Avoid Installing Asphalt in These Weather Conditions
A company that provides service for commercial driveway asphalt paving needs to complete the project during certain types of weather conditions. In some climates, paving halts because of temperature extremes. Wet regions also have more limited time frames for installation since the work cannot be done in rainy conditions. Paving contractors can answer questions about the optimum conditions for scheduling these projects.
Rain
Typically, business driveway asphalt paving is only scheduled for days when the weather forecast does not predict rain. This is easier for contractors than when they plan on paving a road. Driveways can be completed relatively quickly, whereas roads may require many days of work.
Sometimes, though, contractors are working during times when scattered showers are predicted. The supervisor monitors the weather situation, with the crew being ready to tarp the dump truck quickly to protect the hot asphalt inside.
Pavement installation can continue if there are sprinkles or occasional drizzling rain. However, even light rain falling steadily forces the workers to stop. That water interferes with the necessary bonding action of the asphalt. Rainwater also cools the material, which makes it difficult to compact.
Even before asphalt is poured, conditions must be right for the contractor to install a subgrade of sand, gravel, crushed stone, or a blend of sand and gravel. The material must be completely dry before asphalt is placed.
Cold
Cold temperatures also disrupt the process. The crew may be able to do the work, but it is much more difficult because the asphalt becomes too stiff. That quality also interferes with effective compaction.
In addition, once temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the hot material will not pour as smoothly. The resulting surface may be rougher than expected. This may not be a problem for business property owners in certain circumstances, but most will want their driveway to be smooth.
Asphalt installation cannot be done on frozen ground either, even if the temperatures have warmed up. Thus, in colder climates, business owners should plan to have this project completed before winter weather sets in.
Heat
Paving contractors in regions that experience hot weather also must take heat into consideration. Ideally, the work is not done when temperatures are higher than 90 degrees. In contrast to cold weather's effects on the hot asphalt mix, excessively warm temperatures make the material too viscous so it is more like a liquid. That also reduces the quality of the pour and can result in rough surfacing.
To learn more about asphalt paving, contact a company like JW Paving & Sons Inc.