If you own or manage a commercial property, it’s important to be able to spot when your asphalt parking lot is in need of repair. This article will teach you how to identify the warning signs and take action before the problem gets worse.
One of the best features of asphalt pavement is the overall strength and durability of the material. Asphalt is cost-efficient and much more affordable than other materials, such as brick and concrete. Moreover, when properly paved, your asphalt parking lot should last up to 15-20 years.
However, all new things eventually grow tired and weathered, to the point that you’ll need to invest in some retouches and repairs.
If you’ve noticed that your parking lot has begun to look rough around the edges, it might be best to start repairs sooner than later.
Here are 4 signs that your asphalt parking lot is in need of repair.
1. Cracks
Cracks in the pavement are sometimes unavoidable. Excessive layers of seal coating on your asphalt will inevitably lead to cracking. Other times they are caused by faulty installation or the use of low-quality products.
Deep cracks found in wide areas of the asphalt pavement will only worsen with time, and they may point to underlying issues. In this case, you should consult with certified contractors before the cracks start spreading substantially.
Additionally, cracks can lead to potholes. Aside from being unsightly, they pose a risk to road safety and can cause damage to your customers’ vehicles— and you definitely don’t want to anger your loyal customers.
2. Fading
Over time, your asphalt parking lot will go from shiny black to dull gray because of oxidation. The oxidation of your pavement is a result of long-term exposure to the sun’s UV rays and nature’s other elements.
Oxidation doesn’t actually interfere with the utility of pavement, but who wants an aesthetically unappealing parking lot to represent their company?
Applying a new layer of seal coat and refilling the cracks is all you’ll need to do to restore your pavement’s old shine. This asphalt facelift shouldn’t be done more than every 3-4 years, otherwise you’ll risk the formation of unnecessary cracks.
3. Wavy
When you start seeing uneven waves on your lot, it’s likely due to long-term pressure from heavy-duty vehicles, or from a weakened base. Sometimes the fix is easy, and only the affected areas need to be filled and leveled. Other times you’ll find that both asphalt and base need to be completely replaced.
4. Puddles
Water puddles are the result of poor drainage or improper installation of the asphalt surface. When water accumulates on your pavement, it can seep through cracks and cause further damage to the base layer.
The best way to prevent this is by having a contractor evaluate your lot’s drainage system and asphalt surface.
It’s important to keep an eye out for any of the signs listed above, as they can help you prevent costly repairs and further damage to your parking lot. If you spot these warning signs early on, you’ll be able to address the issue with minimal disruption and expense.
But remember, prevention is always better than cure, so have your asphalt parking lot inspected by professionals at least once a year to keep it in tip-top shape!
5. Disintegrating edges
Poor installation practices usually are the reason for disintegrating edges around your pavement. For example, applying the asphalt past the 4-8 inch granular fill layer underneath or applying the asphalt too thinly around the edges can eventually lead to the disintegration of the edges.
This article has provided you with some basic information on how to identify signs of damage and wear and tear to your asphalt parking lot and how best to address them. By following this advice, you can ensure that your asphalt parking lot remains safe, attractive, and functional for years to come.