Your parking lot relates to safety, aesthetics, branding and functionality of your business. This makes it crucial to keep it in top shape at all times.
Although asphalt parking lot paving is strong and durable, it will need some attention every once in a while. So how often should you repave your parking lot? In this post, we tell you the right time to invest in parking lot paving and some early warning signs to watch out for.
When should you repave your parking lot?
A well-paved asphalt lot can last up to 30 years. However, the condition and lifespan of your parking lot will depend on various factors. Moreover, the importance of maintaining your parking lot can never be understated, from preserving quality and aesthetics to reducing liability and costs.
Generally, you should repave your parking lot after every two years. But sometimes, you may need to do it more or less often, depending on the condition of your lot.
Alternatively, you can wait for signs of wear and tear before repaving a parking lot.
Signs You Need to Repave Your Parking Lot
When it’s time to repave your parking lot, you will notice signs of wear and tear such as potholes, surface cracks, etc. Here are some of the most common signs that your parking lot is in need of attention:
- Plentiful potholes
- Alligator cracks
- Ruts
- Raveling
- Deteriorating joints
Plentiful potholes
Potholes stem from progression of minor damage like raveling and cracks, often left unchecked. These chuckholes are ugly and unappealing to your customers and visitors and can sometimes damage their vehicles, causing liability issues.
Therefore, once you notice several potholes in your parking lot, just know it’s time to repave.
Alligator cracks
The primary causes of alligator cracks in parking lots are old age and constant exposure to harsh weather elements. The cracks spread and deepen as the areas experience constant traffic.
Sometimes, rainy water might creep into the crevices and cause structural damage to your lot’s foundation. If you notice wide and deep cracks in your parking lot, repave right away.
Huge ruts
Cracks and depressions from moisture damage or poorly compacted parking lot pavement result in ruts. Although you can fix minor ruts with repairs, huge ruts will call for a complete parking lot repavement.
Rampant raveling
The disintegration of asphalt parking lot surface results from the dislodgement of the aggregate materials. Raveling minimizes skid resistance and roughness on your parking lot. It also exposes the layers underneath your lot to further damage. Therefore, raveling is a warning sign for your parking lot repavement.
Deteriorating joints
Slumpy parking lot joints allow water and other contaminants to infiltrate your pavement, breaking it down. So, if you notice deterioration of your joints, it might be time to repave your lot.
Watching For Signs of Damage
The lifespan of your parking lot paving depends on the amount of traffic the area receives, weather, maintenance, among other factors. Keeping your parking lot in excellent shape can reduce costs and liabilities while preserving the aesthetics and quality of your lot.
Business owners should repave their parking lots periodically, at least once after every two years. Also, they should watch out for signs of damage, including potholes, huge ruts and alligator cracks.
At Strategic Grounds, we offer all maintenance services, including lawn care, ice and snow removal and parking lot maintenance. Contact us for all your business maintenance services needs.
