For several months of the year, Exterior Contractors in Madison WI have to carefully track the temperature to make sure it’s OK to pave surfaces with asphalt. Paving can be done in cold weather, but the contractors often only complete small projects because the hot mix cools so quickly. They can keep the mix at optimum temperature when it’s inside the equipment, but once it’s on the ground, the asphalt rapidly loses the heat.
Tracking the Weather Forecast
For best results, exterior contractors in Madison WI avoid starting a large project until they can be sure of the weather forecast for the next several days. If the situation deteriorates and freezing temperatures set in, it will be more difficult to compact the asphalt to a completely smooth surface once it has been poured onto the ground. There may be issues with performance much sooner than expected.
Unexpected Drops in Temperature
When temperatures do happen to drop unexpectedly, certain additives put into the mix can lower the required compaction temperature by several degrees, but the amount of extra time gained is still relatively short. Another strategy contractors use is to have more technicians and rolling devices on the site so they can complete the project sooner than originally planned. This isn’t always possible if the calendar is booked and all workers are assigned to projects.
Frozen Ground
Contractors cannot pave large areas when the ground is frozen, which is typical for most of the winter in southern Wisconsin. They can make repairs by adding hot mix to holes and cracks, but paving a driveway or parking lot must wait until warmer temperatures thaw the ground.
Considering Wind Speed During Cold Weather
Wind is another factor that contractors like Tri-County Paving Inc. must consider. The temperature may be 40 degrees, but a brisk wind can cause problems for laying and compacting asphalt. At a speed of 20 miles per hour, the wind chill factor is now 18 degrees. Water won’t freeze under these conditions, but hot materials will cool off very quickly. Asphalt mix will not stay hot for very long after it leaves the equipment.
