Parking lot

What Causes the Most Damage to Parking Lots?

If you have a parking lot, no matter what the size, that piece of pavement is a significant investment. And it’s also a reflection of your business! All too often, potential customers and clients are turned off by a dirty or badly damaged parking lot and/or business exterior – so much so that many times those same people will choose to take their business elsewhere. So it makes sense to do as much as you can to properly maintain your parking lot, and to avoid damage whenever you can. Here are a few of the most common causes for parking lot damage:

  • Heavy traffic – This is one that’s a little hard to avoid. After all, traffic is the reason you have a parking lot to begin with, right? Still, it’s something to remember – the more heavy traffic (especially trucks) your pavement is exposed to, the faster it will show damage; usually in the form of rutting and raveling.
  • Water damage – Whether it’s heavy rain on a regular basis or irrigation water that spills onto the paved surface, water causes damage. It seeps into tiny cracks and weakens the surface. Occasional seal coating and having cracks repaired on a regular basis can help prevent it from happening, in addition to providing adequate drainage for runoff.
  • Not maintaining the surface – Regular maintenance is a must in order to keep your pavement in tip-top shape and to extend its lifespan for as long as possible. That includes keeping the surface clean, having repairs done in a timely manner, and having the pavement seal coated on a regular basis.
  • Weather – Almost any kind of weather can have a negative impact on a paved surface after a certain period of time. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy and/or regular rainfall, and exposure to bright sunshine can result in widespread cracking, fading, potholes and more. The best way to avoid these issues is regular maintenance of the pavement to protect it from the elements.
  • Automotive fluids – Oil and gas leaks from parked vehicles can actually dissolve the adhesive in asphalt, causing the surface to deteriorate. The best way to combat this damage, in addition to seal coating, is to clean these fluids off of the pavement as soon as possible.

Preventive maintenance and routine repairs are the keys to keeping your parking lot looking good and lasting for as long as possible. Contact a reputable local paving contractor for more information.