Asphalt Sealcoating : What are the Weather Conditions for Sealing?

Asphalt sealcoating is a necessary maintenance service that can keep your driveway, parking lot and other paved surfaces in good shape for decades. It's a service that you should hire asphalt sealcoating contractors to do regularly. While it's a relatively straightforward process to seal coat a driveway, many outside factors could impact the effectiveness of sealcoating. The biggest is the weather. In this blog, we'll review the ideal weather conditions for effective sealcoating.

What is Asphalt Sealcoating?

First things first, let's discuss the driveway sealcoating process. Asphalt sealcoating in Buffalo Junction involves spreading a thin asphalt emulsion over every inch of your pavement. Your asphalt sealcoating company will apply the sealer and give it ample time to cure. Once cured, the sealer bonds to the asphalt to create a protective barrier against water penetration, UV damage, chemical spills and more. Regular asphalt sealcoating can significantly prolong the life of your pavement while preventing major damage that requires costly repairs. Most asphalt sealcoating companies recommend getting this service every three to five years for long-term protection.

Why Do Asphalt Sealcoating Contractors Schedule Sealcoating in Buffalo Junction Around the Weather?

There is one important reason why your asphalt sealcoating company will consider weather conditions before setting your appointment. Driveway sealcoating needs time to cure. Depending on the formula used, the product may require 24 to 48 hours to fully cure. During that time, your pavement will be unusable. Weather affects the process in many ways, and manufacturers of sealcoating products create formulas around ideal curing conditions. Failing to consider temperature and weather could result in ineffective bonding, which means less protection and a greater risk of asphalt damage.

What are the Ideal Conditions for Asphalt Sealcoating?

The best conditions for asphalt sealcoating in Buffalo Junction will depend on the product your asphalt sealcoating company uses. There are many formulas available, and each has its unique curing instructions. However, most products do best in warm, dry conditions. Most asphalt sealcoating companies prefer to apply these products when the temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity and zero chance of rain. It's possible to do driveway sealcoating outside these conditions. But, doing so may result in longer cure times and ineffective bonding.

What Happens If I Try to Seal Coat a Driveway in Inclement Weather?

The last thing you want to do is apply sealer on wet, humid or rainy days. Most asphalt sealcoating contractors will not even consider working in those conditions. When you apply sealer in wet weather or during extreme heat or cold, the sealer will not bond to the asphalt. Not only does that ruin the sealer's protective qualities, but it can also create unsightly peeling. The entire point of sealcoating is to protect your pavement, so you want the product to cure fully to remain effective. High humidity levels are a major concern, too. The water content of the sealer your asphalt sealcoating company uses could be as high as 70 percent. In humid or cold conditions, that moisture may not evaporate, resulting in a weak bond. Let E. Wells Paving take care of all your sealcoating needs. We're a licensed paving company based in Buffalo Junction. We serve property owners in and around the area, including Danville, South Boston and beyond. We work hard to deliver great results, and we'll work with you to keep your pavement in good shape for years to come. You can turn to E. Wells Paving for sealcoating, asphalt repair, new asphalt paving, residential driveways and more. Call us today at (434)443-5815 for a free quote. We're also available by email at ewellspaving98@gmail.com or through our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and showing you why we're the best paving contractors in the area!