Asphalt professionals are often asked whether it is too cold to apply asphalt sealer in the winter. There is no easy answer to that question. It may be possible on some days and impossible on others.
• What is the ambient temperature on the morning that the sealcoating is to be applied? It needs to be at least 50 degrees and grow warmer throughout the day.
• What is the ground temperature? It should be a minimum of 50 degrees also. If the previous overnight low was under 40 degrees, illness that is a good indication that the ground temperature will not reach the minimum mark the following day.
• What is the possibility of precipitation? Rain can ruin the best sealcoating job. Water, whether it arrives in the form of rain, dew or fog, must be kept away from the sealcoating until it is cured completely.
• Does the job require a second coat? Winter days have fewer hours of sunlight, which is important for drying the sealcoating. With the shorter days, it is almost impossible to get two coats applied on the same day. You will need to close your area to traffic for a longer period, and you may also face a higher price for the job as the contractor must bring his equipment back a second time. If you need to have your parking lot striped after the sealcoating, the application of pavement markings probably cannot start until at least the third day.
• Are there areas that lie in the shade? Shade extends the time that is needed for the sealcoating to dry. Areas that lie on the north side of a structure will also require additional drying time.
• Are there trees that have not shed their leaves overhanging the area? Falling leaves can mar the sealcoating.
Although fall is the best time to have sealcoating done, it can sometimes be completed during the winter. However, a reputable asphalt contractor with experience in your particular location is the best person to determine whether it is feasible for you.
MH Greeson Paving serves customers in most areas of North Georgia, including the Atlanta metropolitan area. We are an asphalt repair and maintenance company offering a range of services, including sealcoating, crack filling, parking lot striping and asphalt repairs. Our dedicated crews have extensive experience and a commitment to quality that allows us to offer affordable rates. You can request a free quote by calling 770-335-2983 or completing our online form.
