As temperatures drop, asphalt contractors face one of the biggest threats to their business: freezing weather. A single freezing night can turn remaining water inside your spray lines, pumps, or tanks into ice. Expandable ice leads to cracked pumps, broken valves, and thousands of dollars in sudden repair costs. Taking proper care of your sealcoating equipment before the first freezing night is the best insurance policy for your business.
Step 1: Drain and Flush the Entire System
The first and most critical step in winterization is removing all residual sealer and standing water. Flush your entire system thoroughly with clean water until the discharge runs clear. Make sure to drain all low-lying plumbing points, strainers, filters, and spray wands. Pay special attention to pump casings, as trapped water inside a pump head will almost certainly cause structural cracking once temperatures drop below freezing.
Step 2: Introduce Non-Toxic RV Antifreeze
Draining alone isn't always enough to protect your internal components from residual moisture. To ensure full protection, run non-toxic RV antifreeze through your lines and pump. Pour several gallons of RV antifreeze directly into the intake line, turn on the pump, and recirculate the fluid through the spray hose and wands. This guarantees that any remaining drops of water are mixed with antifreeze, preventing destructive ice expansion.
Step 3: Proper Off-Season Storage
Once flushed and treated, store your hoses, spray guns, and detachable accessories in a dry indoor facility whenever possible. If outdoor storage is your only option, cover tanks and engines with heavy-duty tarps to shield your valuable equipment from harsh winter weather, snow accumulation, and ice build-up. Additionally, remove batteries and place them on trickle chargers to prolong their lifespan through the off-season.
By following these essential winterization steps, you will prevent costly downtime, protect your investment, and ensure your asphalt crew is ready to hit the ground running as soon as spring arrives.