Is asphalt paving possible in winter? Here’s what’s possible.
You might have heard that it is impossible to do some asphalt paving tasks in winter, and you are right. When it is below a certain temperature, it is a bad idea to perform asphalt paving or even repairs. Asphalt pavement or filler material must remain hot enough for long enough when installed. Otherwise, it will simply break down and cost you more in the long run. However, in mild Maryland winters, these winter asphalt paving services are still possible.
Reliable Winter Asphalt Paving Services in Maryland
Asphalt Paving
Asphalt paving comes in three forms: hot mix, warm mix, and cold mix, also known as cold patch asphalt. Hot mix asphalt is the traditional material, but the latter two make it possible to pave or make repairs in temperatures colder than 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, deciding which mix to use also depends on the pavement’s thickness. The minimum ambient temperature for installing warm mix asphalt could be 40 or 50 degrees, depending on its thickness. Cold mix asphalt is best for repairs rather than new installations, but it can work even at Maryland’s coldest temperatures.
Asphalt Crack Filling
It is generally thought that you cannot perform asphalt crack filling in cold weather, but it is possible to work around the cold ambient temperature by heating up the pavement with a hot air lance or another applicable device to at least 40 degrees beforehand. Given that Maryland winters can have plenty of days above 40 degrees, asphalt crack filling in winter should not be too hard to achieve.
Asphalt Pothole Filling
The same applies to asphalt pothole filling. If the weather is above 50 degrees, then pretty much any form of asphalt paving services is doable. Cold patch would be the go-to product for asphalt pothole filling in the deep winter. Of course, it’s best to look at the weather forecast to see if any unseasonably warm days are approaching and schedule then to use warm or hot asphalt mix.
Asphalt Sealcoating
Once again, you cannot do sealcoating properly unless it is at least 50 degrees outside. The only way around it is to choose a sunny day and heat up the pavement to an appropriate temperature before applying. Plan to finish the job while there is still plenty of daylight left so it can dry as fast as possible.
Planning for Upcoming Asphalt Paving Projects
Rather than trying to spot a warm day among cold ones this winter, you can also take this time to plan for and schedule upcoming projects in spring and summer. Reliable Contracting is ready to help your business or municipality get it done.
ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING
Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project that you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.