175 ° F – 185 ° F before compaction is complete, achieving density becomes difficult. In cases where the surface is simply too cold, it is better to pause the job than install pavement that will not perform. For projects that do not meet the required paving temperatures, it may be more appropriate to utilize a patcher truck for low-temperature repairs rather than proceeding with full asphalt paving, depending on the size and scope of the work. Equipment preparation becomes even more critical when temperatures drop. Cold steel will pull heat out of hot asphalt, so screeds, augers, conveyors, and hand tools should all be warmed before operations begin. Keeping the screed plate at a consistent temperature helps prevent tearing and texture issues, and rollers should be thoroughly warmed up before they begin compaction. Properly prepared equipment preserves heat in the mix and leads to smoother results from the first pull. New electric heated screeds
“ Warm-mix asphalt has become one of the most effective tools for cold-weather paving.”
with auto temperature controls really help maintain the proper heat for the asphalt screed. When it comes to transporting mix, time and temperature are closely linked. Haul routes should be kept as short as possible, and trucks should be insulated or well-tarped to prevent unnecessary heat loss. Truck arrivals should be timed to maintain continuous paving, so mix does not sit cooling on site. Protecting the mix during transport directly affects density and final pavement quality. Lift thickness should also be adjusted to match cold-weather conditions. Thin lifts cool extremely quickly and can become unworkable before compaction is completed. For winter paving, surface lifts are typically kept between 1.5 and 2 inches, and ultra-thin overlays should be avoided unless warm-mix additives are being used. A slightly thicker lift can retain heat longer, giving the crew more time to achieve proper density. Warm-mix asphalt has become one of the most effective tools for cold-weather paving. Warm-mix technologies lower the required compaction temperature by 30 ° F to 70 ° F, extend the working window, and improve mix workability. This helps crews achieve density without racing the clock and often determines whether a winter paving project stays on schedule.
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[ 29 ] January 2026