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.