A well-maintained parking lot is crucial to any business’s successful operation, as it provides a clean, safe and convenient space for customers to park their vehicles. While asphalt is a very durable material for parking lots, it can still be susceptible to damage over time. In this article, we will share five tips on how to help keep your asphalt parking lot in great shape.
Regular Parking Lot Cleaning
The first step in maintaining a parking lot, before virtually anything else, is to keep it clean. Dirt, debris, rocks and other materials can build up on the surface over time, leading to discoloration and unnecessary wear. Regular cleaning can help prevent this from happening. Use a broom or a leaf blower to remove loose debris and dirt from the surface, or hire a parking lot sweeping company to sweep your parking lot on a daily or weekly basis. Power washing can also be scheduled in intervals to remove tough stains that may accumulate over time and possibly even damage the asphalt surface itself.
Fill Asphalt Parking Lot Cracks and Potholes
Cracks and potholes are generally very common in parking lots, and they can worsen and become bigger issues if left unaddressed. Cracks in asphalt allow water to penetrate beneath the surface, which can likely cause further damage and create an unstable base which can lead to potholes. While potholes themselves can create hazards for vehicles and pedestrians, as well as leave a bad impression on customers visiting your location. It’s a good idea to fill in any cracks and as well as potholes to help keep a safe surface for your customers and to help your asphalt parking lot last longer and look better.
Sealcoating Your Asphalt Parking Lot
Sealcoating an asphalt parking lot adds a protective layer to the surface of the asphalt to protect it from weather damage, water penetration, and other forms of wear and tear. This layer helps prevent cracks, potholes, and other forms of damage and can extend the life of your parking lot. Not only does sealcoating protect your parking lot, it creates a smooth a clean surface that makes the parking lot look almost new. Sealcoating should be done every few years to keep your parking lot looking great.
Drainage Maintenance
Proper drainage is critical in maintaining a parking lot. If water accumulates on the surface, it can cause damage to the asphalt, eventually leading to cracks and potholes. It’s best to make sure that your parking lot’s drainage system is functioning correctly by checking for clogs or blockages in the drains and ensuring that the drainage slopes away from the building. Clean the drains regularly or hire a company to complete preventative maintenance to help prevent problems in the future.
Regular Inspections Can be Key
Regular inspections of your asphalt parking lot by a professional can be key in identifying potential problems before they arise. A professional will generally have the experience to spot a potential issue before it arrises and can provide you with recommendations or solutions on how to address any future issues.
Maintaining your parking lot’s asphalt surface is essential to ensuring its longevity, safety and good looks. By understanding these five tips, you can take a step in the right direction on keeping your investment into your parking lot in excellent condition and ensure that it remains a safe and convenient space for your customers to park. If you need assistance with parking lot asphalt maintenance, contact a reputable paving contractor to discuss your options.
