A parking lot is a significant investment for any business. It’s often one of the first things customers see when they visit your premises, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. Unfortunately, over time, all parking lots will degrade and fall into disrepair. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the top reasons for parking lot degradation so that you can be aware of the potential risks and take steps to avoid them.
Poor Drainage
One of the most common reasons for parking lot degradation is poor drainage. When water isn’t properly drained away from a parking lot, it can pool on the surface and cause damage to the asphalt. Over time, this can lead to cracks, potholes, and other forms of deterioration. To avoid this, make sure that your parking lot has adequate drainage and that any gutters and downspouts are clear of debris.
Incorrect Asphalt Mix
Another reason why parking lots degrade is because of an incorrect asphalt mix. Asphalt is made up of a variety of different materials, including aggregate (crushed stone), sand, binder (asphalt cement), and filler (lime or other materials). If any of these ingredients are not present in the correct proportion, it can weaken the asphalt and make it more susceptible to damage.
Heavy Traffic
Heavy traffic is also a common cause of parking lot degradation. When vehicles repeatedly travel over the same stretch of pavement, they will eventually start to break down and show signs of wear and tear. This is why it’s important to have a regular maintenance schedule in place so that any problems can be addressed before they become too serious.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Finally, extreme weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold can also damage a parking lot. Exposure to sunlight can cause the asphalt to soften and become more malleable while freezing temperatures can cause it to crack and chip. While there’s not much you can do to prevent weather-related damage, you can minimize it by having a regular maintenance schedule in place.
These are just some of the top reasons for parking lot degradation. By being aware of these potential risks, you can take steps to avoid them and keep your parking lot in good condition for longer. If you have any concerns about the condition of your parking lot, don’t hesitate to contact us, Chris Paving LLC, for advice.