Spring and summer in Indianapolis bring warmer temperatures, heavier rain, and increased traffic on residential and commercial driveways. As winter’s freeze-thaw cycle gives way to spring showers and summer heat, asphalt surfaces need attention to stay strong and smooth. If you want your driveway to last through the seasons, now is the time to prepare.

At Hendricks County Paving, we know the unique challenges that Indianapolis driveways face. From the potholes that form on streets like Meridian Street and Washington Street to the wear and tear from freeze-thaw cycles in neighborhoods like Broad Ripple and Irvington, we take proactive steps to keep your asphalt in top shape.

Here’s how a professional paving company preps driveways for warmer weather.

Key Takeaways

• Indianapolis winters cause cracks and potholes in asphalt driveways, making spring inspections essential for preventing costly repairs.
• Power washing removes road salt, motor oil, and grime that weaken asphalt, especially in tree-heavy areas like Meridian-Kessler.
• Filling cracks, patching potholes, and improving drainage prevent further water damage in flood-prone neighborhoods like Ravenswood.
• Sealcoating protects driveways from UV damage and heat-related cracks, particularly in sun-exposed areas like Geist.
• Regular maintenance, including crack filling and sealcoating, extends driveway lifespan and prevents expensive replacements in historic districts.

Indianapolis Driveway Checklist: 8 Ways Paving Companies Prep for Warm Weather

As warmer weather approaches, asphalt paving companies in Indianapolis take key steps to ensure driveways are built to last. Proper preparation helps prevent cracks, potholes, and premature wear. Discover the eight essential ways paving experts get ready for the season.

1. Inspect for Winter Damage

Indianapolis winters take a heavy toll on asphalt. The constant freeze-thaw cycle leads to cracks and potholes, particularly in areas that experience frequent salt use and snowplow activity, such as neighborhoods near I-465 and high-traffic areas like Castleton and Fountain Square.

In these locations, asphalt paving can be a crucial solution to restore and protect the surface, ensuring long-term durability and reducing future damage.

A professional paving company will perform a thorough inspection to check for:

• Cracks that have expanded due to winter moisture
• Potholes from ice damage
• Fading or discoloration due to road salt and winter debris

Early repairs prevent small cracks from turning into costly resurfacing projects later in the year.

2. Clean Off Debris and Stains

Between fallen leaves, road salt, and motor oil leaks, driveways take a beating during winter. Before any sealing or resurfacing work can begin, a professional paving company will clean the surface using power washing and industrial-grade degreasers.

Cleaning removes:

• Dirt and grime buildup from melting snow
• Oil and grease stains from parked cars
• Leftover salt and chemicals that can weaken asphalt

This is especially important for driveways in tree-heavy areas like Meridian-Kessler and Butler-Tarkington, where falling leaves can stain and trap moisture.

3. Repair Cracks and Potholes

Cracks in your driveway aren’t just unsightly—they allow water to seep in, which can lead to more severe damage over time. Before temperatures rise, professionals will:

• Seal small cracks with rubberized sealant to prevent further expansion.
• Patching using either hot or cold mix asphalt, depending on the weather.
• Regrade areas where water pools to prevent future erosion.

In areas prone to heavy spring rains, such as neighborhoods near White River and Fall Creek, early repairs are essential.

Additionally, asphalt milling can be used to remove the top layer of damaged asphalt, allowing for a smoother surface that better resists water infiltration and reduces the risk of future damage.

4. Improve Drainage to Prevent Water Damage

Spring rain in Indianapolis can overwhelm driveways that don’t drain properly. Asphalt paving experts will check for:

• Standing water that could weaken the asphalt
• Clogged or insufficient drainage systems
• Driveway slopes that cause water to pool instead of running off

For homes in flood-prone areas like Ravenswood or near the White River, proper drainage is essential to keep your driveway intact through the rainy season.

5. Sealcoat for UV and Heat Protection

Indianapolis summers bring intense sun and high humidity, which can cause asphalt to dry out and become brittle. A fresh coat of sealant helps protect your driveway from:

• UV damage that fades and weakens the surface
• Heat-related cracks and softening
• Gasoline and oil spills from parked vehicles

Sealcoating is especially important for driveways in areas with direct sunlight, such as homes in Geist or around Eagle Creek, where tree cover is limited.

6. Reinforce High-Traffic Areas

If your driveway sees a lot of traffic—whether from multiple vehicles or heavy work trucks—it may need reinforcement. Paving companies will assess:

• Load-bearing capacity for large vehicles
• Edge strength to prevent crumbling
• High-wear areas, such as where vehicles turn or park most frequently

This is particularly important for commercial properties along Mass Ave or near Keystone at the Crossing, where business parking lots see constant vehicle movement.

7. Repaint or Re-Stripe Parking Areas

If your driveway or parking lot has faded markings, now is the time to refresh them. A paving company can:

• Re-stripe parking spaces for clear visibility
• Add fresh markings for safety and organization
• Improve curb appeal for residential and commercial properties

This is essential for businesses and multi-family homes in downtown Indianapolis, where parking spaces can become chaotic without proper striping.

8. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your driveway. Paving experts recommend:

• Yearly inspections to catch problems early
• Crack filling every 1-2 years to prevent expansion
• Sealcoating every 3-5 years for long-term durability

For homeowners in historic areas like Lockerbie Square or Old Northside, preventative maintenance helps preserve original asphalt driveways without the need for costly full replacements.

Get Your Driveway Ready for Warmer Weather

Winter may be over, but that doesn’t mean your driveway is in the clear. If you’ve noticed cracks, fading, or pooling water, now is the time to take action. At Hendricks County Paving, we specialize in asphalt maintenance, repairs, and sealcoating to keep your driveway looking and performing its best.

Avoid costly repairs later—schedule your driveway inspection today! Call Hendricks County Paving to get a free estimate and ensure your driveway is ready for Indianapolis’ warmer months.