If you’ve been thinking of completing that paving project but are unsure of when to start, now is the best time to do it. The experts at Cassidy Paving highly recommend paving during the warmer months. Since spring is upon us, our paving teams are standing by to get those commercial and residential paving projects underway. Here’s why spring and summer are the best times of the year to pave across the country.
Freezing Temperatures
Although you may have paving needs in the winter months, it is often more difficult to achieve the best outcomes when the ground is cold. According to Asphalt Magazine, “Cold temperatures can make it more difficult for contractors to achieve optimum density of the asphalt material.” Compaction simply cannot happen appropriately for dense-graded asphalt mixtures in freezing temperatures. Also, when pouring the mixture, it is harder to maintain the necessary temperature to compact when the temperatures are cold. Therefore, waiting until you can get optimal compaction will be the best option for future paving needs and your budget. You don’t want to have incomplete or haphazards paving results. Cornell University suggests the following weather guidelines for preferred paving outcomes:
- Night temperatures above 45 degrees
- Pavement temperatures above 70 degrees
- Humidity below 75%
- No chance of rain and calm winds
If repairs must be done before these conditions can be met, you should always opt for the temporary fill until more comprehensive analysis can be done. Cassidy Paving provides these services year round across Massachusetts and we understand that sometimes the most thorough inspection cannot be done until the weather permits.
Potholes and Cracks
During the winter months, water can permeate through the top layers of your pavement. When that water starts to settle and the temperatures are below freezing, it makes the pavement expand. Oftentimes, you will not know what lies beneath those top layers of pavement until it starts to thaw. The expansion will then contract, showing experts where the holes, cracks, and vulnerabilities are that need to be addressed. It is best to wait to see exactly what you’re dealing with in a warmer temperature before disrupting the pavement and subbase with repairs and fixes that may not address the real problem. The best contractors will always suggest waiting for warmer weather to get the most out of your paving services. Cassidy Paving’s expert team is well-versed on the weather cycles and how to make the most of the warm weather.
READ MORE: Three Tips to Prevent Water Damage From Cracked Asphalt
The Time is Now
If you’ve begun noticing cracks and potholes that weren’t there just a few months ago, don’t fret. This is how pavement typically works once it settles in warmer temperatures. The best time to call in the experts is now. Cassidy Paving will be glad to work with you to determine all of the maintenance that should be applied to your parking lot, driveway, or asphalt surfaces. Our goal is to provide you with a thorough service the first time. We always offer free estimates and warranties on all new full-depth work. Don’t wait another day to address those problem areas. Give us a call at 866-978-9788.
