Whether it’s parking lot or driveway paving, asphalt projects can improve your property’s appearance and functionality. Curing refers to the process of it hardening due to the evaporation of the oils present in the mixture. Understanding what conditions are needed for asphalt paving to cure properly will help you plan the project. Below is a guide to the two main components needed for proper asphalt curing: temperature and moisture.

Temperature

The temperature of the air, the aggregate and base surfaces, and the asphalt mixture itself will all influence the curing process. Aggregates can include sand, gravel, crushed stone, or all three. Regardless of the type used, they’re heated to remove moisture, which promotes strong asphalt bonding, and they all respond to temperature the same way. 

High temperatures are necessary for oils to evaporate in the curing process, but if it’s too high, they’ll evaporate too quickly, leaving crumbly and unstable asphalt. Contractors can account for this by applying a slightly cooler asphalt mix, ensuring the aggregate is at the appropriate temperature when mixing, or by sealing the surface sooner to preserve the oil content.

If the temperatures are too low, the time available to properly compact the asphalt before it starts curing is shortened significantly. To resolve this problem, a contractor can apply the mix at the highest possible temperature, work quicker during compaction, apply a thicker layer of asphalt, or use a warm mix additive to expand the time window for compaction. 

Moisture

Moisture levels in the mixture and in the air (humidity) are also vital to proper asphalt paving. High moisture levels in the air slow the asphalt curing process because it’s less able to absorb the oils from the mixture. Humidity levels above 80% to 90% prevent the sealing of the surface, too, as it will trap too much moisture in the asphalt.

High moisture levels both in the mixture and in the air can also lead to stripping, where the asphalt binder can’t adhere to the aggregate in and under it. Stripping causes the asphalt surface to be more susceptible to ruts, cracks, and slipping, as it can’t maintain its structure under the weight of use.

Hiring an experienced asphalt paving contractor means all these factors are considered, ensuring your project goes off without a hitch. Musson Brothers in Rhinelander, WI, offers competitive paving and excavation services, backed by over 70 years’ experience. They can do lot clearing, snow removal, aggregate and sand sales, basement construction, and site development. Learn more about their services online and call (715) 365-8700 for an estimate.