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Asphalt Crack Filling: What Homeowners Should Do Before Winter in Central Ohio

As temperatures begin to drop across Central Ohio, many homeowners start thinking about winterizing their homes. While sealing windows and cleaning gutters are important, one task that often gets overlooked is asphalt crack filling. Neglecting this maintenance step can allow water to seep into cracks, freeze, and expand—causing costly damage that worsens with every freeze-thaw cycle. Whether you maintain a long rural driveway or a suburban parking area, preparing your asphalt before the cold sets in is essential.

Why Crack Filling Matters Before Winter 

Crack filling prevents small surface breaks from turning into major problems. When moisture seeps beneath asphalt, it weakens the base and accelerates deterioration. Once temperatures drop below freezing, that trapped water expands, widening the cracks and creating potholes. Completing crack filling before winter keeps out moisture and helps maintain the smooth, even surface you want year-round.

The Best Time to Crack Fill

In Central Ohio, fall is the best time to crack fill because daytime temperatures are still warm enough for the materials to adhere properly. Asphalt repair compounds perform best when applied in dry conditions above 50°F, allowing them to cure and bond effectively. Tackling these repairs before the first frost ensures your driveway or parking lot is sealed and protected through winter’s harsh conditions.

DIY vs. Pro Crack Sealing

While some homeowners attempt DIY vs pro crack sealing, there are several reasons to consider hiring a professional paving contractor. Store-bought fillers and sealants can provide temporary relief, but they often fail to handle the stress of heavy traffic and fluctuating temperatures. Professional-grade materials penetrate deeper, resist weathering, and last longer. In addition, a professional paving team has the right tools to clean and prepare cracks properly before sealing.

Here’s what a professional service typically includes:

• Thorough cleaning and clearing of cracks to remove debris and vegetation.
• Application of high-quality, hot rubberized materials that expand and contract with temperature changes.
• Finishing touches, like seal coating, are used to create a smooth, weather-resistant surface that enhances appearance and longevity.

These steps are hard to replicate without specialized equipment and experience, making it worthwhile to call in an expert.

Choosing Materials That Last  

Not all sealants are created equal. When selecting a product or hiring a paving contractor, make sure they use materials that last—ideally, hot-pour rubberized crack fillers. These materials maintain flexibility during cold weather and are resistant to UV damage, ensuring a longer service life for your pavement. Combining this process with professional seal coating helps lock in protection and gives your asphalt a fresh, finished look.

Call Blacktop Ohio Before Winter Hits 

Winter is tough on asphalt, but you can get ahead of the damage with timely maintenance. Blacktop Ohio is an experienced paving contractor serving Columbus, specializing in crack filling and seal coating for both residential and commercial surfaces. Don’t wait until spring to discover cracks that could have been sealed now—contact Blacktop Ohio today to schedule your pre-winter asphalt inspection and service.