Tar-and-chip is a well-known and cost-effective way to pave roads that produces an attractive, rustic look. However, the temperature when laying down the asphalt is pivotal in determining how successful this project will turn out! Hot liquid asphalt must be spread first, followed by stones or gravel for maximum durability.
So how warm does it need to be put down tar and chip? Read more as we’ll tackle this topic in today’s post.
The Ideal Temperature For Laying Tar And Chip
Before laying down tar and chip, it is essential to determine the ideal temperature for an effective installation. Factors like the type of asphalt, size and thickness of the stone layer, as well as weather conditions, all play a role in deciding how warm it needs to be.
To be specific, when it comes to laying down hot liquid asphalt, the ideal temperature range is between 275°F and 325°F. At these temperatures, the asphalt can spread evenly over the base layer yet still be viscous enough to bond with it. Should the asphalt become too cold, its flow will be hindered, thus obstructing a proper connection with its base; conversely, if excessively heated, blistering or cracking may occur.
Temperature plays an essential role in the application of asphalt; consequently, heavier asphalt requires a higher temperature than its lighter counterparts. As a general guideline, remember that the heavier it is, the more warmth you need.
Subsequently, the second factor to consider is the base layer temperature; it should be warm enough for efficient bonding, but not too hot, as that can lead to evaporative cooling or thermal shock issues. To achieve this, target a temperature range of 160°F to 200°F for optimal results.
Keeping the ideal temperature for laying tar and chip is essential, especially when considering the thickness of the stone layer. Generally, thicker layers require lower temperatures than thinner ones, as they take more time to harden after application. If a thick stone layer is laid out with an excessively high temperature, there is a possibility that some stones will settle into unhardened asphalt before it cools down.
When planning to lay tar and chip, weather is also an essential factor to consider. To get optimal results, one should wait for dry conditions with temperatures between 50°F and 80°F during the installation process. Too much rain or humidity can impede the asphalt’s ability to set correctly, as well as weaken the bonds between layers.
It is essential to take into account how quickly temperatures will decrease after the installation is complete. If it appears that temperatures could plunge below freezing in just a few hours, this could result in issues such as warping or splitting of the pavement.
The Best Time Of Year To Lay Down Tar And Chip
For successful tar-and-chip laying, the best time of year to begin is late spring through early fall, when temperatures are consistently between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential that both daytime and nighttime temperatures remain steady throughout the process.
When temperatures cool too drastically during the night, tar can stiffen and stones may not adhere correctly. High humidity levels should also be taken into account as they have a detrimental effect on adhesion. Rain significantly hinders proper bonding of tar and chips, so it is best to avoid laying down this material if rain is forecasted.
Who To Hire For The Tar And Chip Installation
It is important to hire an experienced contractor like JR Paving & Construction in Pittsburgh, PA, for any type of asphalt installation, including tar and chip. They should be knowledgeable about the best temperature range to lay down asphalt as well as how to store and mix the material properly. They should also have experience in dealing with specific weather conditions such as rain and high humidity levels during installation.
Furthermore, it is imperative to ensure that your contractor has a stellar reputation for top-notch work. Request references from the company and analyze online reviews to guarantee that you are cooperating with an experienced and dependable business that will do an excellent job on your tar and chip installation project.
Final Word
To sum it all up, several variables influence the temperature required for an effective tar and chip layering. Although a usual ideal range is between 275°F and 325°F of hot liquid asphalt, this number can differ depending on factors like stone layer size or climate during installation.
The ideal time to lay tar and chip is between late spring and early autumn when temperatures are typically warm, usually ranging from 75°F – 85°F. To guarantee your new pavement is installed correctly, make sure you source an experienced contractor with a solid reputation for top-notch work. With the correct planning, expertise, and experience in place – you can create a successful and enduring tar & chip installation.
