Air and Pavement Temperature

Under questionable temperature or weather conditions, the temperature of the pavement surface and ambient air temperature must be checked to ensure that the temperatures are in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. Pavement temperature should be measured in accordance with Test Method . Pavement temperature is often measured with an infrared thermometer. Different materials require different surface and air temperatures to achieve proper bonding or curing. Wind chills should always be considered when determining ambient air temperature. Wind speed also affects the accuracy of the drop-on bead application. Markings using drop-on beads should not be placed on days with excessively high winds.
Table 3-1 presents general guidelines taken from manufacturer or research recommendations. Note that these are general suggestions. Always refer to specific manufacturer’s temperature requirements if discrepancies arise.
Table 3-1. Minimum Air and Pavement Surface Temperatures
Material
Minimum Air and Pavement Temperature
Water-Based Paint
40°F
Thermoplastic
55°F
Preformed Tapes
Varies with manufacturer and adhesive
Epoxy
35°F
Polyurea
32°F
Methyl Methacrylate
35°F