Sealcoating is a highly effective and economical way to help achieve the longest life possible for your asphalt pavement. Sealcoating acts as a barrier against potentially damaging elements, including UV rays, automotive fluids and deicing chemicals. In addition, sealcoating refreshes the color and improves the appearance of asphalt pavement. However, although there are some parts of the country in which sealcoating can be applied during virtually any month, in Central Kentucky, this is not the case. Most sealcoating jobs are performed between May 1 and September 30, but the month of May is actually the perfect time for sealcoating in this area. Why Is May the Best Month for Sealcoating in Central Kentucky? Sealcoating can be a tricky material. It must be mixed correctly and applied properly if the job is to succeed. However, the weather conditions play a critical role …show more content…
All sealcoating manufacturers recommend virtually identical conditions as ideal for sealcoating. Pavement and ambient temperatures should be at least 50 degrees and not fall below that for 24 hours after the sealant is applied. Ideally, the maximum temperature should be below 70 degrees with a relative humidity of 50 percent or less. Ideal wind speeds are around 4 mph. Sealcoating should not be exposed to precipitation for at least 24 hours. In Central Kentucky, the normal conditions match the ideal recommendations rather closely during the month of May. May is the first month in which historical overnight lows average above 50 degrees and daytime highs are just above 70 degrees. The average humidity is below 20 percent, but by July, humidity normally exceeds 60 percent. Historically, the wind speeds during May are perfect for sealcoating. The only thing that is not perfect is that May tends to be one of the rainiest months of the year in this area, so sealcoating contractors must keep a sharp eye on the weather forecasts when scheduling sealcoating