When a new asphalt surface is paved, several factors are taken into account, and one of the critical factors is the temperature of the asphalt mix. Professional asphalt contractors know that asphalt surfaces should not be paved in extreme temperatures because a small mistake can ruin the durability of the paved surface. When the asphalt temperature is not right, the asphalt mixture doesn’t cool and harden properly, and it can lead to consistency issues, weak spots, water infiltration problems, etc. When not done correctly, one might have to replace the asphalt sooner, which can add a financial burden to the owner. The right asphalt temperature is not just about the ambient temperature but also about the right temperature of asphalt when mixing, pouring, and paving the asphalt surfaces.
There are three vital temperatures that asphalt contractors must monitor for the best application of asphalt. Let’s discuss them briefly here.
Asphalt Mixture Temperature:
The hot-mix asphalt is usually prepared off-site and is delivered at the job location in a special vehicle at a high temperature of around 275–300-degree Fahrenheit. The temperature of the asphalt mixture must not fall below 185 degrees as it will not allow proper spreading of the asphalt. When the right temperature is not maintained, the mixture will become too rigid and not set properly on the paved surface.
Ambient Temperature:
The temperature of the surroundings where the asphalt needs to be paved matters too. For a proper application of the asphalt mix, the ambient temperature must be higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The wind conditions of the place matter, too, as windy weather can make the asphalt mix temperature drop sooner. The temperature should ideally rise rather than fall over the next couple of days. That is why professional asphalt contractors check the weather forecast and schedule the paving work when the weather conditions are suitable for paving. When freshly laid asphalt cools quickly, it can lead to density issues.
Ground Temperature:
The ground temperature should be at least 50 F for proper application of asphalt. Contractors use an infrared thermometer to ascertain the ground temperature and traditional temperature probes are not that effective in ascertaining ground temperature. Again, the ground temperature must stay above 50 F for at least a week for proper application of asphalt; otherwise, the paved surface can develop weak pockets that can allow water seepage.
Inexperienced asphalt contractors often miss out on these important details and deliver substandard work. For the best result in asphalt paving, it is best to have the ambient temperature between 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for asphalt installation in Annapolis, check out Premier Paving in MD. With over 30 years of experience in this field, they have delivered several high-quality paving projects. They are among the best asphalt contractors in Maryland with quality work and competitive pricing. Call them today to discuss your paving project and get a free quote.