5 Reasons Why Winter Asphalt Sealcoating In Martinsburg Is A Bad Idea
Asphalt sealcoating in Martinsburg is a service you can’t afford to go without. Sealing is a critical part of the maintenance puzzle, protecting your asphalt paving from the elements and everyday wear and tear. However, as with any maintenance or repair service, the right approach can make all the difference.
Sealcoating companies are busiest during the spring and summer seasons, working hard to protect parking lots and driveways before cooler weather arrives. But why don’t contractors typically perform sealcoating in the winter? Here are five reasons why winter sealcoating isn’t a good idea.
Can Asphalt Sealers Cure in Winter Weather?
One of the biggest challenges with Martinsburg asphalt sealcoating during the winter is the cooler temperatures. Most asphalt sealer formulas require air and ground temperatures of at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit to cure. Any cooler, and asphalt sealing products typically fail to cure and bond.
In Martinsburg, winter temperatures frequently dip into freezing territory, especially after the sun sets. That alone makes traditional sealcoating impossible.
Asphalt sealcoating companies can take steps to overcome the challenges posed by cooler temperatures, but doing so is costly and complex. More on that soon. As a result, most sealcoating in the winter is often reserved for emergencies.
Is There a Risk of Asphalt Sealcoating in Martinsburg Freezing During the Winter Season?
Asphalt sealing products can absolutely freeze. When adequately prepared, asphalt sealer contains up to 40 percent water by volume. During the curing process, the moisture content slowly evaporates.
However, during the winter, evaporation slows to a crawl. Pair that with freezing temperatures, and most Martinsburg asphalt sealcoating attempts during the winter season fail. The sealer freezes, failing to bond to the asphalt and protect the pavement.
Is Sealcoating in the Winter Possible on Warmer Days?
You might be thinking, “There are plenty of warmer days with temperatures above that 50-degree threshold.” So, why not perform Martinsburg asphalt sealcoating then?
First, you must remember that sealcoating companies check both air and ground temperatures. While the forecast may say that air temperatures are above 50 degrees, there could be a 20-degree difference with ground temperatures.
Secondly, asphalt sealing requires up to 48 hours to cure, and that’s in warm, dry conditions. Daytime temperatures might be ideal, but they won’t be at night. Therefore, commercial asphalt sealcoating will still fail.
Does Moisture Pose a Problem for Winter Asphalt Sealcoating in Martinsburg?
Snow, rain, and ice pose significant problems for Martinsburg asphalt sealcoating. Asphalt sealcoating companies require clean, dry pavement to achieve the best results. However, winter precipitation makes that impossible.
Moisture can wash away asphalt sealer, interfering with the curing process and creating a huge mess. It can also seep into cracks. Once that moisture freezes, it’ll expand, making the voids even bigger.
Is Commercial Asphalt Sealcoating Pricier in the Winter?
Sealcoating companies can provide winter services by using additional equipment and taking advantage of shorter daylight hours. However, doing so comes at a higher cost.
The extra equipment and labor make wintertime asphalt sealcoating far more expensive. As a result, it’s often better to wait for the warmer spring season.
When you need commercial sealcoating done right, whether it’s during the winter or the busy season, you can count on Quality Striping & Sealing. We’re among the best asphalt sealcoating companies in Martinsburg, bringing over three decades of experience to the table. With premium sealers and a commitment to quality, we have what it takes to ensure your pavement is well protected.
Beyond commercial asphalt sealcoating, we offer driveway sealing, repairs, crack filling, parking lot striping, stencils, signage installation, wheel stops, and more. Ready to discuss your needs in greater detail? Reach out to the Quality Striping & Sealing team to get your free quote today by calling (833)966-SEAL (7325), emailing angela@chocolate-flamingo-780933.hostingersite.com, or submitting our online form.
