The Best Time of Year to Pave a Driveway in Virginia

Virginia Has a Wide Paving Window

Good news for Virginia homeowners: compared to northern states, Virginia's climate allows for a long paving season — roughly April through November in most years.

But not all months are equal.

By Season

Spring (April to May): Excellent

Early spring is one of the best times to pave in Virginia:

• Ground temperatures have come up from winter
• Daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s are ideal for HMA laydown
• No extreme heat to cause premature surface hardening
• Projects scheduled in spring beat the summer rush

Summer (June to August): Good (with caveats)

Summer works well, but very hot days (90 degrees F and above) require extra care:

• Material needs to be placed and compacted before it cools too much
• Crews work early mornings on the hottest days
• High demand season — book early

Fall (September to October): Best

September and October are arguably the optimal months for driveway paving in Virginia:

• Temperatures in the 60s and 75s are perfect for asphalt
• Lower demand than peak summer
• Paving now means it is cured before winter freeze
• Sealcoating can follow in the same season

Late Fall and Winter (November to March): Risky

November can work in central and southern Virginia — but it is weather-dependent. Once overnight temperatures regularly drop below 40 degrees F, paving quality is hard to guarantee.

Most reputable contractors will not pave when temperatures are forecast to drop below 40 degrees F within 24 hours of installation.

The Virginia Homeowner Checklist

Before scheduling your paving project:

• Check the 5-day forecast for sustained temperatures above 50 degrees F
• No rain forecast for 24 hours post-paving
• Ground is dry (not saturated from recent heavy rain)
• Fall work: schedule sealcoating for the following spring

Get on the schedule for this season