Do You Know The Weather And Temperature Requirements For Asphalt Installation?
When it comes to laying asphalt, what is the optimum temperature? Outside temperatures, ground temperatures, humidity, rainfall, and other weather factors must all be considered while scheduling asphalt construction or maintenance. Extreme weather can sabotage the curing process of asphalt, and you don't want to trap rainwater beneath fresh asphalt or lay asphalt on wet soil.
When It Rains, Can You Lay Asphalt?
No, you shouldn't build asphalt when it's raining. Bitumen or binders in asphalt are petroleum or oil-based, and oil and water don't mix! Rain, snow, and even high humidity can cause the binders to separate from the aggregate foundation of the asphalt, causing the material to crumble or fall apart.
Even if you can pour and compact asphalt in wet conditions, the material may crack or break, resulting in potholes. Oil from the bitumen may rise to the top, leaving streaks and discoloration on your new asphalt. Spalling, or damage to the surface, is also increased by the oily surface.
In order to keep it compact and avoid splits, cracks, spalling, and potholes, asphalt requires a solid, firm base beneath it. When it rains, damp soil allows the aggregate base of the asphalt to sink, and the earth softens.
Wait until the rain ends and the ground dries before installing new asphalt or making repairs to keep that foundation or base in good shape. If you observe water filling potholes or excessively damp aggregate or soil, dry it out before patching and filling it. Book an asphalt driveway installation NJ to get the service!
When Is the Best Time to Install Asphalt?
The optimal time to pave asphalt is in the spring. The ideal temperature for placing asphalt is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, as this ensures that the atmospheric and ground temperatures are warm enough to keep the asphalt soft and flexible for pouring and compacting.
This isn't to say that the first 70-degree day is ideal for asphalt installation, as springtime can bring a wide range of temperatures across the country. Before arranging your asphalt installation, wait until ground temperatures catch up with surrounding temperatures, which normally happens in late spring.
High humidity can lead to excess moisture in asphalt, causing it to deteriorate. While warm summer weather helps keep asphalt smooth and malleable, it can also mean excessive humidity in the air!
Avoid scheduling asphalt installation on hot summer days for appropriate ambient and ground temperatures and proper humidity levels, especially if you reside in humid climates. Instead, wait until late spring, early summer, or later in the fall, when temperatures and humidity levels begin to drop.
