Tennessee winters may not be as harsh as up north, but cold temperatures, freezing rain, and occasional snow can still take a toll on asphalt parking lots. Cracks expand, water freezes beneath the surface, and minor damage can quickly turn into costly repairs. Preparing your commercial lot before winter hits is one of the smartest investments you can make.

At R&R Paving, we’ve spent over three decades helping Nashville-area businesses protect their asphalt from winter’s wear and tear. Here’s how you can keep your lot in top condition all season long.

1. Sealcoat Before the Freeze

Sealcoating acts as a protective barrier against moisture, oils, and road salt—three major culprits behind winter pavement damage. Ideally, sealcoating should be done before temperatures drop below 50°F.

A fresh sealcoat:

• Prevents water penetration that leads to cracks and potholes

• Helps the surface resist freeze-thaw cycles

• Improves traction and safety during wet or icy conditions

• Gives your parking lot a dark, clean look that enhances curb appeal

If your business hasn’t had a sealcoat in the last two years, it’s time to schedule one before winter arrives.

2. Inspect and Improve Drainage

Even the best asphalt won’t last long if water can’t properly drain. Standing water seeps into cracks, freezes overnight, and expands—causing the asphalt to heave or crumble.

Before winter, have your lot inspected for:

• Low spots or pooling areas where water collects

• Clogged drains or catch basins filled with debris

• Improper grading that pushes water toward buildings or walkways

R&R Paving can regrade sections, install French drains, or add curbing to direct runoff away from vulnerable areas—protecting both your pavement and your property.

3. Use the Right Snow & Ice Removal Techniques

When winter weather strikes, improper plowing or salting can damage your asphalt surface. Heavy plows can scrape off sealant, while certain chemicals can eat away at the binder in asphalt.

Best practices include:

• Using rubber-tipped plow blades to prevent gouges

• Avoiding rock salt where possible; opt for calcium chloride or magnesium chloride

• Keeping a thin, even salt spread to minimize runoff into landscaping

• Never using metal shovels directly on the asphalt surface

If your business contracts out snow removal, make sure your vendor understands these guidelines.

4. Fill Cracks and Repair Potholes Early

Small cracks are more than cosmetic—they’re gateways for water. Before winter, have those areas cleaned and filled with a hot rubberized crack sealant. For any surface potholes, a quick asphalt patch can prevent expansion once freezing begins.

By tackling these repairs proactively, you save thousands later in full-depth reconstruction costs.

5. Schedule a Spring Follow-Up

Winter protection doesn’t end when the snow melts. As spring approaches, schedule a professional inspection to assess any surface damage or drainage changes caused by freeze-thaw cycles. R&R Paving can reseal, re-stripe, or patch small issues before they escalate into major repairs.

Protect Your Investment Year-Round

Your parking lot is often the first impression customers get of your business. A well-maintained lot not only looks professional—it reduces liability, prevents costly downtime, and extends the life of your pavement.

At R&R Paving, we help Middle Tennessee businesses winter-proof their properties with expert sealcoating, crack repair, and drainage solutions that last.

Don’t wait for the first freeze—prepare now.