Summer is the peak season for sealcoating, but it also presents unique challenges that can affect the quality of your work. With high temperatures and humidity, it’s crucial to adopt best practices that ensure a smooth and durable sealcoat. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to master commercial sealcoating in the summer, from preparation to post-application care.
Sealcoating in the summer can be a double-edged sword. While the warm weather accelerates the curing process, extreme heat and humidity can also lead to premature drying and adhesion issues. For property managers, commercial contractors, facility maintenance staff, and asphalt sealant company owners and workers, maintaining quality service under these conditions is paramount. This guide will provide you with practical tips and best practices to tackle summer sealcoating effectively.
Preparation for Sealcoating in Summer
Assess Weather Conditions
Before starting any sealcoating project, it’s essential to check the weather forecast. High temperatures and sudden rain can ruin your hard work. Just as cold weather affects the integrity of sealcoating, excessively hot conditions can be equally detrimental. Temperatures above 95 degrees Fahrenheit can bake the sealcoat before the material properly adheres to the pavement. Furthermore, the binder used in many sealcoats can melt at temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, leading to poor results and wasted effort.
Aim to sealcoat during cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or late afternoons. This will help you avoid the scorching midday heat, which can cause the sealant to dry too quickly and compromise the quality of your work. Thus, proper timing and weather considerations are crucial for a successful sealcoating project.
Surface Preparation
A clean and dry surface is crucial for a successful sealcoat. Make sure to remove all debris, dirt, and oil stains from the asphalt. Use a blower or a broom to clear the area thoroughly. Additionally, ensure the surface is completely dry before applying the sealant. Any moisture can interfere with adhesion and lead to peeling and cracking.
Material Selection
Choosing the right sealant is vital, especially in high temperatures and humidity. Opt for a sealant designed for summer conditions, as it will be more resistant to the effects of heat and moisture. Store your materials in a cool, shaded area to prevent degradation. Proper storage will help maintain the sealant’s quality and effectiveness.
Potential Problems in Extreme Heat and Humidity
Sealcoating in extreme heat and high humidity presents several challenges that can impact the outcome of your project. Being aware of these potential problems is essential for maintaining high-quality work.
Premature Drying
One of the most common issues is premature drying or what is known as flash drying of the sealant. In extremely hot conditions, the sealant can start to dry too quickly, leading to problems such as poor adhesion and a compromised film. This can result in a surface that is weak and more prone to damage.
Blistering and Cracking
Excessive heat can cause the sealant to blister and crack. This happens because the surface of the sealant dries much faster than deeper layers, creating tensions that the material cannot withstand. Blistering and cracking not only spoils the appearance but also reduces the lifespan of the sealcoat.
Splattering and Uneven Application
High temperatures can also cause the sealant to become overly fluid, leading to splattering during application. This can make it challenging to achieve a smooth and uniform coat, resulting in a patchy finish. Uneven application affects both the aesthetics and the protective qualities of the sealcoat.
Delamination
In conditions of high humidity, the underlying moisture can interfere with the adhesion of the sealant to the asphalt surface. This can lead to delamination, where the seal coat separates from the pavement. Delamination reduces the effectiveness of the sealcoat and requires reapplication, increasing time and costs.
Rapid Evaporation of Sealant Mix
When the sealant mix evaporates too quickly due to extreme heat, it can alter the composition and effectiveness of the sealant. Experienced technicians understand the importance of maintaining the right sealant mix to ensure it performs correctly under varying weather conditions.
How to Manage Extreme Heat and Humidity Problems in Sealcoating
Managing the challenges of sealcoating in extreme heat and high humidity requires meticulous planning and the implementation of specific techniques. Sealcoating in extreme heat has unique challenges, as sealcoating equipment is, by its very nature, hot, smelly, and sticky. Tanks filled with sealer are a hot mess that will make anyone sweat. However, with the following tips, you can ensure a successful project even under harsh conditions.
Apply Two Coats
A good way to defeat flash curing, which occurs when sealer dries upon contact due to extreme heat, is by applying two coats of sealer. The first coat should be a light fog coat, functioning like a primer. It should only be sufficient to cover the pavement lightly. By doing so, this coat will lower the temperature of the pavement and provide an adherent base for the second coat. An added benefit is that it gives the pavement a deep black color, making it look clean and fresh.
Fog the Pavement
If you are using a squeegee application, fogging the pavement before applying the sealer can be extremely effective. Fogging involves spraying a light mist of water on the pavement to cool it down. Care must be taken to avoid creating puddles. This technique cools the pavement, mitigates flash curing, and helps thin out the sealer slightly, allowing it to penetrate tiny cracks and pores, thus improving adherence.
Use a 50/50 Mixture
Another tactic, though not popular among all sealers, is to thin the sealer with water. A 50/50 ratio of sealer to water without aggregate should be used for the first coat only. This thinned-out material, when applied at the normal rate, allows the sealer to soak into the pavement more effectively. However, most contractors prefer working out of a single tank, which can make this method challenging to implement.
In managing these conditions, always remember that the sun can bake down, causing pavement temperatures to soar up to 120 degrees, leading to problems like flash curing, steering marks, and tracking. Flash curing traps a thin layer of wet sealer between the dried top and the pavement, rendering it ineffective. By applying the methods outlined above, you can achieve a high-quality sealcoat despite the adverse conditions. Maintaining attention to detail and adjusting your techniques accordingly ensures that your project stands the test of time.
Post-Application Care
Curing and Drying
After applying the sealant, keep the surface traffic-free until it’s fully cured. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on weather conditions. Protect the area from unexpected rain, as water can damage the fresh sealcoat and cause uneven curing. Allow extra time for each coat to dry, especially in humid conditions. Patience is key to ensuring a durable finish. If necessary, use fans or blowers to accelerate the drying process. This can help you stay on schedule while maintaining the quality of your work.
Quality Control
Inspect the seal-coated area for any defects, such as bubbles or cracks. Address any issues immediately to ensure a smooth, durable finish. Quality control is essential to maintaining the integrity of the sealcoat and achieving customer satisfaction.
Equipment Care During Hot Months
Regular Maintenance
Regularly check and service your sealcoating equipment to ensure optimal performance. Proper lubrication and functional cooling systems are crucial for avoiding equipment failures during high-temperature operations. Well-maintained equipment ensures consistent application quality.
Storage and Handling
Store your equipment in shaded or cool areas when not in use. Extreme heat can damage sensitive parts and reduce the lifespan of your tools. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the durability and efficiency of your equipment.
Health and Safety Tips for Applicators
Staying Hydrated
Hydration is vital for the health and safety of your crew. Encourage everyone to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as it helps regulate body temperature, lubricate joints, and transport nutrients throughout the body. Remind them to carry water bottles and take regular breaks to drink. Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks as they can lead to dehydration and negatively impact energy levels. Keeping hydrated helps maintain focus and productivity, reducing the risk of errors and accidents. Proper hydration is especially crucial during hot weather or strenuous activities, so ensure your crew understands its importance.
Taking Breaks
Schedule regular breaks in shaded or cool areas to prevent heat exhaustion. Recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating, and take immediate action if they occur. Prioritizing breaks ensures the well-being of your team.
Additionally, consider starting work earlier in the morning to avoid the most extreme temperatures in the early afternoon. By beginning the workday at cooler times, you can reduce the risk of heat-related issues and maintain productivity. Taking these proactive steps shows a commitment to the health and safety of everyone involved.
Protective Gear
Equip your crew with light-colored, breathable clothing to minimize heat absorption. Incorporating proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial for safety and efficiency during sealcoating operations. Ensure that all team members wear eye protection to guard against debris, and provide particle masks to avoid inhaling hazardous particles. Full-length clothing is necessary to protect the skin, along with chemical-resistant boots and gloves to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals.
When working in areas with traffic, high visibility vests or clothing are essential to ensure that crew members are easily seen. For those applying coal tar, a protective cream should be used to shield the skin from potential irritants. Additionally, sun protection such as hats and sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 25 is vital to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses. Proper gear not only ensures the safety of your crew but also enhances their comfort and performance during sealcoating operations.
Master Summer Sealcoating
Mastering summer sealcoating for commercial properties requires careful planning, the right materials, and consistent attention to detail. By following these best practices, you can balance quality service with the safety and well-being of your workers. Stay informed and prepared for varying summer weather conditions to achieve the best results.
