The pavement around your business is a big investment, so it only makes sense to protect that investment in whatever way you can. Pavement needs to withstand not only heavy use from traffic, it also needs to be protected from harsh weather conditions. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to increase the lifespan of your parking lot asphalt and protect your investment.
- Protect it from water damage. One of the biggest culprits when it comes to damaged asphalt is water. Asphalt is made of aggregates and an oil-based binding material. If that binder dries out, it makes it easier for water to penetrate the surface. When water is allowed to seep into asphalt, it causes cracks. Your asphalt pavement should include effective drainage features so water doesn’t accumulate on the surface. It should also be seal coated on a regular basis so the oil-based binder doesn’t dry out and make the surface more susceptible to water damage.
- Protect it from the sun. Living in a sunny climate is an advantage in many ways, but it can be hard on an asphalt surface. The sun’s rays dry out the oil-based binder in asphalt, and that causes oxidation. When that happens, the surface is more prone to cracking and crumbling. Once again, seal coating is an excellent way to protect the asphalt surface from the sun.
- Fill cracks to prevent further damage. Whenever you notice cracks in your asphalt surface, have them repaired right away. Seal coating can repair small cracks and prevent them from becoming larger. Whatever damage you have – cracks, potholes, oxidation, etc. — should be repaired as quickly as possible to protect the surface from developing more extensive damage.
To extend the lifespan of your asphalt parking lot and protect your investment, there are two important words that you should remember: maintenance and repair. Contact a reputable paving company and ask their paving specialists what kind of maintenance schedule they recommend for your pavement. Scheduled maintenance will vary depending on what type of climate your surface is exposed to. In colder climates, the freeze/thaw cycle can be hard on paved surfaces. But hot climates present their own challenges as well. Follow the advice of a trained paving specialist, and remember to call them right away if you see damage on the surface. A well-maintained asphalt parking lot that is repaired promptly whenever necessary should last for many years.