Can You Pave Asphalt in the Winter? Your Top Questions Answered

The short answer is yes, you can pave asphalt in the winter—but it requires the right approach. Cold temperatures, unpredictable weather and shorter days can make winter paving challenging or even unadvisable at times. However, with the right techniques and expertise, it can be viable for small commercial projects. Here are the main challenges and how Raleigh Paving overcomes them to deliver results.

What Are the Challenges of Winter Asphalt Paving?

Winter asphalt paving comes with unique roadblocks, including:

Low Temperatures

Asphalt should be applied within the ideal temperature range of 275°F to 300°F. If the air is below 50°F or the ground is below 40°F, it can cool too quickly and drop below 275°F, which may result in weak bonding, poor compaction and cracks.

Weather & Moisture

Wet conditions—whether from rain, snow or lingering moisture—can weaken asphalt’s bond to the surface. Additionally, winter winds strip away heat, making it more difficult to maintain the right temperature for installation.

Equipment Performance

Cold weather can damage or even freeze over equipment, making preheating and storage preparations essential.With 100 years of experience, Raleigh Paving has the expertise and equipment to handle smaller commercial projects in the winter.

Not sure if your project qualifies? We’re happy to provide an answer.

What are the Best Practices for Winter Asphalt Paving?

For high-quality winter paving, Raleigh Paving follows these best practices: 

• Preheating Equipment: We use hot mix asphalt and preheat our machines to maintain optimal application conditions. We also take extra precautions to prevent ice buildups and water from freezing inside machinery.
• Temperature Management: We use infrared thermometers, torches and other specialized tools to monitor the temperature of asphalt and keep it within the optimal range.
• Insulating Asphalt: Asphalt is insulated during transportation to keep it at the correct temperature for applications.
• Planning Around the Sun: We schedule work during the warmest midday hours and adjust which part of a project we’re working on based on sun exposure. As conditions shift, so does our approach, ensuring the best possible results.
• Staying Flexible: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so we adapt by paving when feasible and completing additional work once conditions improve.

Especially if you’re in need of commercial asphalt patching, crack-filling and other smaller repairs, winter is a great time to get them done with Raleigh Paving.

Frequently Asked Winter Paving Questions

What’s the best time of year to pave a commercial driveway?

Spring and summer are ideal for laying asphalt, but you can still effectively repair and maintain a driveway in the winter.

Can you lay asphalt in 30-degree weather?

While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Raleigh Paving focuses on asphalt repairs and maintenance when ground temperatures are above 40°, using specialized techniques to keep the asphalt hot and ensure proper compaction.

Does asphalt cure faster in cold weather?

No, asphalt actually cures slower in cold weather. Cooler temperatures can extend curing time, which is why Raleigh Paving takes extra steps to manage asphalt temperatures and ensure the best results.

Ready to Tackle Your Commercial Paving Project?

Don’t let winter delays hold you back. At Raleigh Paving, we have the knowledge, equipment and techniques needed to ensure every commercial project meets the highest standards. Contact us or call (919) 859-3626 today to schedule your free consultation.