5 Reasons Why Winter Asphalt Sealcoating Is A Bad Idea
Winter asphalt sealcoating is not something you see very often in Atlanta. Asphalt sealcoating companies are busiest during spring and summer, but once winter arrives, most stop providing service entirely. There are several reasons for that. While it is possible to apply asphalt sealer during the winter months, here are five reasons why it’s a bad idea.
What Makes Sealcoating in the Winter Nearly Impossible?
Ultimately, sealcoating in the winter is not possible in Atlanta and the surrounding communities. Why? Contractors simply can’t apply asphalt sealer in Atlanta because the air and ground temperatures are too low.
In the thick of winter, Atlanta experiences average lows in the 30s. Unfortunately, most sealer manufacturers don’t recommend applying their products unless temperatures are at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit and rising. The asphalt sealer products contractors use simply aren’t formulated to dry, cure, and bond to asphalt in those cooler conditions.
As a result, successful asphalt sealing isn’t possible. Keep in mind that both air and ground temperatures must be above that 50-degree threshold. Because there can be a 20-degree difference between pavement and ambient air temperatures, having a stable window of suitable conditions for applying asphalt sealer in Atlanta is next to impossible.
Why Does Winter Asphalt Sealcoating Take So Long to Cure?
Another problem with winter Atlanta asphalt sealing is the lengthy cure times.
You see, asphalt sealer cures via evaporation. After asphalt sealing companies apply the product to your pavement, the moisture slowly evaporates. The protective asphalt emulsion stays behind.
However, during winter, low temperatures and higher relative humidity slow evaporation rates. Asphalt sealer in Atlanta struggles to cure. Not only does it take longer in the winter, but conditions might be so poor that the asphalt sealer fails to cure at all. The result is a sticky mess with zero protection for your pavement.
Does Asphalt Sealer in Atlanta Fail to Bond to Pavement During the Late Season?
We’ve already mentioned how low temperatures prevent asphalt sealcoating companies from providing service. But what if they ignored manufacturer recommendations and applied asphalt sealer anyway?
Unfortunately, the sealer won’t bond to your pavement. Instead, it might freeze in place. The cool temperature will prevent the product from curing properly. Thus, it won’t bond to your pavement. If it does cure and bond, there’s a high chance that it’ll flake away.
The lack of bonding power results in poor longevity. While you could take the risk and apply sealcoating in the winter, you’ll likely have to reapply anyway once spring arrives.
How Does Moisture Affect Sealcoating?
Moisture is another major problem for Atlanta asphalt sealing in the winter. Moisture in the air will slow or stop evaporation. But that’s not all. During winter, dew, ice, and precipitation often form a thin layer of water on asphalt surfaces.
That moisture prevents asphalt sealing companies from applying anything to your pavement. The water will wash the asphalt sealer away. For the best results, your pavement must be bone dry for at least a day before application. With wintertime dew and precipitation, that’s impossible.
Is It Challenging for Asphalt Sealing Companies to Schedule Appointments in the Winter?
Asphalt sealing contractors struggle to even find opportunities to schedule service appointments. The best asphalt sealing companies will keep a close eye on the weather forecast, considering all the factors that could negatively impact their service. With low temperatures, high humidity, and tons of moisture, there are few windows of stable weather.
You must also consider how long it takes for asphalt sealing to cure. Even in ideal conditions, it takes 24 to 48 hours. Conditions must be warm and dry for the entire curing period. With temperatures often dropping to freezing at night during winter, Mother Nature doesn’t provide many opportunities for successful asphalt sealing.
At The Surface Masters, it’s our mission to provide solutions for all your paving, repair, and maintenance needs. We have many years of experience with Atlanta asphalt sealing. Our team understands the complexities of the job and works hard to guarantee optimal protection and beautiful results every time. In addition to sealcoating, The Surface Masters offers asphalt paving, repairs, milling and reclamation, concrete curbing, pavement markings, resurfacing, and more.
Give us a call to discuss your needs in greater detail. You can reach The Surface Masters at (770) 685-6695, use our online form, or email Info@TheSurfaceMasters.com.
