Asphalt can withstand heavy loads and requires little to no maintenance. As such, asphalt parking lots can last for many years. While this is true, they still need regular maintenance and repair to preserve their lifespan. A routine checkup from an asphalt professional like Dominic’s Paving can help.
Contact us at (301) 916-8770 for a consultation and a free estimate today!
While asphalt is a durable product, it wears over time. The elements that contribute to the damage include:
Water infiltration through cracks and pores is one of the primary causes of asphalt deterioration. It can weaken the underlying layers, leading to potholes and cracks over time.
Spills from vehicles, such as gasoline, motor oil, and deicing chemicals, penetrate the asphalt surface, causing chemical degradation. These substances weaken the asphalt binder and accelerate the breakdown of the asphalt mix.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can degrade the asphalt binder (bitumen), causing oxidation and loss of flexibility. This results in brittleness and cracking of the asphalt surface.
Freeze-thaw cycles and temperature variations can cause expansion and contraction of the asphalt pavement. This repeated stress weakens the asphalt structure, leading to cracks and surface deterioration.
Constant traffic, especially from heavy vehicles, stresses the asphalt pavement. Over time, this can lead to rutting, depressions, and structural damage, accelerating the need for repairs.
Inadequate drainage, improper compaction during construction, and lack of routine maintenance (such as crack sealing and sealcoating) can worsen the effects of other damaging elements, reducing the lifespan of asphalt surfaces.
Investing in parking lot asphalt maintenance offers a multitude of benefits that significantly contribute to the overall functionality and appeal of commercial properties. Here are some compelling reasons to prioritize parking lot maintenance:
Regular maintenance protects the asphalt from harsh weather conditions, UV radiation, and chemical spills. This prevents cracks and potholes from forming, thereby extending the lifespan of the parking lot pavement. In the long run, regular maintenance saves property owners substantial costs associated with extensive repairs or premature resurfacing.
Well-maintained parking lots provide a safe environment for pedestrians and vehicles alike. Smooth surfaces with clearly marked lines and signage minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. This reduction in safety hazards not only fosters a secure environment but also mitigates potential liability issues for property owners.
Regular upkeep enhances the visual appeal of parking lots, making a positive first impression on customers, tenants, and visitors. This positively affects the overall property image, contributing to higher tenant retention rates and increased property value.
Maintaining a well-marked and smooth parking lot facilitates efficient traffic flow, easing navigation and parking for customers and tenants. The operational efficiency created enhances the overall customer experience, promoting repeat visits and tenant satisfaction.
Proper maintenance practices not only preserve the structural integrity of the asphalt but also contribute to environmental sustainability. Sealcoating and crack sealing reduce the need for raw materials and energy-intensive reconstruction, which aligns with sustainable property management practices.
Investing in parking lot asphalt maintenance offers a multitude of benefits that significantly contribute to the overall functionality and appeal of commercial properties.
Some common maintenance procedures include asphalt patching and sealing. The procedure you choose depends on the extent.
Asphalt patching is a process done to maintain the integrity of the asphalt surface. It involves filling the damaged areas with a new asphalt mixture. Some clients opt to use hot mix asphalt (HMA), while others choose cold mix asphalt (CMA).
Both materials have different preparation techniques, and hot-mix asphalt is more expensive than cold-mix asphalt. Generally, the hot mix asphalt takes longer to prepare.
Another option to keep your driveway looking great all year round is applying sealant. Sealants are applied on top of existing asphalt driveways to protect against dirt and moisture and help prevent cracking and peeling. Several types of sealants are available, such as penetrating sealants, chip-resistant sealers, and waterproofing sealants.
These types of sealants fall into two broad categories:
Liquid sealants penetrate deep into the asphalt and form a protective layer over the surface. They’re ideal for small repairs and are usually mixed using a brush. They can also be sprayed onto the road using a sprayer. When applying liquid sealants, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Powder sealants do not penetrate deeply into the asphalt; instead, they create a thin film of a rubber-like substance that protects the surface. These are ideal for large jobs because they can be spread evenly across a wide area without causing any mess.
Dominic’s Paving has been serving the residents of Virginia, Maryland, and DC since 1996. Our team is experienced and skilled enough to provide successful maintenance solutions.
If you’d like to preserve the durability of your asphalt parking lot, contact our team today at (301) 916-8770 for a consultation.