Spring and summer are the busiest seasons for asphalt paving contractors because warmer temperatures create ideal conditions for paving. But what if you notice cracks in your driveway during the winter? You may want to fix the damage as soon as possible, but is it actually feasible to pave in cold weather?
Let’s take a closer look.
Cold-Mix Asphalt
Cold-mix asphalt is specifically designed to perform in a wide range of temperatures. However, it is not typically used for full paving projects. Instead, cold-mix asphalt is mainly used for temporary repairs, such as filling cracks and potholes.
One of its limitations is that it’s usually the only option during winter when temperatures are freezing but conditions are dry. In contrast, hot-mix asphalt is used during warmer months because it must remain hot to compact properly and deliver long-lasting results.
How Location Affects Winter Paving
Whether you can pave your driveway in the winter often depends on your geographic location. If temperatures rise above about 55°F for a day or more, it may be possible to use hot-mix asphalt.
For example, in Georgia, winter temperatures sometimes reach the 60s, which can make paving possible during certain periods. This gives contractors in warmer regions more flexibility than those in colder climates.
Timing and Temperature Challenges
Winter paving presents several challenges. Temperature requirements may only be met for a few hours during the day, forcing contractors to work quickly.
Even then, conditions are not ideal. The asphalt may cool too fast, making it difficult to achieve proper compaction. As a result, asphalt installed in winter may not be as durable as pavement installed in spring or summer.
The Problem With Frozen Ground
In regions where freezing temperatures are consistent throughout the winter, asphalt paving may have to wait until warmer weather arrives.
If the ground is frozen, paving is not possible. The surface must also be dry. After a snowstorm, the ground can remain cold and wet for several days, preventing proper installation.
Schedule Your Asphalt Paving Project
Blackjack Paving specializes in asphalt paving in Atlanta, GA. If your driveway or parking lot needs paving during the winter, give us a call to discuss your options and schedule service.
If the situation is urgent, we’ll do our best to accommodate your project during the colder months. With more than three decades of combined experience, our team delivers quality results in a wide range of weather conditions, including asphalt paving in Fairburn, GA.
