What Are the Best Temperatures for Paving a Parking Lot?

Parking lots are a great way to get people into your business. Whether for shopping, dining, or going to the movies, parking lot paving is necessary if you want people to have somewhere safe and comfortable to park their cars.
​
But not just any old asphalt will do! And that's where this article comes in: We're going to take a look at what are the best temperatures for paving a parking lot, so you can make sure that your lot looks great and functions well for years to come.

The Ideal Temperature for Asphalt Installation

The ideal temperature for paving an asphalt parking lot is between 50 and 90 degrees. At these temperatures, the asphalt will be soft enough to work with but not so soft that it becomes unstable. Anything below 50(122 degrees Fahrenheit) or above 90(194 degrees Fahrenheit) degrees can cause a subpar pour that may lead to problems in the future.

Paving at a higher temperature will result in a harder surface, while paving at a lower temperature will create a softer surface. Neither of these is ideal – a hard surface can be difficult to drive on, and a smooth surface can become damaged easily.

If you're working with a contractor, be sure to ask them what the ambient temperature is for your area. They should give you a good idea of what temperature will work best for your project.
Take these temperatures into account when planning your paving project – it can save you a lot of headaches in the future.​

When Should You Plan for Parking Lot Paving?

Asphalt paving for parking lots should generally be planned during the summer months. This is when the temperatures are most consistent, and hot mix asphalt can be poured without any problems.

If you're looking to have your parking lot paved in the winter, you may have some issues. Paving in cold weather can cause the asphalt to crack and become brittle, leading to problems down the road.
Why summer months?
​
If you're looking to have your parking lot paved in the winter, you may have some issues. Paving in cold weather can cause the asphalt to crack and become brittle, leading to problems down the road.
Why are the summer months the best time to pave a parking lot? Let's take a look:

The Link Between Warmth and Sealcoating

Asphalt needs to be sealed periodically to protect it from the elements. The most critical time to seal coat an asphalt surface is immediately after it has been paved. If you wait too long, the sealant may not be effective.

Sealcoating is most effective when the asphalt is warm. That's why it's generally recommended to seal coat an asphalt parking lot shortly after it's been paved – when the temperatures are still warm.
​
If you're planning to pave your parking lot in the winter, you may want to consider seal coating it before the weather gets too cold. This will help protect the asphalt from cracking and becoming brittle.

The Importance of Sun in the Process of Paving

When paving an asphalt surface, it's important to have direct sunlight. This helps activate the binder in the asphalt, which is necessary for a strong and durable surface.

If you're working with a contractor, be sure to ask them about the best time of day to lay asphalt. They should give you a good idea of when the sun will be in the right position for the job.
​
When planning your paving project, make sure to consider the sun's position. This will help ensure that your parking lot is paved properly and lasts for years.

Extended Daylight Helps, Too

In addition to direct sunlight, it's also essential to have plenty of daylight when paving an asphalt surface. This helps ensure that the area is adequately illuminated and that any mistakes can be corrected quickly.

Summer Parking Lot Paving Projects Are Affordable

Since the temperatures are consistent during the summer months, it's generally a more affordable time to install asphalt parking lots. Contractors are less likely to charge higher rates for services since they're not dealing with any unexpected weather conditions.

If you're on a tight budget, summer is the best time to schedule your asphalt paving project. You'll be able to get the job done at a lower cost and without any problems.

Pro-Tip: It is advisable to check the weather forecast for ambient temperatures of the day before timing asphalt paving.

The Consequences of Unsuitable Paving Temperature

Laying asphalt surfaces at the wrong temperature can lead to a number of problems. The most common issue is that ​the asphalt will not cure properly, leading to a weak and brittle surface. Also, if paving is done in winter, then sunlight time is shortened, and the asphalt will not have time to cool down and harden, which could lead to cracks.

Conclusion

When planning an asphalt paving project, it's essential to consider the air temperature for proper asphalt installation. Paving during the summer months is generally recommended, as the temperatures are more consistent, and the asphalt will be less likely to crack. If you're working with a contractor, ask them about the best time of day for asphalt pavement. They should give you a good idea of when the sun will be in the right position for the job.