The parking lot is one of the most critical areas of the commercial property. It is the first and last impression customers have of the business, so it needs to be well-maintained. Unfortunately, parking lots can fall into disrepair for a variety of reasons. But there are ways to prevent or fix these problems.
In this blog post, American Paving will explore the four main factors that prompt parking lot breakdown: potholes & cracks, poor drainage, UV damage, and heavy traffic. We’ll also provide some tips on how to avoid these issues.
1. Potholes & Cracks
Potholes are caused by water seeping into cracks in the asphalt and expanding when it freezes. Over time, this can cause the asphalt to break down and form a pothole. Potholes can range in size from a few inches to several feet.
Potholes & cracks are a nuisance for drivers and can cause damage to vehicles. They can also be dangerous, as they can cause accidents if a driver swerves to avoid them.
How to Prevent It?
- It’s important to fix cracks in the asphalt surface as soon as they appear.
- Sealing the asphalt is also essential to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage.
- Regular maintenance and repairs can help extend a parking lot’s life and prevent costly problems down the road.
2. Poor Drainage
When water isn’t able to drain correctly, it can pool on the surface and seep into the asphalt. As a result, poor drainage can cause the asphalt to weaken and eventually break down.
How to Prevent It?
- It’s crucial to ensure that the parking lot is sloped so that water will run off it.
- It’s also important to install drains or gutters around the parking lot’s perimeter to catch any water pooling on the surface.
- Regular maintenance and repair of these drains can help to keep them clear and prevent problems with flooding.
3. UV Damage
UV damage from the sun can also cause parking lot breakdown. The UV rays can deteriorate the asphalt binder, causing it to become brittle and crack. This can lead to potholes and other surface damage to the parking lot.
How to Prevent It?
Use an asphalt sealer that contains a UV blocker on your parking lot’s surface. This helps in protecting the asphalt from the sun’s rays and prevents it from breaking down prematurely.
4. Heavy Traffic
The constant weight of vehicles driving over the same spot can cause the asphalt to deteriorate. This is why it’s important to have a well-designed parking lot that can handle the expected traffic.
How to Prevent It?
It’s crucial to ensure that the parking lot is appropriately designed and constructed with high-quality materials.
Final Thoughts
Even the most well-constructed parking lots will eventually break down if they aren’t properly maintained. Maintenance is key to keeping your parking lot looking great and functioning smoothly. It’s also important to repair any cracks or potholes as soon as they are noticed.
American Paving offers a full range of parking lot paving and maintenance services in Monroe to keep your lot in top condition. We want our clients to have the best possible experience with their new parking lot. We educate them on all aspects of its maintenance and care.
