4 FAQ About Parking Lot Maintenance
Parking lot maintenance is a vital part of property ownership. A well-preserved lot contributes to your curb appeal and can enhance the public’s perception of your business. Besides promoting a positive first impression, it can also contributes to the safety of your staff and patrons. Here is some
asphalt maintenance information to keep in mind to ensure your business's parking lot always looks its best.
A Guide to Maintaining Your Asphalt Parking Lot
What Causes Asphalt to Fail?
Parking lots naturally lose their structural integrity over time, especially if they aren’t properly maintained. Exposure to chemicals, whether pesticides applied to a neighboring lawn or oil leakage from vehicles, can also degrade the asphalt. Without proper care, heavy traffic along with a variety of environmental factors also take their toll. As the topmost level wears down, the sub-surface loses its strength and begins to crack under pressure. Those openings invite moisture inside whenever it rains, causing eventual failure.
When Should You Replace Asphalt?
Deterioration rates vary, depending largely on how much time you commit to regular asphalt maintenance. Annual appointments with a paving contractor can improve and reinforce the surface’s condition, as well as help you avoid issues like moisture intrusion and widespread damage that leads to premature erosion. If properly maintained, you can expect the lot to last for anywhere from 15 to 30 years.
When Is the Right Time to Sealcoat?
Sealcoating the surface is
crucial for its long-term strength, durability, and ability to withstand exposure to the elements, heavy traffic, and everyday pollutants. It essentially creates a barrier between the outside world and the asphalt, protecting it from damage. It’s best to do this every three years to keep it looking its best, but you may find you need to do so every couple of years if your lot is subject to considerable traffic or exposed to more chemicals.
What Impact Does Weather Have?
Potent ultraviolet rays can slowly cause the pavement to degrade, causing it to weaken with age. That lack of integrity can make it more vulnerable to moisture intrusion, which can occur whenever it rains. As the water seeps through the cracks, the lot can erode as the bonds that hold the asphalt together wear down. Over time, this process can lead to even more cracks. Performing quick repairs is the only way to avoid more widespread damage. Your technician may choose to resurface the asphalt if there are too many cracks to repair.
