August marks a transition month where summer heat begins to moderate while conditions remain favorable for maintenance work. This is an ideal time to assess how your asphalt has fared through summer and begin planning for fall maintenance activities.
Late Summer Assessment
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of your asphalt's condition in August:
- Document any new cracks that formed during summer
- Check for heat-related damage such as rutting or deformation
- Assess the condition of your sealcoating
- Identify areas where drainage problems may have developed
- Note any oil stains or chemical damage that needs treatment
- Evaluate striping visibility and condition
Addressing Summer Damage
If you identify new cracks or damage during August, this is an excellent time to address them:
- Fill new cracks with appropriate sealants while temperatures remain favorable
- Repair any rutting or surface deformation
- Treat oil stains before they penetrate deeper
- Clear drainage systems of any summer debris accumulation
August's moderate temperatures (typically mid-70s to low 80s) create acceptable conditions for crack sealing and minor repairs. Addressing issues now prevents them from worsening during fall and winter.
Planning for Fall Sealcoating
If your pavement is due for sealcoating, August is the perfect time to schedule this work for late September or early October. Fall represents another optimal window for sealcoating, with advantages including:
- Cooler temperatures that allow more controlled curing
- Protection that lasts through winter and into spring
- Reduced summer peak demand often means better scheduling
- Preparation for winter's harsh conditions
Pre-Fall Preparation Checklist
Use August to prepare for fall maintenance:
- Schedule contractor appointments for fall work
- Order necessary materials and supplies
- Budget for sealcoating, crack sealing, and repairs
- Document current condition with photos for comparison
- Plan work sequences (crack sealing before sealcoating, etc.)
Drainage Maintenance
August is an excellent time to ensure drainage systems are ready for fall and winter:
- Clear all gutters and downspouts
- Inspect and clean storm drains and catch basins
- Check for areas where water pools after rain
- Verify that pavement slopes properly toward drains
- Address any drainage problems before fall rains arrive
Striping Evaluation
Assess the condition of your parking lot striping. If lines are faded or no longer clearly visible, plan to restripe in early fall after any sealcoating work is complete. Fresh striping in fall ensures clear markings through winter when snow and ice may partially obscure lines.
Budgeting for Fall Work
August provides time to properly budget for fall maintenance. Consider costs for:
- Sealcoating (every 2-3 years)
- Crack sealing
- Pothole repair
- Line striping
- Drainage improvements
Planning ahead in August ensures you can schedule and complete all necessary fall maintenance before winter weather arrives.
At Michelson's Sealcoating, we help property owners use August effectively for assessment and planning. Our team can evaluate your asphalt's condition, recommend fall maintenance priorities, and schedule work for optimal timing. Contact us to schedule your late summer assessment and fall planning consultation.