Asphalt is a durable material that can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. One of the most important services you can invest in to prolong the life of your paved surfaces is sealcoating. Properly applied sealant protects your asphalt from the elements, wear and tear, and other damaging factors. Sealcoating helps to prevent oxidation, mitigate premature deterioration, and extend the lifespan of your pavement. For homeowners and businesses in West Virginia, the best time for sealcoating is during the warmer months, but is it possible to apply asphalt sealer in winter?
Why Is Sealcoating Best in the Warmer Months?
While it’s possible to schedule sealcoating during the winter, the warmer months—spring and summer—are the ideal times for this service. Asphalt sealcoating involves applying a sealer mixture that requires time to cure properly. This curing process is critical for forming a strong bond between the pavement and the sealer.
The water content in the asphalt sealer must evaporate for the sealer to bond with the surface. In warmer weather, the evaporation process is much quicker, typically taking at least 24 hours of favorable conditions. Sunlight, wind, and warm temperatures help facilitate the curing process, making spring and summer the best times for sealcoating projects.
Challenges with Winter Sealcoating in West Virginia
Winter in West Virginia can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snowfall being common. In these conditions, asphalt sealers will not cure properly, and the curing process can be disrupted by ice, snow, or moisture. The result is an uneven or ineffective finish, leaving your pavement unprotected and prone to damage. In addition, sealcoating cannot occur if there’s ice or snow on the surface, and rain or snow during the curing period can undo the work.
Ideal Conditions for Asphalt Sealcoating
While winter isn’t ideal for sealcoating, it’s still possible to perform this service during the early winter months if conditions are right. For successful sealcoating, air and ground temperatures need to be at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Sealcoating professionals will closely monitor the weather forecast to ensure optimal conditions for applying and curing the sealer. Factors like humidity, wind, and sun exposure also play a role in the curing process. Humidity levels should ideally be below 50-60%, and gentle breezes can help improve evaporation. While sunlight is essential for curing, some surfaces in shaded areas may require more time. Still, skilled contractors can adapt to these conditions to ensure proper sealing.
How Experienced Contractors Handle Winter Sealcoating
If you need sealcoating during the winter months, it’s important to hire an experienced team like Exterior Property Maintenance LLC. We understand the specific challenges of sealcoating in West Virginia and only perform this service when the conditions are right. Our contractors pay attention to the forecast and plan carefully, adjusting our approach to maximize sunlight and ensure the sealer has enough time to cure.
With years of experience in the industry, we use the highest-quality asphalt sealers to ensure a sleek finish and optimal protection for your asphalt surfaces. Whether it's a residential driveway or a commercial parking lot, we’re committed to providing the best results for your pavement. In addition to sealcoating, we also offer a wide range of services, including new paving, resurfacing, crack repair, gravel hauling, snow plowing, parking lot drainage, and more.
Contact Us for Your Sealcoating Needs
At Exterior Property Maintenance LLC, we’re your go-to experts for asphalt services in West Virginia. We are proud to serve areas like Parkersburg, Mineral Wells, Vienna, Williamstown, Ripley, and beyond. If you’re ready to protect your pavement with top-notch sealcoating, contact us today for a free estimate.