Asphalt parking lots are an essential part of properties, and they require proper maintenance to last for a long time. Once you install a new asphalt parking lot, it’s crucial to take care of it to avoid costly repairs and replacements. In this article, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of caring for your new asphalt parking lot.

Dos

Taking care of your asphalt parking lot can be tricky if you don’t know what to do. Below are some tips to guide you on the maintenance of your asphalt parking lot.

1. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning your parking lot regularly is essential to maintain its appearance and extend its lifespan. Keeping the asphalt surface free of debris, dirt, and other contaminants will prevent them from breaking down the surface of your pavement. Use a broom or blower to remove debris, and pressure wash your parking lot at least once a year to keep it clean.

2. Sealcoat

Sealcoating is a protective layer applied to the surface of your asphalt parking lot to protect it from the elements. It helps to prevent water from penetrating the asphalt surface, which can cause cracks and potholes. Sealcoating also helps to enhance the appearance of your parking lot by creating a smooth, uniform surface. It is recommended that you sealcoat your parking lot every two to three years.

3. Proper Drainage

Proper drainage is crucial for the longevity of your asphalt parking lot. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate on the surface, leading to cracks and potholes. Ensure that your parking lot has proper drainage systems, such as catch basins and drainage swales, to prevent water from pooling on the surface.

4. Address Cracks and Potholes Immediately

Cracks and potholes can develop on your parking lot surface over time. Immediate repair of these damages is crucial to prevent further deterioration of your asphalt surface. Addressing these issues promptly can also save you money in the long run, as small cracks and potholes can quickly turn into larger, more costly repairs.

5. Regular Inspections

Regular inspections of your asphalt parking lot are crucial to identifying potential issues early on. Inspect your parking lot regularly for cracks, potholes, and other damages. Addressing these issues early on can prevent them from becoming more significant problems that require costly repairs.

Don’ts

Aside from doing certain tasks, there are also various things to avoid. Here are some things you shouldn’t be doing with your asphalt parking lot.

1. Heavy Loads

Avoid placing heavy loads on your asphalt parking lot surface. Heavy loads can cause the surface to crack and deteriorate over time, leading to costly repairs. If you need to place heavy loads on your parking lot, ensure that it is properly reinforced to handle the weight.

2. Chemical Spills

Chemical spills, such as oil or gasoline, can cause significant damage to your asphalt parking lot. These spills can break down the surface of your pavement, causing it to deteriorate and eventually lead to cracks and potholes. If you have a spill on your parking lot, clean it up immediately to prevent damage.

3. Parking in the Same Spot

Parking in the same spot on your asphalt parking lot surface can cause the surface to deteriorate over time. The weight of the vehicle can cause the asphalt to compress, leading to cracks and potholes. Encourage visitors to park in different spots to prevent this from happening.

4. Using Salt

Salt can be used to melt snow and ice during the winter months, but it can also cause damage to your asphalt parking lot. Salt can break down the surface of your pavement, leading to cracks and potholes. Use salt sparingly, and if possible, use an alternative de-icing agent.

5. Ignoring Drainage Issues

Ignoring drainage issues can lead to significant damage to your asphalt parking lot. Without proper drainage, water can accumulate on the surface, leading to cracks and potholes. Regularly inspect your parking lot for drainage issues and address them promptly.

Conclusion

Caring for your new asphalt parking lot requires regular maintenance and attention to detail. Regular cleaning, sealcoating, proper drainage, addressing cracks and potholes immediately, and regular inspections are all essential dos. Avoid placing heavy loads, chemical spills, parking in the same spot, using salt, and ignoring drainage issues are critical don’ts. Following these dos and don’ts will help ensure that your asphalt parking lot lasts for a long time and saves you money in the long run.