As summer heat gives way to cooler days, Georgia property owners have a window of opportunity to prepare their pavement for the months ahead. Fall is one of the best seasons to invest in asphalt care—temperatures are mild, rainfall is manageable, and repair work can set your pavement up for long-lasting durability. Whether you’re a homeowner with a driveway or a property manager responsible for commercial lots, following a proper fall asphalt maintenance checklist will save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
At Reid Paving, Inc., we’ve been helping property owners across Georgia and East Alabama protect their asphalt since 1977. Here’s what we recommend before winter sets in.
✅ Step 1: Inspect for Cracks and Early Damage
Small cracks might not seem like a big deal, but they’re the first sign of asphalt deterioration. Left untreated, these tiny openings allow water to seep beneath the surface, expanding and contracting with temperature changes. That’s when small cracks turn into big potholes.
Checklist Tip:
Walk your driveway or parking lot this fall.
Look for surface cracks, spiderweb patterns, or areas where the asphalt looks brittle.
Schedule crack sealing early—before cold weather makes repairs more complicated.
✅ Step 2: Repair Potholes and Depressions
Potholes don’t just damage vehicles—they’re also a liability for property owners. Fall is the perfect time to address them. Warmer weather allows repair materials to bond properly, creating a stronger fix than emergency winter patches.
Checklist Tip:
Fill and repair potholes now for a smoother, safer surface.
Address drainage issues in low spots that may collect standing water.
✅ Step 3: Sealcoat Your Asphalt
Sealcoating is one of the most cost-effective ways to extend the life of your asphalt. By applying a protective layer, you shield pavement from water, oils, chemicals, and the wear-and-tear of daily use.
Checklist Tip:
Apply sealcoating in fall for a strong finish before winter.
Plan for reapplication every 2–3 years, depending on traffic volume.
✅ Step 4: Refresh Parking Lot Striping
For commercial properties, schools, and churches, faded striping is more than an eyesore—it’s a safety hazard. ADA compliance, traffic flow, and pedestrian safety all depend on clear markings.
Checklist Tip:
Re-stripe your lot in fall so lines are visible during shorter daylight hours.
Ensure handicap spaces, fire lanes, and directional arrows are up to code.
✅ Step 5: Improve Drainage Before Winter
Water is asphalt’s number one enemy. Poor drainage leads to standing water, which weakens pavement and accelerates cracking. Fall is the best time to address these issues, especially before the heavy rains and freeze-thaw cycles of winter.
Checklist Tip:
Check for pooling water after rainfall.
Make sure catch basins and drains are free of debris.
Consider grading improvements to redirect water away from paved areas.
✅ Step 6: Schedule Professional Maintenance
DIY fixes can only go so far. Having your pavement evaluated by a professional ensures that nothing is overlooked. At Reid Paving, Inc., our team inspects, repairs, resurfaces, and protects asphalt with proven methods built for Georgia’s climate.
Why Fall Asphalt Maintenance Matters in Georgia
Mild Temperatures: Ideal for repairs and resurfacing.
Pre-Winter Prep: Avoids damage from cold snaps and excess rain.
Cost Savings: Prevents small issues from becoming major repairs.
By taking these steps now, you’ll extend the life of your driveway, parking lot, or roadway—and save thousands in future repairs.
Work with the Local Experts
Since 1977, Reid Paving, Inc. has been the trusted name in asphalt paving across Carroll County, Atlanta, West Georgia, and East Alabama. From driveway resurfacing to commercial parking lot striping, we deliver results that last.
👉 Ready to schedule your fall asphalt maintenance?
📲 Contact Reid Paving today: https://go.reidpaving.com/asphalt
📞 (770) 834-8303
