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Can you lay asphalt in the rain?

Laying asphalt in wet weather is a common concern for contractors, councils, and DIYers. Traditional hot mix asphalt should never be laid in the rain, as it compromises durability and bonding. But what about EZ Street?

Thanks to its innovative formulation, you can lay asphalt in the rain, if you’re using the right product.

When it comes to EZ Street’s Ambient™ Asphalt, rainy weather is water off a duck’s back. So long as you’re using our product, you won’t need to reschedule that upcoming project over inclement weather. That asphalt repair patch will ensure, come rain or come shine, be the project in process or recently finished. You can even get to work on a water-filled pothole!

Why traditional asphalt fails in the rain

When rainwater mixes with hot asphalt, several issues can show up:

  • Improper compaction – wet surfaces prevent the asphalt from compacting properly
  • Steam formation – moisture can create steam, leading to cracks and voids
  • Bonding failure – water stops the asphalt from bonding to the underlying surface

This is why laying hot mix asphalt in the rain is not recommended. It results in weak, short-lived pavement.

Can you lay asphalt in the rain with EZ Street?

Yes! EZ Street Ambient Asphalt is specially formulated to work in wet conditions, including rainy weather and water-filled potholes. It is a polymer modified asphalt designed for flexibility, durability, and year-round performance.

Whether it’s drizzling or the pothole is holding water, you can lay asphalt in the rain with EZ Street.

Benefits of using EZ Street Ambient Asphalt in wet weather

  • Works in standing water – no need to wait for the surface to dry
  • No heavy equipment needed – just shovel, pour, and compact
  • Immediate traffic-ready surface – no cure time required
  • Long-lasting – holds up under traffic and weather conditions

This makes EZ Street a smart choice for councils, contractors, and property managers needing reliable, all-weather pothole repairs.

How to lay asphalt in the rain with EZ Street

Follow these simple steps for effective wet-weather repairs:

  1. Clear the area – remove any loose debris or vegetation
  2. Don’t drain the water – EZ Street can be applied in water-filled holes
  3. Pour the asphalt – slightly overfill the pothole to allow for compaction
  4. Compact – use a hand tamper or drive over it with a vehicle

Tip – For deeper holes, apply in layers and compact each one.

When not to lay asphalt in the rain

Even with EZ Street’s capabilities, there are a few exceptions:

  • Heavy, driving rain – If the rainfall is too intense, it may wash out the material before it can be compacted
  • Freezing temperatures – If water freezes in the pothole, wait until it thaws

Still, EZ Street remains one of the few products that allow you to lay asphalt in the rain safely and effectively.

Why this matters for road maintenance teams

Weather delays can slow down road repair schedules. Using a product that works in the rain means:

  • Less downtime
  • Lower costs from fewer repeat repairs
  • Safer roads, faster

Conclusion: Can you lay asphalt in the rain? Yes – If it’s EZ Street

To answer the question once and for all – Can you lay asphalt in the rain? Yes, you can – with EZ Street Ambient Asphalt. While traditional hot mix fails in wet weather, EZ Street asphalt lets you keep working, rain, hail or shine.

Ready to tackle potholes despite the weather? Enquire about our products now and see why professionals rely on it for year-round repairs.

 

 

EZ STREET®, Ambient, and Bioblends® are Registered Trademarks of Asphalt Research Technology, Inc, Miami, Florida 33176.
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