Cold weather can wreak havoc on asphalt pavements, especially those that have not been properly winterized. The damage resulting from unrepaired cracks and neglected oil spills can be exacerbated by repeated freezing and thawing cycles. Some deicing chemicals can cause additional damage. The best way to ensure that your asphalt pavement is in the best condition possible when spring arrives is through a professional asphalt maintenance program that will prepare your pavement for harsh winter weather. Virtually all paving companies recommend that you include sealcoating as part of this program.
Asphalt Sealcoating & Winter Preparation
Why Is Sealcoating Important When Preparing Asphalt Pavement for Winter Weather?
When sealcoating cures, it forms a hard shell that helps protect against water penetration, corrosive chemicals and automotive fluids. However, it is equally important to remember that reputable asphalt sealcoating contractors know that they will need to clean the pavement and repair cracks if the job is to be successful. Therefore, most asphalt contractors will be able to completely winterize your pavement as part of the sealcoating job. If a contractor quotes you a ridiculously low price, he is probably not planning to repair the cracks or remove oil spills, so be sure to compare all bids carefully. Paving contractors who apply sealant over dirty or damaged pavement may leave their clients facing large, unnecessary repair bills in the spring.
Is It Possible to Apply Sealcoating in the Fall?
Although many paving contractors prefer to apply sealcoating during the spring and summer months, fall is also a good time for sealcoating in the Kansas City area. Naturally, the weather needs to be cooperative.
• Ground and air temperatures should be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit when the sealant is applied and for the first 24 hours thereafter. If there are shaded areas, the minimum temperature may need to be higher.
• Many asphalt contractors are reluctant to apply sealcoating on cloudy days. This is especially true if the humidity level is high or the temperature is hovering just above the acceptable minimum.
• Rain can ruin uncured sealcoating. The weather forecast should not include the possibility of any precipitation for at least the first 24 hours of the sealant’s life.
Sealcoating contractors must also consider a number of other factors.
• How early in the day can he begin the work? Starting early ensures that the sealer will receive the hours of sunlight it needs to cure properly.
• How difficult will it be to control traffic? If it is possible to close the entire area to traffic, the contractor can complete the work faster. However, sealcoating and paving contractors understand that this is not always possible, so they will work with you to create a plan that minimizes the disruption.
• Are there additives that might help? Asphalt contractors frequently incorporate additives in their sealcoating mixes. For example, there are additives that expedite the curing process; your contractor may choose one of these additives to help compensate for dense shade, high humidity or borderline temperatures.
All Pro Asphalt is a paving contractor based in Kansas City, MO. We specialize in all areas of asphalt maintenance, including asphalt sealcoating, crack repair, infrared asphalt restoration and asphalt paving. We also offer parking lot striping and concrete work. Our service areas include many locations in Kansas and Missouri. Since launching our business, we have concentrated on providing exceptional workmanship by using quality materials and the latest technologies. If you would like to receive a free quote, complete the online form or call 816-249-6800.
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