Asphalt is a durable and versatile way to pave your driveway and walkways. It’s able to withstand a broad range of temperatures. This makes it an ideal product to use for Maryland’s unpredictable seasons. Unlike concrete, asphalt is able to expand and contract with minimal damage. This makes it a cost-effective long-term solution.
As the cold temps begin to make their presence known here in Maryland, you may be wondering what the best time of year to lay asphalt is. You want to make your investment last as long as it can. There are a right and a wrong time of year to lay down your new asphalt driveway.
Ideal Paving Temperature
The ideal temperature for hot paving asphalt is between 70 and 90 degrees ambient (air) temperature. In Maryland, that could be any season. But generally, the best time to install your driveway is in late spring, early summer, or early fall.
An experienced professional company like 410 Asphalt in Gambrills, Maryland can lay asphalt in temperatures as low as 50 or 60 degrees, though it’s not ideal. The cooler the temperatures, the less malleable the product is. It could also unravel over time, due to not binding properly in the lower temps. It can also get brittle, which can cause cracks, chips, and other damage.
On the other hand, high temperatures can also produce a less-than-perfect driveway. The material could slough or melt in temperatures above 90 degrees. If it’s too hot outside, the asphalt may not cure properly, causing it to unravel, crack, or chip, just like in cold temperatures.
Whether installing a new driveway or overlaying your existing driveway, both ground and air temperatures should be between 60 and 90 degrees. Ideally, temperatures should be around the 70-degree mark.
Ideal Paving Conditions
Ambient and ground temperatures aren’t the only conditions to consider when scheduling your driveway installation. Wind and precipitation also need to be factored in.
Even during warmer months, heavy rain and winds can cool both ambient and ground temperatures. As the asphalt falls from the truck onto the ground, both wind and rain can also cool down the material before it gets to its final destination.
Professionals in the industry understand all the intricacies of laying driveways at the best time. They know this creates a smooth and long-lasting result you can enjoy for years. Weather conditions are followed closely. If it’s decided that the conditions aren’t ideal, the company laying your driveway should reschedule for another day.
Contact 410 Asphalt for Your Paving Needs
Whether you need an overlay on your existing driveway or are looking to install a new asphalt driveway, call us at 410-ASPHALT (410-277-4258) for an estimate today. Contact us today, and we’ll send one of our field personnel out to provide a free estimate. Then we’ll get you scheduled with the ideal temperatures in mind.
Though you may have to wait until winter ends, you’ll know the driveway is done at the best time of year, so it will last for years to come.
