Can Asphalt Repair Be Done in Rainy Weather?

Spring is a time for enduring rain. After all, nothing will grow if we don’t have sufficient seasonal precipitation. But like most things in life, there are good and bad qualities to rainfall. One such disadvantage is the impact it has on outdoor activity. Not only can rain can put a hold on your picnicking and bike riding plans, it can also delay important outdoor construction and renovation needs. When it comes to needs like asphalt repair, the decision can seem quite conflicting since it’s an industry best practice to repair asphalt as soon as possible, before defects can worsen, and therefore, require more time and money to resolve.

So, when it’s raining outside every day, many proprietors are unsure whether or not they can move forward with outsourcing asphalt repair. If you are asking this same question, continue reading to find out the best options for asphalt repair in rainy weather.

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Indianapolis Commercial Pavement Repair 317-549-1833

Asphalt Repair Climate Conditions

Like any outdoor pursuit, the best weather is the mildest, which means amiable temperatures, minimal wind, and zero precipitation. When it comes to repairing asphalt, the same theory applies. The best climate for asphalt is weather that is not too cold, not too hot, and definitely not wet. You see, asphalt is made from a mixture of aggregate (crushed stone, rock or sand) and bitumen. This combination makes asphalt mix oily, which does not mix well with water.

After being laid, asphalt must cure properly, and cannot do so if it is repelling water. The action of repelling water can cause the asphalt to form cracks and other surface blemishes. The main problem with cracks is that they lead to pothole formation, quickly. After a fresh asphalt job, no one wants to see surface imperfections, let alone pay for asphalt repair only a few short months later.

Exceptions to the Rule

Although the general rule of thumb is that asphalt work CANNOT be done in the rain, nor in wet conditions, there are some exceptions. For instance, very light rain fall is not likely to have a lasting impact on asphalt work as a heavy rainfall would. In most cases, a pavement repair company will simply monitor the weather report and reschedule work during a clear stretch of weather. Also, there are certain types of asphalt mix that can be used when it is cold outside, such as cold-mix and warm-mix asphalt. For climates above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, hot-mix asphalt is the industry standard.

Here are some blogs that can help you understand proper temperature conditions for asphalt work:

Is it Too Cold to Lay Asphalt Pavement?
Can You Apply Pavement Seal Coat in Hot Weather?
The Difference Between Hot Asphalt and Warm Asphalt Mix
Can Hot or Cold Weather Affect the Asphalt Paving Process?

Trusted Commercial Asphalt Repair and Paving in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial asphalt paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

Can Asphalt Be Paved in the Rain?

If you are thinking about repaving your old, asphalt driveway, basketball court, or other paved surface, it is likely that you are filled with questions. This is especially true if you are a beginner paver. The most frequent questions about paving usually involve installation. Interestingly enough, many property owners want to know if asphalt can be paved when it’s raining. Although it is obvious you cannot attempt any type of outdoor work to the best of your abilities when it’s storming outside, compromises can be made depending on the situation. Continue reading to learn more about paving asphalt in the rain.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Paving and Rain

When we use the term, “rain”, it can mean all sorts of things, like heavy rain, light rain, constant rain, scattered rain, sprinkles, and more. Of course, during times of heavy storms, torrential downpours, and continuous precipitation, a paving operation should be shut down completely until the weather clears.

On the other hand, a few sporadic sprinkles may not be enough to stop a pavement job for the entire day. It all depends on the particular circumstances, including laws that govern this type of work, liability, and personal preference. In order for an asphalt surface to be paved well in light rain, the base must be firm, stable, and well-draining aggregate.

Some states have laws and regulations in order that mandate contractors to stop work upon rain or inclement weather, while others leave it up to the contractor’s personal discretion. Overall, the general industry-accepted standard is to NOT PAVE in rain, regardless of its strength, pattern, and persistence.

Here are some reasons why:

🌧 Paving in rain can result in the aggregate mix to cool too quickly. This can make it challenging, or even impossible, to achieve proper compaction for the job.

🌧 Any type of moisture can inhibit the asphalt lifts from bonding together, which can result in improper compaction, as well as decreased stability and longevity.

🌧 Puddles that are covered with hot mix asphalt will turn the underlying water into steam. Steam will cause the asphalt binder to separate from the aggregate, leading to premature surface defects and blemishes, like potholes, crumbling, and cracking.

Light or Sporadic Rain

If it is already raining, it is best to wait another day to start your asphalt paving project. However, if it begins to rain after you have already begun, you should suspend all work until the rain stops. If the rain is heavy, you will need to wait at least 24 hours for the rain to stop and the surfaces to dry. If the rain is light, you may be able to get back to work the same day. If this is the case, be sure to cover all your equipment and supplies with waterproof tarps, construct a vertical-faced construction joint, safely dispose of any material you have in your machine, and be very careful to not let mud or dirt interfere with your work space.

Professional Paving

Asphalt paving is a complex process that requires a certain skill set and inventory of equipment. It is important to hire professional Indianapolis asphalt paving contractors to install, replace, or repair your asphalt pavement. They retain the hands-on experience, as well as the knowledge, skills, equipment, and resources necessary to deliver long lasting results.

Indianapolis Asphalt Paving

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Asphalt Concrete Paving 317-549-1833

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for asphalt pavement installation in Indianapolis you can trust. Our team of paving contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured with decades of experience in the pavement industry. Call 317-549-1833 to request a free estimate, today.