Can Asphalt Repair Be Done in Rainy Weather?
Experienced contractors know that prompt asphalt repairs can help prevent the premature failure of the pavement. The longer a break in the pavement exists, the greater the odds are that water will inflict severe damage on the pavement’s supporting foundation. Foundation damage can allow the pavement to sag, form alligator cracks, and develop potholes. To repair a damaged foundation, your contractor will need to remove the existing pavement over the damage, rebuild or repair the foundation, and install new pavement. If there are many areas of foundation damage, it may be cheaper to rebuild your pavement than to make numerous individual repairs. Property owners who understand the urgency of timely repairs sometimes wonder whether a contractor can make the necessary repairs during the rainy season.
Can Asphalt Repair Be Done in Rainy Weather?
Will Contractors Repair Asphalt Pavements in the Rain?
If a heavy rain is falling, reputable contractors will not typically attempt to perform asphalt patching or other repairs. However, a light shower may not make the task impossible. Contractors must evaluate the current weather as well as the forecast for the next few days. If dry weather is expected soon, it may be better to postpone the work until the rain ends. Contractors must also consider the scope of the project and type of repair needed. Obviously, it is easier to find a few hours of dry weather to repair a handful of cracks than it is to find the proper conditions for a massive resurfacing project. However, there are certain emergency situations that may require a temporary repair that can be made under borderline conditions. In general, though, if it is too wet to perform parking lot sealcoating, it is too wet to perform repairs.
What Is the Problem With Making Certain Asphalt Repairs in Rainy Weather?
Any asphalt repair that requires the use of hot mix asphalt is extremely problematic in rainy weather. Hot mix asphalt must be properly compacted before it cools below a specific point. Rain makes the asphalt cool faster, giving the contractor less time to achieve proper compaction. Furthermore, rain falling on asphalt that has not yet cured can cause cracks to form, and the surface appearance will also be affected. In addition, if the ground is saturated, it can be impossible to achieve proper compaction. Therefore, most contractors will not attempt to repair potholes in the rain. Rain can also affect the outcome of crack repairs.
If I Need Asphalt Paving Services During the Rainy Season, What Should I Do?
The best thing to do is to contact a reputable, well-experienced asphalt contractor to assess your pavement. An honest contractor will tell you what is and is not possible, the potential consequences of inaction, and the temporary measures that may help you prevent additional damage. You should never assume that a repair will be impossible, but you should never assume that it will always be possible.
Contact Asphalt Care Services for Assistance
At Asphalt Care Services, we have extensive experience in the maintenance and repair of asphalt pavements in Florida’s unique climate. Our services include asphalt sealcoating, crack and pothole repair, parking lot striping, bollard installation, thermoplastic striping, traffic signage, and speed bump installation. We have an impeccable reputation for quality, service, and integrity. For a free quote, simply complete the online request form, call us at 772-888-2840 or 561-855-1336, or send an email to [email protected].
