Your Parking Lot’s Makeover: Top Tips for Maintaining a Smooth and Functional Asphalt Surface

A well-maintained commercial parking lot is essential for a positive first impression and the safety of your customers and employees. Over time, however, exposure to traffic, weather, and constant use can lead to cracks, potholes, and a faded appearance. 

Luckily, with a proactive approach and some simple maintenance techniques, you can keep your asphalt parking lot in top condition, promoting both functionality and visual appeal.

So, without any further ado, let’s get started!

The best ways to maintain a smooth and functional asphalt surface

In order to maintain the smoothness and functionality of your asphalt surface, here are some tips:

1. Timely Crack Sealing

Like driveways, asphalt parking lots are susceptible to cracking due to temperature fluctuations and constant traffic. While small cracks might seem minor, they should not be ignored. 

Left unaddressed, they can widen and allow water to seep into the base material, leading to further deterioration and potentially requiring more extensive repairs. 

For cracks less than ¼ inch wide, sealing them yourself is a manageable task. However, for larger or more extensive cracks, consider consulting a professional paving company to assess the damage and recommend the most appropriate solution.

2. Proper Drainage is Key

Pooling water is a major threat to asphalt. When water sits on the surface for extended periods, it can penetrate the base material, causing it to weaken and crack. To prevent this, ensure proper drainage is in place throughout your parking lot. 

This might involve cleaning existing drains or creating new ones to direct water runoff away from the asphalt and towards designated drainage areas. Grading the asphalt surface to ensure proper water flow is also crucial.

3. Stripe a Parking Lot for Safety and Organization

Clear and well-defined parking lot striping is not just about aesthetics; it plays a vital role in promoting safety and organization within your commercial space. Over time, however, exposure to sunlight, traffic wear and tear, and harsh weather conditions can cause striping to fade or become unclear. 

Regular commercial parking lot striping is essential to maintain clear lane markings, designated parking spaces, handicap zones, and fire lanes. This not only improves the overall visual appeal of your parking lot but also ensures a safe and organized environment for drivers and pedestrians. 

Hiring a professional striping company guarantees high-quality, long-lasting paint that adheres to industry standards and local regulations.

4. Addressing Asphalt Damage

Despite your best efforts, asphalt damage is inevitable over time. The key is to address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration. 

For significant cracks, potholes, or signs of major wear and tear, consider contacting a professional paving company with experience in residential asphalt driveway repairs. While the techniques used for parking lot repairs are similar to those used for driveways, a professional can assess the specific needs of your commercial space and recommend the most appropriate repair solutions. 

They have the expertise, equipment, and manpower to handle repairs efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring a long-lasting fix.