The pavement of a parking lot is like the red carpet into your facility, inviting customers, clients, and tenants with a promise of easy access. Just as a poorly laid red carpet can trip up the most glamorous of stars, mistakes in parking lot paving are a surefire way to stumble in your property management endeavors. Here’s a look at the top five parking lot paving errors to avoid in this crucial aspect of facility maintenance.
Choosing the Wrong Asphalt Mix
Selecting the right mix of asphalt for your parking lot is critical for smooth paving. Many facility owners make the error of opting for a cheaper mix to cut costs, only to end up with a crumbling lot far earlier than expected. The incorrect blend can lead to issues like premature wear and tear, surface roughness, and even safety hazards.
Designing Drainage Improperly
Drainage is a major concern with paved surfaces, especially in parking lots that sustain both heavy vehicle use and erratic weather conditions. Poorly designed or maintained drainage systems can result in water pooling, which can lead to potholes, cracks, and structural damage to the asphalt.
Without sloping and catch basins, your parking lot issues could become recurring problems. To extend the lifespan of your parking lot, we recommend getting your property surveyed for proper drainage designs.
Neglecting To Seal Cracks and Repave Regularly
Regular upkeep of your parking lot is a must. Neglecting to seal cracks can allow water and debris to infiltrate the sublayers, accelerating the degradation process. Waiting too long to repave can also send a negative signal to customers visiting your storefront. Just as signage is a major marketing tool, your parking lot is the first impression of your store. A well-paved parking area often means a clean and organized store.
Skimping on Proper Base Preparation
Another parking lot paving mistake to avoid is cutting corners on the base preparation. The foundation of your parking lot is as important as the surface. The stability of a parking lot hinges on the base layer, which provides support to withstand the weight of vehicles and pedestrians. Without adequate compaction, the surface may become uneven, leading to water pooling and potholes expanding.
Preparing this layer correctly before paving is critical. It involves removing soil and debris, subgrade compaction, and the addition of crushed stone or gravel for enhanced drainage and stability. Overlooking the importance of a properly prepared base can result in drainage problems, potholes, and cracks.
Overlooking the Importance of Professional Application
Sometimes, it’s best to leave these projects to the professionals. You could make the mistake of choosing inexperienced or unprofessional paving contractors in the race to complete construction or renovation projects. The consequences can be dire, with instances of misaligned parking lines, uneven surfaces, and unattractive finishes.
Investing in a well-paved parking lot is a clear commitment to the longevity and appeal of your business. Alleviating parking lot pains not only enhances the aesthetic and functionality of your lot but also serves as a testament to your commitment to maintaining a high standard across all aspects of your operation.
- Solar Accessories To Inspect During Maintenance - March 18, 2025
- Reasons Your Office Needs Beautiful Outdoor Spaces - March 18, 2025
- Thinking of Going Solo? 4 Signs You’re Ready To Own Your Rig - March 18, 2025