There are many things that can be done in rainy weather that you really should not attempt. For example, it is technically possible to paint the exterior of your home while it is raining, but it will be an exercise in futility. The rain will wash away most of the paint before it dries, and the little bits that remain will be unsightly and be lost quickly due to a compromised adherence. Similarly, asphalt repair during rainy weather may be technically possible in some situations, but no reputable asphalt paving company will want to attempt it. There are just too many things that can go wrong.
Can Asphalt Repair Be Done in Rainy Weather?
Since Asphalt Pavement Is Waterproof, Why Not Repair It in the Rain?
There are two excellent reasons for not attempting to repair asphalt pavement in the rain.
1. It is true that asphalt pavement is waterproof after it has cured properly. The key words in that statement are after it has cured. Before curing has occurred, rain falling on fresh pavement can damage the pavement or impact its longevity. Oil will be forced out of the asphalt, compromising the integrity of the pavement. The surface can develop craters or cracks that negatively affect the pavement’s appearance, but they can also let water leak beneath the pavement and damage the foundation.
2. Most asphalt repair methods require the removal of the existing pavement to install a patch. Removing the old pavement leaves the foundation layers open to the rain while the repair is being completed. Since even a small crack can result in foundation damage, it is easy to imagine how much more damage could be done by an opening of just three or four square feet.
Does the Type of Patch Influence Working During Rainy Weather?
In some cases, the type of patch used to repair asphalt pavement can be a factor in deciding whether to proceed. There are temporary patches that can be installed quickly and do not require exposing the foundation. In a true emergency, you might consider having a surface patch installed; just keep in mind that these patches have very short lives, so you will need to have a permanent repair made within a matter of weeks.
Can Other Types of Parking Lot Maintenance Be Performed in Rainy Weather?
The number of sunny days required for other types of asphalt maintenance will depend on the specific job, its scope, and other weather-related conditions. For example, parking lot sealcoating contractors prefer no rainfall for the 24 hours immediately preceding the application and at least 24 hours following the application. Lot striping and pavement marking can usually be performed if it does not rain the night before or the night of the job. The window needed for crackfilling will depend on the specific material used and the size of the cracks. However, the temperature, humidity, cloud cover, and other factors can lengthen or shorten the times needed.
What If I Am Not Sure About What Asphalt Repairs I Need?
If you have questions, contact MH Greeson. We are a dependable, experienced, respected asphalt company specializing in parking lot maintenance and repair. Our services include asphalt patching and repairs, asphalt sealcoating, lot striping and pavement markings, and the installation of car stops, bollards, and traffic signs. We have built an outstanding reputation by consistently providing high-caliber work at very competitive rates. If you would like for us to prepare a free quote for your work, submit the online form or call our Marietta office at 770-335-2983.
