What Are The Best Conditions For Parking Lot Sealcoating Contractors In Colder Weather

What Are The Best Conditions For Parking Lot Sealcoating Contractors In Colder Weather

What Are The Best Conditions For Parking Lot Sealcoating Contractors In Colder WeatherWhat Are The Best Conditions For Parking Lot Sealcoating Contractors In Colder Weather

Asphalt sealcoating is key to keeping your parking lot well-protected throughout the years. Sealcoating shields asphalt paving from weather, wear, chemicals and more, preventing premature oxidation that could result in damage. Parking lot sealcoating contractors typically recommend getting this service in the warmer months. But what if your pavement needs attention during the winter?

Why Do Lot Sealcoating Contractors Track Weather Conditions?

Before we get into ideal conditions for wintertime sealcoating, let’s review why weather matters at all. Asphalt sealcoating is a multistep process that involves applying thin layers of specialty sealers to your entire pavement. Asphalt sealing products vary in quality and formulation, but most are asphalt emulsions that contain a large amount of water. The final mix can be as much as 70 percent water by volume.

After sealcoating contractors in Reno apply the product to the pavement, they leave it to cure for 24 to 48 hours. During that time, the water in the formula slowly evaporates, leaving behind a protective barrier of asphalt that can shield your parking lot for several years.

Smooth and efficient evaporation is critical to the curing process. Because evaporation rates change based on weather conditions, sealcoating contractors must pay attention to the forecast. The weather must be warm and dry throughout the application and curing process for optimal results.

Can Sealcoating Contractors Provide Service in the Winter?

Winters in Reno can be tough, and the area can receive many inches of snow throughout the winter season. But despite all that, sealcoating contractors in Reno can provide this all-important service if conditions are favorable. Most prefer to complete asphalt sealing projects in the early winter before the coldest temperatures arrive. However, a good sealcoating contractor will monitor the forecast to ensure top-quality results throughout the season.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Asphalt Sealcoating?

The temperature threshold for parking lot sealcoating is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Asphalt sealing product manufacturers may have specific recommendations based on the formula, but the 50-degree mark is the norm.

If ground and ambient air temperatures are below 50 degrees, sealers can’t cure properly. Evaporation will slow down significantly as the product struggles to bond with the asphalt. Should temperatures plummet below freezing, the mixture could freeze entirely. That would result in quick separation and peeling. To ensure that the sealer forms a tight bond with your parking lot pavement, your sealcoating contractor should only tackle the job if there are several days of temperatures above 50 degrees.

What Other Factors Can Affect Seal Coating?

It’s not just low temperatures that impact parking lot sealcoating. Humidity and wind also come into play. High humidity levels above 50 percent severely impede evaporation, making it difficult for the sealer to cure. Meanwhile, excessive winds will blow the sealer around, potentially disrupting the curing process.

In addition to temperatures, a reputable sealcoating contractor will pay attention to relative humidity and wind velocity. They’ll also consider sun exposure and the risk of precipitation to determine if asphalt sealcoating is viable in rougher winter conditions.

Let Affordable Striping & Sealing handle all your sealcoating needs. We understand the complexities of sealcoating and the role of the weather in its success. Our team is always mindful of the forecast and will only perform this service when favorable conditions ensure long-lasting protection for your parking lot. We strive to provide the best service possible, no matter how extensive your needs seem. In addition to sealcoating, you can turn to us for crack repair, parking lot maintenance, striping and more.

We’re eager to show you why we’re among the most trusted sealcoating contractors in Reno. Call Affordable Striping & Sealing today at (775)825-1101 for a free project quote. You can also email RenoOffice@affordablestriping.com or use our contact form to get in touch.