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When it comes to scheduling asphalt pavingand maintenance work, not all seasons are created equal. While emergency repairs can occur year-round, summer offers the most favorable conditionsfor completing high-quality, long-lasting asphalt projects. From commercial parking lots to industrial access roads, the warmer months create ideal working conditions for both contractors and property owners.

In this article, we explore the key reasons why summer is the best time to pave, what benefits it offers in terms of performance and durability, and how businesses can prepare to take full advantage of the season.

1. Warm Temperatures Allow for Proper Asphalt Compaction

Asphalt is a temperature-sensitive material. For it to be effectively laid, spread, and compacted, it must remain hot enough to be workable during application. Summer’s consistent high temperaturesallow contractors to maintain proper working conditions, reducing the risk of premature cooling before compaction.

This results in:

  • Stronger bond between layers
  • Improved surface smoothness
  • Fewer chances of cracking or premature failure

When paving is done in cooler months, the surface temperature can drop too quickly, leading to weaker pavement and potential for long-term performance issues.

2. Faster Curing and Less Moisture Interference

Asphalt projects depend not only on the temperature but also on surface and environmental conditions. One major advantage of summer paving is reduced moisture and faster curing. Rain and humidity can interrupt the installation process, cause delays, and affect the integrity of the pavement.

During summer:

  • Surfaces dry quickly after rain
  • Sealants and binders cure more effectively
  • Maintenance projects like crack sealing andsealcoatingadhere better

Because summer brings longer dry periods and higher evaporation rates, it’s the optimal window for projects that require precise timing between layers or coatings.

3. Longer Working Hours Mean Faster Project Completion

With longer daylight hours, asphalt contractors can maximize productivityduring the summer season. This is especially valuable for commercial and industrial clients who want to minimize disruption to business operations.

More daylight means:

  • Crews can complete large-scale jobs more quickly
  • Reduced need for overnight or weekend scheduling
  • Easier coordination around tenant or delivery hours

For time-sensitive projects or facilities that can’t afford extended closures, summer scheduling provides a critical advantage.

4. Summer Damage is Easier to Address Promptly

Ironically, while summer is the best time to perform paving, it’s also when many pavement issues reveal themselves. Increased traffic, heat exposure, and thermal expansion can worsen small cracks or soft spots. That’s why it’s important to use summer not just for planned paving, but for addressing minor damage before it escalates.

Timely patching, overlay, or resurfacingduring the season prevents:

  • Costly repairs later in the year
  • Hazards to pedestrians and vehicles
  • Moisture intrusion before fall and winter

5. Perfect Season for Preventative Maintenance

Even if your asphalt is in good condition, summer is still the right time for preventative serviceslike:

  • Sealcoating– Adds a protective layer to prevent UV damage and oxidation
  • Line Striping– Restores faded markings for safety and compliance
  • Crack Sealing– Seals expansion cracks before water intrusion begins

When applied during warm, dry conditions, these treatments last longer and perform better—helping your pavement stay in excellent shape heading into colder seasons.

6. Cost-Effective Scheduling and Long-Term Value

Because summer provides ideal paving conditions, it also helps reduce labor hours, material waste, and unexpected interruptions. This translates into more predictable budgets and fewer surprisesfor property owners.

Additionally, work completed in summer typically:

  • Requires fewer touch-ups or warranty callbacks
  • Results in longer pavement lifespan
  • Offers better ROI over time

It’s not just about saving on this year’s maintenance—it’s about delaying your next major resurfacing for years to come.

7. Prepare Now for Winter Durability

What you do in summer often determines how your pavement will survive winter. Projects completed during warm weather give asphalt time to fully cure and settlebefore freeze-thaw cycles begin in fall and winter.

A summer paving schedule allows:

  • Full bonding of layers before expansion/contraction begins
  • Surface sealing before moisture intrusion
  • Structural reinforcement to handle snowplows and salt exposure

For commercial properties that need to maintain smooth traffic flow through all seasons, this preventative approach is critical.

How K & K Contracting Helps You Plan and Execute Summer Projects

At K & K Contracting, we work with property managers, developers, and commercial owners to schedule and execute summer paving projects efficiently. Serving the greater St. Louis region and surrounding Illinois communities, we understand the local weather patterns, soil conditions, and industry standards that affect pavement performance.

Our services include:

  • New Asphalt Pavingfor commercial lots, drive lanes, and roadways
  • Resurfacing and Overlaysto restore aging pavement with minimal downtime
  • Asphalt Repair & Patchworkto address surface damage quickly and effectively
  • Sealcoating and Line Stripingto protect and refresh high-use areas
  • Crack Sealingto prevent water damage and extend the lifespan of your investment

We plan our summer schedule around your operational needs, offering flexible timelines and clear communicationfrom start to finish.

Plan Ahead to Secure Your Spot

Summer is peak season in the paving industry—and demand fills up fast. If you’re considering a paving or maintenance project, now is the time to plan ahead. A proactive approach ensures you get the best materials, the most efficient crew, and the ideal conditions to get the job done right.