As fall approaches, asphalt sealcoating professionals face a range of challenges that can make their work more difficult. With shorter days and cooler temperatures, the fall season can be a race against time for contractors in colder climates. Many sealcoating companies set a shutdown date, marking the end of their sealing season. The key challenges of sealcoating in the fall revolve around temperature fluctuations and unpredictable weather conditions. Here’s a look at what contractors need to keep in mind during this time of year.
1. Shorter Days
As fall sets in, the days grow shorter, and by mid-August, each day loses about three minutes of sunlight. This reduces the available work time, which can be problematic for asphalt sealcoating projects. Although sealcoating at night is possible, it’s not recommended during the fall. As temperatures drop in the evening, the sealer won’t cure properly when it’s applied in cooler conditions. It’s best to start early in the day and finish before sunset to ensure proper curing of the asphalt sealant.
2. Colder Temperatures
In the fall, temperatures typically dip below the 50°F mark, which is the minimum required temperature for applying sealcoating. When the temperature falls below this threshold, the sealer doesn’t cure effectively, and the application may need to be redone. As the weather cools toward the end of fall, contractors face the challenge of completing projects before the temperatures drop too low for effective sealcoating.
3. Shady Spots
Asphalt sealcoating works best in direct sunlight and warm conditions. When working in shaded areas, the sealer can cool quickly, preventing it from curing correctly. Professionals know that if they have to seal in shaded spots, they need to start early so the sun has time to warm the asphalt and allow the sealer to properly adhere. Careful planning and timing are essential to compensate for shaded areas and ensure optimal results.
4. Keeping the Sealcoating Tank Warm
Another challenge of sealcoating in the fall is maintaining the temperature of the sealer itself. On cooler days, particularly in the late fall, the sealer can cool down quickly. This can lead to delays as contractors work to reheat the tank and thin the sealer before application. Ideally, the sealer should stay warm overnight to prevent wasting fuel and time on reheating. Keeping the sealcoating tank warm can be a major factor in maintaining the efficiency of the job.
Get Your Asphalt Ready for Winter with Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc.
Fall can be a tricky time for asphalt sealcoating, but with the right materials and preparation, you can still get the job done effectively. At Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc., we offer top-quality products to help you seal and maintain your asphalt surfaces, even as the temperatures drop. Whether you need crack filling, sealant, or equipment to handle the colder months, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today at 304-916-6117 for expert advice and premium asphalt maintenance products.