APE October 2025 | Page 22

FEATURE
• Heavy asphalt oxidation: Sunlight and age can take a toll on asphalt and cause it to turn brittle and less cohesive, which may require the removal and replacement of large portions or even the addition of new liquid asphalt for a more durable repair.
• Wet areas: Water reflects infrared heat, which Stepp says prevents it from penetrating and properly heating the blacktop.
• Extreme cold and windy conditions: Infrared repair efficiency drops rapidly in extreme cold( below 20 degrees Fahrenheit including wind chill). Wind can exacerbate cold weather challenges by accelerating heat loss.
Photo courtesy of North American Infrared
• Quality of original material: Stepp says not all asphalt is created equal. Some repairs may not be suitable candidates for infrared patching depending on the original product and its changes over years of sun, weather and traffic.
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