Alright, Kent homeowners, let us talk about your asphalt driveways. You have a good one, and you want to keep it that way. That means thinking about sealcoating. But here in the Pacific Northwest, with our unique climate, you cannot just put it on any old time. You have to be smart about when you schedule it as well as what conditions you are looking for.
Valley Paving Co has been working with asphalt around Kent for years. Our team has seen what works as well as what definitely does not. Getting your sealcoat done at the right time can add years to your driveway's life. This will also save you a headache as well as money down the road. Let us break it down for your Kent property.
When to Schedule Your Sealcoating in Kent
The big question is when is the best time to get that protective layer down. For us here in Kent, the sweet spot for Asphalt Sealcoating is typically late spring through early fall. You can think about May through September, and sometimes even early October if we get a nice stretch of weather.
Why is this the best window for Asphalt Sealcoating? It all comes down to temperature as well as moisture. Sealcoating products need warm temperatures to cure properly. Most manufacturers recommend applying sealcoat when both the air and pavement temperatures are consistently between 50°F and 85°F. Ideally, you want temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. In Kent, our summers are warm as well as relatively dry. Daily high temperatures often reach into the 70s as well as even low 80s in July and August. That is prime time for your Asphalt Sealcoating project.
You might be tempted to jump on your Asphalt Sealcoating in early spring, like April, when you start seeing some sun. But our average April temperatures, with highs around 56-59°F and lows in the high 30s or low 40s, can be a bit too cool. This is especially true overnight. The sealcoat will not bond right if it is too cold. It will just peel off your Kent driveway.
Do not wait too long into fall for your Asphalt Sealcoating, like late October or November. While October can still have some decent days with highs in the 50s and 60s, the chances of rain as well as colder overnight lows increase significantly. You need that consistent warmth for proper curing of your Asphalt Sealcoating in Kent.
Weather Conditions That Affect the Work
Beyond just the season, specific weather conditions on the day of as well as days following application are important. Here is what we, as professionals at Valley Paving Co, are always looking at for your Kent property:
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Temperature: As we said, 50°F to 85°F is the range, with 65°F-75°F being optimal. It is not just the daytime high. The temperature needs to stay above 50°F for at least 24-48 hours after application. This helps the sealcoat cure correctly.
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No Rain: This one is a big deal in Kent. Sealcoat is water-based. Rain will absolutely ruin a fresh application. It can wash it away, cause streaks, or cause bubbles. It can also prevent it from adhering properly. We need a forecast that is clear of rain for at least 24-48 hours after the job. Even light showers can cause issues for Asphalt Sealcoating.
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Low Humidity: High humidity slows down the drying as well as curing process. This is because the water in the sealcoat cannot evaporate as quickly. This can lead to a tacky, uneven finish. It can also lead to peeling. Our summers usually offer lower humidity. This is another reason that season is ideal for Asphalt Sealcoating in Kent.
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Sunlight: Direct sunlight helps the sealcoat dry as well as cure faster. Cloudy conditions can extend drying times. This can also potentially reduce the quality of the Asphalt Sealcoating.
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Wind: A light breeze can help with drying. But strong winds over 10-15 mph can cause problems. It can lead to uneven application. It can also blow the sealant onto nearby cars or landscaping.
When you call Valley Paving Co for your Asphalt Sealcoating, we are not just looking at the calendar. We are checking the hourly forecast as well as ground temperatures. Our team also checks humidity levels. This makes sure we pick the perfect day for your property in Kent.
Protecting Your Investment Year-Round
Asphalt Sealcoating is not a one-and-done deal. But it is a big part of year-round protection for your Kent driveway. Here is how to keep your Kent driveway looking good as well as lasting long:
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Regular Sealcoating: Aim to reseal your driveway every 2-3 years. This creates a fresh barrier against UV rays, water, oil, as well as chemicals. It is especially important here in Kent, where we get a lot of rain. Those freeze-thaw cycles can really do a number on unprotected asphalt.
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Clean it Up: Do not let dirt, leaves, as well as debris sit on your driveway. Sweep it off regularly. Oil and gas spills should be cleaned immediately. This prevents them from breaking down the asphalt.
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Address Cracks Promptly: Even with Asphalt Sealcoating, small cracks can appear. Do not ignore them. Water is asphalt's worst enemy. If water gets into cracks and freezes, it expands. This makes the cracks bigger. This is especially true for properties near the Green River, where the soil can be prone to moisture. Fill those cracks as soon as you see them. This prevents water intrusion as well as further damage to your Kent driveway.
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Avoid Heavy Loads: Try not to park heavy vehicles or equipment on your driveway for long periods. This can cause indentations as well as stress the asphalt.
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Trim Overhanging Branches: If you have trees shading your driveway, consider trimming branches. This helps sunlight reach the asphalt. It aids in drying after rain. It also prevents moss or algae growth, which can retain moisture.
Your asphalt driveway is a significant investment in your home. By understanding Kent's climate as well as following these seasonal tips, you will keep it strong, beautiful, as well as functional for years to come. If you are ever unsure about your driveway's condition or the best time for Asphalt Sealcoating, give us a call at Valley Paving Co. We are always happy to help our neighbors out in Kent.