Church Parking Lot Maintenance Checklist for Ontario Winters

Ontario winters are tough on asphalt—especially for church parking lots that sit unused during the week and see heavy traffic on weekends. Without proper preparation, freeze-thaw damage can shorten the life of your pavement and create safety risks.

This checklist helps churches take a proactive, stewardship-focused approach before winter sets in.

Why Winter Is So Hard on Asphalt

Water enters small cracks, freezes, expands, and breaks the asphalt apart. Add:

• Road salt
• Snowplow abrasion
• Temperature swings

…and minor issues quickly become structural damage.

Pre-Winter Maintenance Checklist

1. Inspect for Cracks

Seal cracks before winter to prevent water infiltration.

2. Repair Drainage Issues

Standing water accelerates freeze-thaw cycles.

3. Evaluate Previous Seal Coating

Worn seal coating leaves asphalt exposed to moisture and salt.

4. Refresh Line Striping (if needed)

Visibility matters when snowbanks reduce sightlines.

Winter Snow & Ice Management Tips

• Avoid metal plow blades directly on asphalt
• Use salt responsibly to minimize chemical damage
• Clear snow promptly to reduce refreezing

Post-Winter Assessment (Early Spring)

After thaw:

• Look for new cracks or potholes
• Document damage for planning
• Schedule repairs early before spring rains

Why Churches Benefit from Planned Maintenance

Emergency repairs are disruptive and expensive. Planned maintenance:

• Supports safety for congregants
• Reduces long-term costs
• Aligns with stewardship values