Asphalt is known as the “workhorse” of parking lots because of its ability to withstand heavy usage while remaining cost-effective and easy to repair. As such, asphalt parking lots are a common feature of commercial properties.
When well-maintained, these spaces can be attractive and useful. Neglected asphalt parking lots, on the other hand, present problems for businesses and property owners. They are often littered with potholes, cracks, eroded areas and other signs of deterioration.
It’s important to stay on top of routine maintenance in order to extend your asphalt parking lot’s lifespan and avoid costly repairs down the road.
If you aren’t sure whether your lot needs maintenance or if you simply want to reduce the risk of dangerous potholes, read on for potential warning signs that indicate your lot needs attention from asphalt contractors in St. Petersburg, FL.
Table of Contents
1. Potholes
Asphalt parking lots often develop small potholes on the surface, especially in high-traffic areas. They can be caused by poor design or improper construction, or by poor maintenance practices.
These potholes can be filled with a quick-setting asphalt mixture designed for this purpose. Likewise, large holes in the asphalt can be repaired with a patch, which can be removed once the underlying asphalt has been fully repaired.
2. Cracked Asphalt
As a parking lot ages, it is normal for cracks to develop in the asphalt. These cracks, however, can let water seep into the asphalt and cause more extensive damage. If ignored, water may freeze in winter months, causing the asphalt to expand and crack further.
A longer-term solution is to regrade the asphalt in the affected area so that water is not allowed to collect. Alternatively, you can use an asphalt sealer to plug existing cracks. This approach helps to prevent water from entering the asphalt and should be repeated at regular intervals to be effective.
3. Eroded Areas
Eroded areas in asphalt parking lots usually indicate a drainage problem. If water is not flowing away from the parking lot quickly enough, it may erode the surrounding asphalt. This may be due to a blocked gutter or misaligned drain.
In most cases, asphalt contractors in St. Petersburg, FL, will have to remove and replace the affected asphalt. It is best to prevent eroded patches by keeping the gutters clean and clear of any obstructions. Likewise, regularly inspect the drainage in and around your parking lot to identify any problems before they become significant.
You may also want to consider installing water bars in high-risk areas. These are raised strips of asphalt designed to channel water away from the parking lot quickly and efficiently.
4. Dark Colored Patches
Dark-colored patches in the asphalt often indicate tire scuffing. This is most common in commercial parking lots, where heavy vehicles park regularly, causing excess wear on those parts of the asphalt.
Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect the parking lot and remove scuffed asphalt before it damages the underlying surface. This can be done easily with a cold chip seal. This is a quick, two-step process for repairing asphalt.
First, a sealer is applied to the surface. This works to plug existing cracks, preventing water from entering the asphalt. Next, a topping material is spread over the sealer. This is usually a type of crushed stone that blends in with the existing asphalt.
5. Incorrect Asphalt Type or Mix
The type and mix of asphalt used to pave a parking lot can have a significant impact on its life and appearance. For this reason, you must ensure that you have the correct asphalt for your parking lot.
Ideally, you should hire asphalt contractors in St. Petersburg, FL, to analyze your asphalt parking lot and recommend the best type of asphalt for the job.
In Conclusion
When it comes to asphalt lots, ongoing maintenance is essential. Not only do well-maintained lots look nicer and last longer, but they’re also safer for your customers.
Some of the most common problems in asphalt parking lots include potholes, cracks, eroded areas and incorrect asphalt types or mixes. It is important to identify warning signs problems early and address them promptly to maintain a good-looking lot.
