Is it Too Cold to Lay Asphalt Pavement?

When it comes to laying asphalt pavement, whether to repair potholes or build a brand new parking lot, the weather is just one variable that influences the success of the project. However, it is still a very important one, especially in terms of climate. So, is it too cold outside this time of year to have any asphalt work performed? Continue reading to learn which factors you might have to consider when determining whether or not it’s too cold to lay asphalt pavement.

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Indianapolis Asphalt Paving 317-549-1833

Paving Asphalt in Winter

Asphalt mix cools faster in colder temperatures than it does in warmer ones. This is the main concern when performing asphalt work in the winter. Paving contractors must be able to mix and pour the asphalt before it cools so they can get it properly formed and compacted. Here are the top factors to consider when deciding if its too cold to pave:

☑ Ground Temperature

One of the chief factors to determining whether or not its too cold to pave is ground temperature. If the ground temperatures are too cold, it is not compatible for asphalt work. The colder the ground temperatures are, the quicker asphalt mix loses heat, thus presenting a challenging for stabilization.

☑ Ambient Temperature

Along with ground temperatures, ambient temperatures play a large role in the compatibility of asphalt work. The general rule of thumb is 50 degrees. But even if the ambient temperature is at least 50 degrees on the day of the project, it is equally important to ensure it is not too windy.

☑ Thickness of Pavement

The thickness of the final asphalt surface will have a major influence on whether or not it is too cold to pave. As mentioned, the colder the temperatures are, the faster asphalt mix will cool, which creates problems with compaction and stability. Well, if your final asphalt surface specifications are intended to be a thin, the pavement will cool faster on a cold day, and therefore, potentially pose some challenges.

☑ Sun Strength and Exposure

The term solar radiant flux is a common one in the asphalt construction industry. You see, the sun has a great effect on the process of asphalt paving. So, in winter, asphalt contractors prefer sunnier days since the heat of the natural sun prevents asphalt from cooling too fast.

When to Have Commercial Asphalt Repaired or Paved

The best times of year to have commercial asphalt pavements repaired or lain is between late spring and early fall. During these times, precipitation levels are lower and climates are milder. The most compatible temperatures for asphalt paving range between 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Commercial Asphalt Paving Contractors in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial asphalt paving services 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.