Applying a seal coating requires the conditions to be just right in order to keep the asphalt from buckling and allow the coating to cure properly. Depending on where you live and the climate of the area, certain seasons will be better suited for scheduling a driveway seal coating.
There are different weather conditions and temperatures that you should be aware of. Precision Asphalt Maintenance works to apply driveway seal coatings in the most suitable conditions so that you see the best results possible. In this blog, we will go more in-depth on how the weather can change the results of the sealant and what weather factors are needed for a proper cure.
What Are Driveway Seal Coatings?
Asphalt that is used on driveways or parking lots sees constant traffic and exposure to UV rays. Applying a coating helps add an extra layer of protection. The seal helps to prevent cracks from temperature expansion and limits it from looking ragged from constant traffic.
Seal coatings can be a mix of asphalt, rocks, sand, cement, latex, or carbon. Putting this on top of the asphalt will give it a longer lifespan and protect it from weather damage. Applying a driveway seal coating at the right time is crucial if you want to get your money’s worth. If the coating doesn’t cure correctly, your asphalt can still see major damage.
Dealing With Humidity
Evaporation is key when it comes to coatings and asphalt application. The seal coating’s main ingredient is water, which needs to evaporate so the asphalt and the coating can stick together. Humidity can lower the rate of evaporation which can mean that your seal doesn’t cure.
If you want your project to be completed on time, you will need to find a day with low humidity. If a contractor works to apply a coating on a humid day and leaves your seal uncured, you may have a major issue on your hands.
Weather Conditions That Facilitate Proper Evaporation
Having mild temperatures during the later fall months in the Northern Hemisphere is the best time to have a seal coating. Evaporation is important for your driveway seal coating, but extreme heat is also bad news. Seal coatings should be applied between 55 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, anything above or below this temperature should be avoided. Waiting too late in the year to hire an asphalt company could set you up for a disastrous project and leave your asphalt exposed to the elements.
A light steady breeze is also preferred to help keep evaporation consistent. A clear day with a small breeze and no forecasted precipitation is the ideal situation for this type of service.
Another common question is how long does the asphalt need to seal before it rains? The preferred drying time is at least 4-8 hours, but if no rain is predicted for the next 24 hours, this is an ideal day. Additionally, if it has recently rained, you will want the asphalt to be completely dry before applying a seal coating.
How Freezing Conditions Affect Asphalt
Temperatures below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) are never opportune for outdoor projects. Freezing outdoor temperatures don’t always reflect the ground temperature, but if the ground remains below freezing for over 24 hours, means you should wait to apply a driveway seal coating.
Cold temperatures can cause the mixture to crack and flake. If you have the coating applied during these conditions, you may find yourself having to have the coating applied again in the spring or summer.
Save yourself time and money by working with a professional Asphalt company like Precision Asphalt Maintenance. Experts that know the right conditions for asphalt will ensure that a seal coating doesn’t need to be redone a few months later.
Seal Your Driveway With Precision Asphalt Maintenance
As a complete service company with many years of experience, you can have peace of mind knowing your asphalt is in good hands. If you are not fully satisfied with the work by the time we are finished, we will do all we can to repair the damages and make it up to your standards.
We have found continual growth over the decades that we have been in business, but continue to offer affordable pricing and unbeatable quality. Interested in starting an asphalt project? Contact Precision Asphalt Maintenance today!
Leave a Reply