How to Choose the Right Material for Cold Climate Asphalt Repair

Choosing the right material for asphalt repair in a cold climate requires careful consideration of temperature fluctuations, freeze-thaw cycles, and moisture levels. Philadelphia experiences harsh winters, where snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can severely damage asphalt. To ensure effective and long-lasting repairs, it’s important to pick the right asphalt material. With Power Surge Plus in Philadelphia, PA, you can be sure that we’ll make the right repair for the situation.

How To Choose the Right Material for Cold Climate Asphalt Repair

Cold Mix Asphalt

For a quick fix during the winter months, cold mix asphalt is often the best choice. It is specifically designed to be used in cold weather conditions when hot mix asphalt is unavailable or impractical. Cold mix asphalt contains additives that keep it pliable and easy to work with at lower temperatures, allowing it to bond well even in freezing weather. It can be applied in wet or snowy conditions, making it a good option for emergency repairs, especially to potholes, which are common in Philadelphia’s freeze-thaw cycle.

However, cold mix is a temporary solution, as it doesn’t offer the same durability as hot mix asphalt. It is more prone to degradation over time, particularly under heavy traffic or during periods of repeated freezing and thawing.

Hot Mix Asphalt

For more permanent repairs, hot mix asphalt is the best material. Hot mix asphalt is made at high temperatures and is designed to provide a strong, durable surface that can withstand the heavy freeze-thaw cycles common in Philadelphia winters. The asphalt’s strength comes from its ability to bond tightly to the existing pavement and create a smooth, uniform surface.

However, because this type of asphalt needs to be applied when temperatures are above 40°F (4°C), it cannot always be used during the winter.

Polymeric Patches

Another option in cold climates is the use of polymeric patches. These materials are specially formulated with polymers that allow for greater flexibility and adhesion, even in freezing temperatures. Polymeric patches can fill cracks and potholes more effectively than traditional cold mix asphalt and are longer lasting, making them ideal for extreme weather conditions.

Sealcoating and Crack Sealing

To further protect asphalt in Philadelphia’s cold climate, sealcoating and crack sealing can be applied before winter. Crack sealing is a type of preventative maintenance which prevents moisture from entering the asphalt. This moisture can freeze and expand, causing further damage to an existing crack. Similarly, sealcoating provides a protective layer that guards against the effects of water, salt, and ice.

Consult an Asphalt Specialist in Philadelphia, PA

The climate isn’t the only factor you have to consider when repairing asphalt. The right patch for the job is also influenced by the area that needs repairing, the extent of the damage, and the amount of stress that the patch will be put under. This is the sort of expertise that we bring to the job when you hire us for your paving repairs.

It’s important to use the right type of asphalt when making a repair. Get in touch with us at Power Surge Plus in Philadelphia, PA, and we can assess your repair needs and walk you through the pros and cons of different patch options.

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