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7 Reasons Why Winter Asphalt Sealcoating Is A Bad Idea

Most understand that asphalt sealcoating is a vital piece of the larger pavement maintenance puzzle. However, most don’t realize this is a service that needs to occur in the warmer months. Winter asphalt sealcoating is never a good idea. In this blog, we’ll cover seven reasons why.

Can Products Used for Asphalt Sealing Freeze?

Absolutely! While it’s not as cold in Dallas as in other parts of the country, we frequently see temperatures dip below freezing. When that happens, Dallas asphalt sealing becomes impossible.

Asphalt sealing companies use asphalt emulsions that typically contain up to 40 percent water by volume. That water can freeze! If it does, it won’t bond to your pavement. Instead, it’ll create a sticky mess once it thaws.

Does Winter Asphalt Sealcoating Lead to Slower Cure Times?

Another reason why wintertime asphalt sealcoating in Dallas is tough is that conditions aren’t conducive to proper curing. Asphalt sealer in Dallas needs time to cure and bond to the pavement. That happens through evaporation. As the moisture content evaporates, the remaining asphalt can adhere to the existing pavement.

The problem is that evaporation becomes more difficult at lower temperatures. As a result, Dallas asphalt sealing can’t cure.

Why Does Asphalt Sealer in Dallas Form a Weaker Bond in the Winter?

Attempting asphalt sealcoating in Dallas during the winter season is usually against manufacturer recommendations because products aren’t formulated to cure and bond in cool temperatures. While formulations vary, most require temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything lower than that, and the asphalt sealer in Dallas simply won’t work as it should.

Why Is Moisture Such a Problem When Sealcoating in the Winter?

Sealcoating in the winter means working against moisture. Regular precipitation and morning dew create a layer of moisture over asphalt surfaces. The problem is that surfaces must be completely dry before asphalt sealing companies can apply anything.

During the winter, it’s a non-stop battle against moisture. A wet environment will simply wash Dallas asphalt sealer away, preventing it from curing and providing protection.

Does Fewer Daylight Hours Pose a Problem for Winter Asphalt Sealcoating?

You might see a warm day above 50 degrees and think that it’s OK to attempt Dallas asphalt sealing. However, you must remember that asphalt sealing products take up to 48 hours to cure! With nighttime temperatures dropping significantly, there’s rarely a stable window for sealcoating in the winter.

How Does Ice Ruin Asphalt Sealing?

Ice doesn’t mix well with asphalt sealcoating in Dallas. Not only does the moisture prevent proper curing and bonding, but ice can actually cause existing cracks to widen. Moisture can flow into voids before freezing at night. If there’s wet sealer on the surface, the product won’t protect the pavement. Instead, it’ll only freeze and flake as the ice damages the asphalt.

Why Do Asphalt Sealing Companies Have Such a Hard Time Scheduling Service Appointments in the Winter?

Ultimately, Dallas asphalt sealing companies can’t schedule service appointments in the winter because there are so few days of ideal conditions. This service takes time to complete and even longer to cure. With conditions changing rapidly, contractors can’t complete the job to the standards you deserve.

HI-TEK Paving Services is a trusted paving, repair, and maintenance contractor that proudly serves clients in Dallas. We’re a company that operates with integrity, treating every client and property with respect. We always aim to do things right, provide support you can trust, and deliver results that count.

We offer a wide range of services to meet your needs, including paving, repairs, sealcoating, overlays, concrete work, and more. Get your free quote today by calling HI-TEK Paving Services at (214) 751-8431. If you prefer, you can also email the team at kevin@hi-tekpaving.com or use our online form to submit your information.