain, also known as a channel drain, is a linear drainage system installed across the width of a driveway. It consists of a channel or trough with a grate cover. Its purpose is to collect and divert excess water away from the driveway’s surface, preventing puddles and potential damage.
Safe Thaw
Safe Thaw was created as the ice management solution for tough winter environments. Ideal in commercial and industrial properties, shops, government agencies, bridges, and construction.
Sloping Driveway Drainage Solutions
Sloping driveways can present unique drainage challenges. To address this, consider:
- French Drains: These underground drains collect water and redirect it away from the driveway.
- Gravel Driveways: What’s the drainage solutions for gravel driveways? Proper grading and the addition of a geotextile fabric can improve water runoff.
How to Maintain Driveway Drainage in Winters?
Maintaining driveway drainage during winters is crucial to prevent ice buildup and ensure safety. Here are some steps:
- Clear Drainage Channels: Remove leaves, debris, and snow from the trench drain to keep it functioning effectively.
- Apply Safe Thaw Ice Melter: To prevent ice formation around the drainage area, use Safe Thaw, a chloride-free ice melt that is safe for concrete and the environment.
Best Ice Melt For Driveway Drainage?
You can spend hours a day, every day, trying to remove all the ice and snow from your driveway. But this is an exercise in futility; there will always be some remaining on the surface of your driveway. The best way to deal with ice and snow is prevention: keep it from accumulating in the first place! Then, remove what you can and leave the rest to Safe Thaw! With Safe Thaw, you don’t have to worry about things like why does clear ice melt slower.
100% salt & chloride-free, fast acting Ice Management Solution
Dangers Of Winter Sunshine
While winter sunshine is a welcome sight after heavy rainfall, sleet, and snow, it can also damage your asphalt. This happens when water enters your driveway’s gaps and cracks then freezes and expands. The freezing-thawing process weakens your driveway’s structure over time, which can lead to potholes forming in time.
The solution? Drainage! By installing a drainage system on top of your existing asphalt surface before winter sets in (and keeping it clear during the season), you’ll be helping to avoid any future structural damage that might result from flooding or ice build-up near the edges of driveways.
Conclusion
When it comes to your driveway, proper drainage is key. It’s important for the longevity of your driveway and will help prevent potholes from forming. If you want to learn more about how we can help with your drainage needs, contact us today!
FAQs
Try Also Our Other Winter Safety Products:
Traction Magic
Stay safe on slippery surfaces with a product that’s 100% natural and safe for pets, people, and your property. Whether it’s sidewalks, steps, or even your car’s traction, Traction Magic is the go-to choice.
Safe Paw
The Original and #1 Selling Pet and Child Safe Ice Melt for over 20 years. Guaranteed environmentally safe –It won’t harm animals or children, and it won’t damage your property. That’s Safe Paw. Safe Paw can change how winter affects our planet.
