Various technicalities are involved in the asphalt paving process, all of which require meticulous attention to detail. In order to get the best results, asphalt paving requires skill, training, knowledge, specialized equipment, high-quality base materials, and most importantly, satisfactory working conditions. This includes good sub-grade, drainage, base, and even climate. That’s right; if environmental conditions are not favorable, the overall quality of an asphalt paving project is at risk. Continue reading to learn how outdoor temperatures affect asphalt paving, and the best time of year to have your asphalt pavement installed.

Ambient Air and Base Temperatures

In order to get the best results for asphalt pavement installation, outdoor temperatures must be warm enough. And not just the temperature of the air, but of the base too. The base includes the lower aggregate, soil, and existing asphalt material. Both cold air and cold ground can deliver inferior asphalt paving results, and for many reasons. If the air or base is too cold, the asphalt will dry too quickly, which reduces compaction, density, and longevity of the pavement. Cooling too quickly causes it to unravel and fall apart, which leaves behind rough and rocky surfaces. An asphalt pavement in this condition cannot thrive long, as it will retain water and continue to atrophy at a rapid pace.

Another reason why cold temperatures can deliver poor paving results are sealcoats. Asphalt requires sealcoating as an added preventative maintenance against wear and tear and to retain its strength and durability over time. And in order for sealcoat to cure properly, it requires both sun and warmth. Base and air temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit are risky conditions for asphalt installation.

For these reasons and more, it is recommended for the outdoor air temperatures to be at least 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and ground temperatures to be at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit, for the best asphalt paving results. Be sure to hire an experienced pavement contractor for reliable asphalt paving services you can trust. They have the resources, training, and experience to deliver quality results in a convenient time-frame.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for professional asphalt repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner, Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed pavement contractors, are happy to answer your questions about asphalt paving installation and repair. We offer a wide range of commercial and industrial paving services, including sealcoating, winter cold patching, pothole repair, and more.