Summer vs. Winter Paving: How Season Impacts Drying Times
When it comes to asphalt paving, timing is everything. The season you choose to pave—summer or winter—can significantly affect how long your asphalt takes to dry, cure, and perform in the long run. At Woodstock Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating, we know that understanding seasonal differences helps homeowners and property managers make smarter paving decisions that last year after year.
The Role of Temperature and Weather in Asphalt Curing
Asphalt doesn’t “dry” in the traditional sense—it cures. Curing is the process where the liquid asphalt binder hardens as it reacts with air and cools. Temperature, humidity, and sunlight all play major roles in how quickly this process happens.
- High temperatures help the asphalt remain pliable longer, allowing for proper compaction.
- Cooler weather slows the curing process, extending the time before the surface can handle heavy traffic.
- Moisture levels—whether from rain, fog, or humidity—can delay curing and affect the final surface quality.
Paving in Summer: Fast, Efficient, and Ideal
Summer is the best season for asphalt paving. The warm weather helps asphalt maintain the perfect balance between workability and quick setting.
✅ Faster Drying Times – In temperatures between 70°F and 90°F, asphalt can set within hours and be ready for light use by the next day.
✅ Better Compaction – Heat keeps the mix workable longer, allowing paving crews to compact it properly for a smooth, durable finish.
✅ Stronger Sealcoat Application – Summer is also the ideal time to apply sealcoating, as the warmth ensures even curing and maximum protection against UV rays and traffic wear.
Pro Tip: If you’re scheduling a driveway or parking lot project, book early in the season. Asphalt contractors’ schedules fill up fast once the temperatures start climbing.
Paving in Winter: Slower and Riskier
While winter paving isn’t impossible, it’s much more challenging due to lower temperatures and unpredictable weather.
⚠️ Longer Drying Times – In cold weather, asphalt cools too quickly, which prevents proper compaction and can lead to cracks and weak spots.
⚠️ Reduced Adhesion – Cold surfaces make it harder for asphalt to bond, especially when moisture or frost is present.
⚠️ Shorter Work Windows – With daylight and warmth in short supply, crews have less time to lay and finish asphalt effectively.
If winter paving is unavoidable, your contractor will use specialized mixes and techniques to help the asphalt cure correctly—but even then, results may not be as long-lasting as summer paving.
Fall and Spring: The Middle Ground
If you can’t schedule paving in the peak summer months, spring and fall can still offer good conditions. Mild temperatures and low humidity help with consistent curing—just be sure the weather stays above 50°F and rain is minimal.
Sealcoating Timing Matters Too
Sealcoating is an essential step for protecting your investment, but it also depends on the season. Warm, dry weather allows sealcoat to cure evenly, sealing out moisture and extending the life of your asphalt surface. In contrast, cooler or damp weather can prevent the sealant from adhering properly.
Choose Woodstock Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating for Every Season
At Woodstock Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating, we bring precision, experience, and the right materials for every season. Whether you’re planning a new asphalt installation, a resurfacing project, or sealcoating maintenance, our team ensures lasting results—no matter the weather.
Get your free estimate today and find out the best time to schedule your next paving project.
📍 Serving Woodstock and surrounding Georgia communities with expert asphalt paving and sealcoating services.
We proudly serve the following cities: Acworth, Alpharetta, Atlanta, Austell, Brookhaven, Canton, Cartersville, Dallas, Decatur, Doraville, D
ouglasville, Duluth, Dunwoody, East Cobb, Hiram, Johns Creek, Kennesaw, Lilburn, Mableton, Marietta, Milton, Powder Springs, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Stone Mountain, Suwanee, Tucker, Villa Rica, and Woodstock Ga.
Woodstock Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating
Woodstock Ga 30188
404-724-8034


