November represents the final window for completing fall maintenance work before sustained winter weather arrives and ground freezing makes certain repair operations impossible. Use this month to ensure all critical winter preparation tasks are completed.
Final Pre-Winter Inspection
Conduct a comprehensive November inspection:
- Verify all cracks have been sealed
- Confirm all potholes and major damage have been repaired
- Check that sealcoating (if applied) has fully cured
- Ensure drainage systems are clear and functional
- Assess overall pavement condition one final time
Essential November Tasks
Complete these critical tasks before winter arrives:
- Clear All Debris: Remove fallen leaves, sticks, and organic matter that could trap moisture
- Final Drainage Check: Ensure all drains, gutters, and drainage channels are clear
- Trim Vegetation: Cut back grass and plants from pavement edges
- Stockpile Supplies: Have cold-patch asphalt available for emergency winter repairs
- Document Condition: Take final photos for spring comparison
Drainage System Maintenance
Proper drainage is critical for preventing winter damage. In November:
- Clear all catch basins and storm drains one final time
- Remove any remaining leaves from gutters and downspouts
- Verify that water flows properly away from pavement
- Fix any drainage problems that could cause winter issues
- Ensure downspouts direct water away from asphalt surfaces
Emergency Repair Preparation
Prepare for potential winter emergencies:
- Stockpile cold-patch asphalt for emergency pothole repairs
- Have contact information for emergency repair contractors
- Keep snow removal equipment ready and in good condition
- Plan snow removal routes that protect pavement
- Ensure you have proper snow removal tools (plastic shovels, etc.)
Crack Sealing Verification
Verify that all crack sealing work has been completed and cured:
- Check that no new cracks have appeared since September
- Ensure all previously sealed cracks remain intact
- Address any cracks that may have been missed
- Verify crack sealant has fully cured before freezing weather
All crack sealing must be complete before sustained below-freezing temperatures arrive. Water that enters unsealed cracks will freeze and expand, causing damage throughout winter.
Snow Removal Equipment Preparation
Prepare your snow removal equipment to minimize pavement damage:
- Use plastic-edged shovels instead of metal
- Ensure snowplow blades are adjusted to proper height (½ inch above asphalt)
- Consider rubber or polyurethane plow edges
- Have salt or deicing products ready (use sparingly)
- Plan removal routes that protect edges and sensitive areas
Final Cleaning and Maintenance
Complete final surface maintenance:
- Sweep or blow all debris from pavement surfaces
- Remove any remaining leaves or organic matter
- Clean oil stains that could worsen over winter
- Ensure surfaces are ready for winter conditions
Winter Monitoring Plan
Establish a plan for monitoring your pavement through winter:
- Schedule periodic inspections during warmer winter days
- Document any new damage that develops
- Plan for emergency repairs when necessary
- Monitor drainage after snow melts
- Track freeze-thaw cycles and their impact
Budget Planning for Spring
Use November to plan your spring maintenance budget. Based on your fall inspection, estimate costs for:
- Spring pothole repairs
- Crack sealing (if not completed in fall)
- Sealcoating (if not done in fall)
- Any drainage improvements needed
- Line striping if needed
The Importance of November Preparation
Completing all November preparation tasks significantly reduces winter damage. Properties that receive proper fall maintenance experience far less spring damage than those that don't. The investment in November preparation pays dividends in reduced spring repair costs.
At Michelson's Sealcoating, we help property owners complete all essential November preparation tasks. Our team can conduct final inspections, complete any remaining repairs, and ensure your pavement is ready for winter. Contact us to schedule your final winter preparation.