Paving in the rain. Can Asphalt Paving Be Done in Rain
Can Asphalt Paving in Dallas Be Done in the Rain?
Learn about Heavy rainfall in DFW and its effect on How Rain effects commercial asphalt paving in Dallas. (214) 941-2563. Rain affects asphalt paving by displacing the oil, and this can lead to structural damage in your new asphalt driveway or surface. Poor adhesion: Rainwater acts as a barrier between the asphalt mix and the underlying surface, hindering proper bonding. Asphalt paving cannot be completed while it is raining. Paving must also be delayed if it has rained recently enough for the ground to still be wet. Renco Construction.
Asphalt has been the preferred choice for various pavements across Dallas for several decades. It is more cost-effective and quicker to install compared to concrete. Additionally, asphalt offers a visually appealing finish, requires minimal maintenance, and can be long-lasting when properly maintained. Any rain beyond a very light mist will potentially ruin an asphalt paving job IN PROGRESS. But after the asphalt is rolled smoothly, it’s not usually a problem.
How Does Rain Impact Asphalt Paving?
Water repels oil, leading to the possibility of cracks or holes forming in asphalt laid during rainy weather. These defects can quickly develop into potholes, and sometimes potholes emerge when asphalt is laid on moist ground after rain has ceased.
Is it okay if it rains after paving a driveway?
Why does increased precipitation lead to more potholes? Potholes are more common during colder months, particularly when temperatures drop below freezing at some point during the day or night. Rain or snow penetrates tiny cracks in the pavement, reaching the ground beneath. When the temperature drops, this moisture freezes and expands, pushing the pavement upwards. When temperatures rise again, the ground contracts while the pavement remains elevated, leaving a gap or hole between the pavement and the now-contracted ground. When vehicles drive over these gaps, the pavement collapses, gradually breaking off until potholes form, much to the annoyance of drivers.
Impact of Heavy Rainfall on Asphalt
In 2015, pothole damage reached unprecedented levels, as reported by NBC DFW: “A Shell gas station was busy all afternoon Thursday, with more than 20 drivers experiencing varying levels of tire damage.” With the National Weather Service predicting another rainy year similar to last, we are ready to tackle each pavement issue quickly and efficiently. We excel in a range of services, from pothole repair and road resurfacing to trip hazard removal and sidewalk crack repair.
Asphalt Paving FAQ
Why Do Dallas Contractors Avoid Asphalt Paving in the Rain?
Dallas Paving Contractors use hot mix asphalt whether they’re adding an overlay or constructing new pavement. This material arrives on-site hot—around 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Paving crews must lay and compact each asphalt layer before it cools below roughly 175 degrees; beyond this point, the asphalt can harden, making it impossible to compact. The time frame for completing these tasks is short, and rain speeds up the cooling process. Consequently, the pavement’s strength, integrity, and durability can suffer significantly. Rain can also cause surface defects like cracks and holes in hot asphalt.
How Much Rain Is Needed to Postpone Paving?
Reputable contractors will monitor weather forecasts vigilantly. If rain is predicted, most will delay starting a job. However, if rain begins while a project is underway, the decision to pause depends on the intensity of the rain and duration. A light drizzle might not justify stopping the work, but heavier rain typically leads to postponement.
Can Contractors Resume Work Right After Rain Stops?
The ability to resume work depends on the amount of rain. Generally, contractors will wait until the surface has dried completely. A light shower on a hot day may require a shorter wait than heavy rain on a cooler day. Additionally, heavy rainfall can leave the ground too wet to continue working immediately. Even heavy rain overnight can saturate the ground, preventing the start of a new paving job.
Does Rain Delay All Jobs Involving Hot Mix Asphalt?
Rain can delay any project involving hot mix asphalt, including parking lot repairs, street patching, or overlay installations. Although DFW Paving contractors aim to serve their clients regardless of weather, ensuring high-quality work means avoiding asphalt placement in the rain.
Choose Renco Construction for Superior Asphalt Services in Dallas Fort Worth
With 40 years of experience in DFW asphalt paving, Renco Construction delivers exceptional work and outstanding service. We offer various services including asphalt resurfacing and paving, sealcoating, parking lot striping, asphalt milling, thermoplastic markings, reflective pavement markers, parking lot signs, speed bump installation, drainage repairs, site development, bollard installation, and asphalt crack repair. We also install and repair concrete.
For a quote, fill out our online form or give us a call. (214) 941-2563
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