Considerations When Sealcoating in the Fall

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Asphalt contractors know that time is money, and it’s in their best interest to find the best time of year to complete their projects. Unfortunately, when it comes to sealing asphalt, certain conditions must be considered when deciding whether to tackle such a project. If you’re considering sealcoating your pavement in the fall (or have a customer requesting a sealcoating project in the fall), there are specific factors you should consider before taking the plunge. Here, we’ll take a look at seven critical considerations that asphalt contractors need to keep in mind when sealcoating in the fall.

1. Less daylight:

One of the essential factors to consider when sealcoating in the fall is the amount of daylight you have. As the days get shorter, it can be difficult to complete a sealcoating job in a single day. You might need to plan for several days to ensure the project is completed on time.

2. Temperature changes throughout the day:

Temperature changes throughout the day can also be a significant factor to consider when sealcoating in the fall. Asphalt shrinks and expands as the temperature fluctuates, which can lead to cracking and other damage. It’s crucial to be aware of temperature changes and plan the job accordingly. Between midday and mid-night, there can be a temperature change of 20 degrees or more, so timing your sealcoat application properly is critical.

3. Nighttime temperatures:

In the fall, temperatures begin to drop at night, so it’s important to consider nighttime temperatures when scheduling a sealcoating project. If temperatures drop too low, the sealcoat might not dry correctly, leading to poor results. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the nighttime temperature forecast before beginning the project.

4. Increased shade:

As the angle of the sun changes in the fall, more shade is cast on pavements that might not have been shaded during the summer months. Sealcoat needs sunlight to dry and setting up lighting is very important to ensure that you’re able to complete the job appropriately.

5. Cloudy days:

Cloudy days are common during the fall, and while this is welcome relief from the summer heat, it’s less than ideal for sealcoating. Sealcoat requires direct sunlight to dry correctly, and cloudy skies can slow down the drying process. Cloud cover can also lead to mist and dew, which can cause adhesion problems and other issues.

6. Seasonal changes in traffic patterns:

Another critical consideration for sealcoating in the fall is the seasonal changes in traffic patterns. Schools are back in session, and more cars are on the road, which can make it challenging to schedule the job and can be disrupting to local traffic. To minimize disruption, it’s essential to plan the project around expected peak traffic periods, such as school drop-offs and pickups.

7. Shadowed areas with less sun exposure:

Shaded areas with less sun exposure can also be a factor when deciding to sealcoat in the fall. If a pavement area is entirely in the shadow during the day and falls below the dew point during the time when the dew appears (after sunset and before sunrise), then the moisture will not evaporate, and, when the dew-covered area is seal coated, then the sealcoat may remain tacky for long periods of time and lead to tracking.

Sealcoating in the fall requires careful consideration of several critical factors before starting the job. However, with the right precautions and EcoShield Asphalt Products to supply you with all the equipment you need, including Pitch Black Asphalt Emulsion sealcoat, you can complete your project on time and to the satisfaction of your customers. If you’re considering sealcoating in the fall, make sure to account for these seven critical factors before taking on the job.