If you were to ask a group of sealcoating contractors what they consider perfect sealcoating weather, they would likely tell you that it would be a day on which the temperature was 70 degrees, the relative humidity was less than 60 percent, the overnight low would remain above 50 degrees and there was not a cloud in the sky. In North Georgia, however, an asphalt sealcoating contractor quickly learns that perfect days for sealcoating are few and far between. Instead, sealcoating professionals must acquire the skills needed to compensate for the lack of ideal conditions.
Asphalt Sealcoating: Can It Be Too Hot To Seal?
Manufacturers of sealcoating products recommend against applying their sealants once the temperature breaks 90 degrees. However, the temperature is only one factor that sealcoating contractors must consider when deciding whether to apply sealcoating. The relative humidity is equally important. Since the relative humidity in North Georgia averages between 70 and 75 percent during the summer months, this can increase the complexity of sealcoating on a hot day.
The Impact of Heat and Humidity on Sealcoating
Sealcoating needs to lose its water content to cure. The higher the humidity level, the more difficult it will be for the water to evaporate. When the air is already laden with moisture, there is no place for the evaporating water to go. The curing process stalls, resulting in a longer drying time for the sealant.
However, the water cannot evaporate too quickly. If the water evaporates as soon as the sealant touches a hot pavement, the sealcoating will never have a chance to form an adequate bond with the pavement. If the water evaporates too quickly from the top layer of sealant, the underlying sealant will be trapped in its moist condition. Improper evaporation can lead to the premature failure of the sealcoating.
A Highly Experienced Sealcoating Contractor Can Meet the Challenges
Although it is more challenging to apply sealants when the weather is hot and humid, experienced sealcoating and paving contractors can employ various measures to ensure success. Depending on the exact mix of temperature, humidity and wind, they may choose a different aggregate for the mix, for example, or incorporate an additive. They may choose to apply sealcoating at certain times of the day or use a technique to cool the pavement just prior to the application. Only your sealcoating contractor can advise whether it is indeed too hot to apply a sealant, so choose a credible paving company and trust his judgment.
Finding a Credible Contractor
Finding a reliable contractor to handle your sealcoating is essential if the work is to be performed during hot weather. You can ask colleagues and friends for recommendations, but you should interview potential contractors yourself. Ask the contractor to provide you with references; call each reference to determine whether the contractor provided quality work, an appropriate level of communication and adequate customer service. Ask for a detailed, written quote, and when you receive your contract, make sure that there are no discrepancies between the quote and the contract.
However, if you want to make your selection of a contractor easier, you can simply contact us. MH Greeson Paving is an asphalt maintenance company based in Marietta, GA with an outstanding reputation and impeccable references. We believe in earning your business by delivering work that looks better and lasts longer. To request a free quote, call (770) 335-2983 or submit the handy online form.
