Quick Answer: The best time to pave a driveway in Southern Illinois is late spring through early fall (May-October) when temperatures are consistently above 50°F. Late spring and early fall often offer the best conditions.
Ideal Paving Conditions
Asphalt paving requires specific conditions for optimal results:
- Air temperature: 50°F or higher (ideally 70-80°F)
- Ground temperature: Above 50°F
- No rain: During installation and initial curing
- Rising temperatures: Better in morning as temps climb
Season-by-Season Guide
Spring (April-May): Good to Excellent
Pros:
- Moderate temperatures
- Longer days for work
- Ground has thawed and dried
- Less demand = better scheduling
Cons:
- April can be unpredictable
- Spring rains may cause delays
Best months: Late April through May
Summer (June-August): Good
Pros:
- Consistent warm temperatures
- Asphalt stays workable longer
- Quick curing
Cons:
- Peak demand = longer wait times
- Extreme heat can make asphalt too soft
- July/August often hottest and busiest
Best months: June, early September
Fall (September-October): Excellent
Pros:
- Ideal temperatures (60-80°F)
- Lower humidity
- Less rain than spring
- Demand slowing = better pricing possible
Cons:
- Shorter window before cold
- Must complete before freezing temps
Best months: September, early October
Winter (November-March): Not Recommended
Asphalt paving should not be done when:
- Temperatures below 50°F
- Ground is frozen
- Snow or ice present
Cold temperatures prevent proper compaction and can cause the asphalt to cool too quickly, resulting in a weaker surface.
Why Temperature Matters
Hot-mix asphalt is delivered at 275-300°F and must be compacted while still hot:
- Too cold: Asphalt cools before proper compaction, creating air pockets and weak spots
- Ideal: Warm weather keeps asphalt workable for proper compaction
- Too hot: Extreme heat can make asphalt too soft to compact properly
Planning Your Project
Book Early
Quality contractors book up quickly during paving season. Contact us 2-4 weeks in advance during peak season (June-August) or 1-2 weeks during shoulder seasons.
Watch the Forecast
We monitor weather closely and may reschedule if conditions aren't optimal. This protects your investment.
Prepare Your Property
Before we arrive:
- Clear vehicles from the area
- Remove obstacles near the driveway
- Mark sprinkler heads or other underground utilities
Schedule Your Project
Ready to pave? Contact us to schedule your driveway paving project during the optimal season.