Are you wondering when you should sealcoat your asphalt driveway or parking lot? Choosing the right season and weather conditions makes a big difference in a quality sealcoating job that maximizes durability. Here's a guide on picking the best timeframe.

When Temperatures Are Moderate

According to Family Handyman, your driveway needs at least two days of dry weather before it can be sealed. Plus, Family Handyman reports that the temperature outside must be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the sealcoating process and throughout the night afterward. If it's too cold out, the asphalt sealcoating won't adhere properly and could flake off prematurely. If the temperature is too warm, the sealcoat can bake before the material fully adheres to the pavement.

Moderate temperatures in spring through fall provide a perfect climate. Shoot for a time between April and June or between September and November; this avoids the extreme temperatures of summer or winter. The spring months allow cured sealcoating to protect your driveway through the summer. Fall gives a fresh protective barrier going into the winter and the following spring thaw.

When Rain Isn't Expected

Making sure no rain or snow is headed your way for proper drying time is also crucial for sealcoating success. Since moisture severely inhibits proper curing, the professionals you hire will want to carefully watch the weather forecast and only plan to sealcoat if several rain-free days are predicted. Rescheduling work if a surprise shower pops up prevents needing to start over completely once the asphalt dries again.

Also, allowing a buffered window of more than 24 hours guards against slow curing from high humidity or cooler nights. Careful attention to weather helps avoid disappointment from washed-out sealcoating efforts.

When There Isn't Frozen Ground

In addition to the right ambient temperature and no rain, asphalt must be ice-free when applying liquid sealcoating. Any underlying frost or frozen moisture trapped in the pavement will cause premature cracking and peeling as it expands. Thawing the asphalt driveway and parking lot surfaces indicates conditions are suitable for good penetration.

Paying attention to weather forecasts and planning accordingly gives longer-lasting results from refreshed protection on your driveway or parking lot. Moving forward under suitable conditions prevents wasted time and ensures the asphalt sealcoating bonds and cures properly to defend against damage. If you're ready to have asphalt sealcoating completed, call our team at Fuller & Sons Blacktop Paving for an estimate!