As we enter the final month of summer, August presents unique challenges for asphalt surfaces across New Jersey. With temperatures still soaring and the fall season approaching, now is the critical time to assess and protect your pavement investment. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate August's specific maintenance needs.
🌡️ August Heat Alert
August often brings the year's highest sustained temperatures. With pavement temperatures reaching 140°F+ on sunny days, your asphalt needs special attention to prevent heat damage.
Why August Maintenance Matters
The Perfect Storm of Conditions
August creates a challenging environment for asphalt surfaces:
- Accumulated Summer Damage: Three months of heat stress takes its toll
- Peak UV Exposure: Intense sun continues to break down binder materials
- Thermal Cycling: Hot days and cooler nights create expansion/contraction stress
- Pre-Fall Preparation: Last chance to address issues before temperature drops
- Heavy Traffic: End-of-summer activities increase vehicle loads
Critical August Maintenance Tasks
1. Comprehensive Surface Inspection
August is ideal for thorough pavement assessment:
- • Check for heat-induced cracks
- • Identify soft spots or rutting
- • Assess oxidation levels
- • Document drainage issues
- • Map areas needing repair
2. Heat Damage Prevention
Protect against ongoing summer stress:
- • Apply reflective sealcoating
- • Fill cracks before they expand
- • Address ponding water areas
- • Install proper drainage
- • Consider shade structures
3. Pre-Fall Preparation
Get ahead of autumn challenges:
- • Seal all cracks before cold weather
- • Ensure proper water runoff
- • Repair potholes completely
- • Update line striping
- • Clear debris from edges
4. Protective Treatments
August applications for year-round protection:
- • Professional-grade sealcoating
- • Hot rubber crack filling
- • Rejuvenating treatments
- • Edge reinforcement
- • Surface restoration
August-Specific Challenges in New Jersey
Shore Traffic Impact
August brings peak shore traffic through our area. The increased vehicle loads, especially on Fridays and Sundays, can accelerate pavement wear. Plus, summer concert events at Independence Park add even more parking pressure to local neighborhoods. Key considerations:
- • Monitor high-traffic areas for rutting
- • Check entrance/exit points for damage
- • Ensure parking lot striping is visible
- • Address any safety hazards immediately
Back-to-School Preparation
With schools reopening in early September, August is crucial for educational facilities:
- • Repair all trip hazards in walkways
- • Refresh crosswalk markings
- • Ensure ADA compliance
- • Update bus lane designations
- • Complete major repairs before students return
💡 Professional Tip
August maintenance isn't just about fixing current problems—it's about preventing fall and winter damage. Every crack sealed now prevents water infiltration that could freeze and cause major damage later.
DIY vs. Professional August Maintenance
| Task | DIY Feasibility | Professional Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Inspection | ✓ Yes | For detailed assessment |
| Crack Filling | Small cracks only | ✓ For best results |
| Sealcoating | ✗ Not recommended | ✓ Always |
| Pothole Repair | ✗ Temporary only | ✓ For lasting repair |
| Line Striping | ✗ Not recommended | ✓ For compliance |
The Randy's Advantage for August Maintenance
At Randy Seal Coating & Striping, we understand August's unique challenges. Our approach includes:
Heat-Resistant Materials
We use commercial-grade products specifically formulated to withstand extreme temperatures and provide lasting protection through seasonal transitions.
Rapid Response Service
August's busy schedules demand flexibility. We offer evening and weekend appointments to minimize disruption to your operations.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our free August evaluations identify all issues and provide a prioritized maintenance plan to maximize your budget's impact.
Fall Preparation Focus
Every August service includes preparation for fall weather, ensuring your pavement is ready for temperature drops and increased moisture.
August Maintenance Checklist
Weekly August Tasks:
- □Inspect for new heat cracks every Monday
- □Check drainage after any rainfall
- □Monitor high-traffic areas for wear
- □Clear debris from pavement edges
- □Document any changes or damage
Critical August Projects:
- □Schedule professional assessment by August 15th
- □Complete all crack sealing by August 31st
- □Apply sealcoating if due (check 2-3 year cycle)
- □Update parking lot striping for fall
- □Address all safety hazards immediately
Cost Considerations for August Maintenance
August maintenance is an investment that pays dividends:
- Preventive Crack Sealing: $500-$1,500 can prevent $5,000-$15,000 in future repairs
- Timely Sealcoating: $0.20-$0.40 per sq ft protects against $3-$5 per sq ft replacement
- Minor Repairs Now: Save 75% compared to major reconstruction later
- Professional Assessment: FREE evaluation identifies cost-saving priorities
🌟 August Special Offer
Book your August maintenance service and receive:
- • 15% off sealcoating services
- • Free crack sealing with any parking lot project
- • Priority scheduling for back-to-school properties
- • Extended warranty on all August applications
Looking Ahead: September Preparation
August maintenance sets the stage for fall success. By addressing issues now, you'll be ready for:
- • September's increased school traffic
- • October's falling leaves and moisture
- • November's temperature drops
- • Winter's freeze-thaw cycles
Take Action This August
Don't let August slip away without protecting your asphalt investment. With September fast approaching and winter not far behind, now is the time to ensure your pavement is ready for whatever weather comes next.
Schedule Your Free August Assessment
Our experts will evaluate your pavement and provide a customized maintenance plan to protect your investment through fall and winter.
About the Author: Randy Franco is the owner of Randy Seal Coating & Striping, bringing over 15 years of experience in asphalt maintenance to Union and Essex County properties. As a lifelong New Jersey resident, Randy understands the unique challenges our climate presents and is committed to helping property owners protect their pavement investments year-round.