Three Things You Need to Know About Asphalt and Cold Weather

Severe weather does a number on driveways, roads, and parking lots — but we need to build them anyway. Our experts on fog seal in Clermont, FL, remind you that when you choose to install asphalt in a cold climate, understand how weather affects asphalt so you can make wise, informed choices and also feel good about them.

It's a Good Alternative for Cold Climates

Especially compared to concrete, asphalt is an excellent choice for colder climates. Concrete is more easily damaged by quick expansion and contraction and is prone to frost heaves. While asphalt is not immune to the effects of cold temperatures, concrete deteriorates much more quickly. In addition, antifreeze and salt must be spread across roads, driveways, and other surfaces in cold climates to help snow and ice melt quickly. Concrete deteriorates under such substances, but asphalt is less sensitive, especially if treated to withstand weather damage. Finally, asphalt is good at absorbing heat from the sun. Therefore, it is naturally able to melt snow and ice quickly.

Certain Types Are Better for Wet Climates

Asphalt is less inclined to expand and contract than concrete, but it will still contract at low temperatures. This can cause the asphalt to crack. That's why hot-mix asphalt was designed. It is specifically made to take on the gymnastics of freezing and thawing again and again. Additionally, it is extra resilient to salt. Using hot-mix asphalt is a good idea in cold climates because it will eliminate much of the damage that harsh temperatures inflict on asphalt. Another problem in cold climates is precipitation. Hail, snow, and rain in large amounts will damage any surface, no matter how durable. Luckily, contractors know to use porous or permeable asphalt in wet climates. Water can drain through the pavement and down to the soil below. This prevents flooding and subsequent problems.

It's Challenging to Install In Cold Weather, but Not Inconceivable

Because asphalt does contract in cold temperatures, it's not as easy to handle in the winter. Since it won't be at equilibrium, any repairs risk integrity. However, repairs can't always wait for warmer months. Experienced crews know how asphalt reacts in the cold and how to manage that. They know that asphalt hardens much quicker in cold temperatures. This chill factor is determined by air temperature, wind speed, and surface temperature. They'll also understand what conditions are a no-go. For instance, you can't pave on frozen ground. Even though asphalt mixtures are kept at very high temperatures, a cold surface will compromise how that hot mixture flows onto the surface. If this step is flubbed, the resulting asphalt will be prone to breaking down, resulting in many potholes and cracks. Dry weather conditions are also necessary. Just like frozen ground, cold and wet soil will compromise the quality and integrity of the asphalt. If the ground is neither frozen nor wet, a crew can quickly install asphalt before the weather grows harsher. A team that regularly works in cold climates will likely be accustomed to doing the job quickly.

These are a few things you need to know about asphalt and cold weather. Contact us today if you need a fog seal in Clermont, FL. We want to be your paving contractor.