Challenges with Paving in the Rain
Overview of Challenges with Paving in the Rain
While asphalt paving may be done in misty conditions or light rain, it is not advisable to install a new surface or repair existing paving during a heavy downpour. The main challenges with paving in the rain involve formation of cracks and potholes that require major repairs and early replacement expenses.
The experts at American Asphalt explain why it is not advisable to undertake paving installation and repair when it is raining or when the ground is wet.
- Cracks forming: Excessive amounts of water in the aggregate (thick base of crushed rock) and underlying soil can cause compaction and weight bearing issues. Steady downpours result in puddles that cool the hot asphalt very fast and prevent proper bonding. A wet base supports less weight; hence, it is more prone to cracking. It could result in the pavement or road caving in and creating serious safety issues.
- Potholes emerging: Almost all the asphalt materials used today come from petroleum crude oil. These oils help repel water which is one of asphalt’s biggest enemies. Laying an asphalt surface in the heavy rain will compromise the quality of paving material and result in potholes within a short time of the new installation.
- Hurried job: Quality materials and properly laid asphalt creates attractive and long lasting paved surfaces. Your asphalt contractor should consider weather conditions carefully before starting work. In the event of sudden rain, proper precautions should be in place to protect your asphalt surfaces. In addition to laying out tarps to prevent water penetration, it is also important to avoid tracking mud and dirt on to the project area. The wet surface will absorb the mud and this will interfere with surface quality and the bonding process.
Dry, Warm Weather Recommended over Paving in the Rain
Asphalt paving projects in the Bay Area communities of Hayward, San Jose and Santa Clara are best completed in the dry, summer season. Crews have ample time to lay out paving materials and the surface gets plenty of drying time. We also recommend using slurry seal, a rubberized emulsion that contains aggregates (crushed rocks) and is therefore more resilient and durable than the traditional fog seal. When combined with asphalt sealcoats, it provides a watertight seal that will protect your paved areas from weather, erosion and oxidation. These sealcoats also improve the surface texture and provide a smooth, non-abrasive surface.
As a full-service local paving company, American Asphalt assures you of high quality work and lasting results. Whether you need a new road, pavement, parking lot installation or playground, we ensure you have the right paving application and tailor our services to the unique needs of your Bay Area property. If rain is in the forecast and you need an urgent paving job completed before wet weather moves in, talk to us right away. We have large crews, well-stocked vans and can complete large and complex jobs in a very short time.
American Asphalt runs three paving crews, two slurry surfacing crews, three sealcoating crews, three concrete crews and two striping crews. We do all the legwork so property managers don’t have to. Our team provides a schedule, all plans and updates, color-coded maps to show work areas and days, traffic control, and assumes responsibility for notifying tenants or occupants in the area and/or building. As leaders in this industry, you can count on our experience and service quality to avoid challenges like paving in the rain.
Contact us online to inquire about asphalt paving solutions for roads, pavements, and parking lots. Call us at 800-541-5559 to book our paving services in the Bay Area including Hayward, San Jose and Santa Clara, CA.
Originally posted at: http://www.americanasphalt.com/challenges-paving-rain/
