Tips for Maintaining Your Business’ Asphalt Parking Lot

A well-maintained asphalt parking lot is crucial for any business as proper upkeep not only extends the life of the pavement, but also helps avoid costly repairs down the line.Whether you’re a seasoned property manager or a new business owner, our Greater Jacksonville, FL, asphalt paving contractor can help you reap the benefits that come with keeping your parking lot in top condition, ensuring a welcoming and safe environment for all visitors.

Regular Inspections

One of the most effective ways to maintain a commercial asphalt parking lot is through regularly planned inspections. By conducting routine checks, potential issues can be made apparent early and addressed before they escalate into more significant repairs. Our asphalt contractor recommends you inspect your parking lot at least once a month, paying close attention to common problem areas such as cracks, potholes, and drainage systems. Look also for signs of wear and tear, including fading lines and oil stains. 

If you’re concerned about what’s found during a quick peek at your lot, our team at First Coast Asphalt Solutions is here to help. We provide a variety of asphalt maintenance services that are all designed to refresh, restore, and prolong your pavement surfaces.

Timely Crack Repair

No matter how hard you try, cracks in your asphalt parking lot are inevitable due to temperature changes, traffic load, and natural aging. However, timely asphalt crack repair is crucial to preventing anything from developing into a larger problem. For example, when water seeps into cracks, it can weaken the sub-base, leading to potholes and more extensive damage. 

While high-quality crack filler works to seal any minor cracks soon after they appear and prevents water infiltration, larger cracks require the expertise of our professional asphalt paving company to ensure the job is done correctly.

Sealcoating

Sealcoating is a vital maintenance step that provides a protective layer over your asphalt parking lot, shielding it from harmful UV rays, water, oil, and chemicals. It largely helps prevent cracks and potholes while also giving your parking lot a fresh, new appearance. 

Typically, asphalt sealcoating should be done every 2-3 years, depending on the amount of traffic and exposure to the elements. Sealcoating not only extends the life of your asphalt but also enhances its aesthetic appeal, making a positive impression on customers and clients.

Proper Drainage

Effective drainage matters big time for the longevity of your asphalt parking lot. Standing water can penetrate the asphalt surface, leading to cracks and potholes. Ensure your parking lot is properly graded to allow water to flow away from the surface. Clean out any debris from drainage systems regularly to prevent blockages. If you notice areas where water pools, consult with our team and we can regrade those sections or install additional drainage solutions. 

Consistent Cleaning

Keeping your asphalt parking lot clean is another important aspect of maintenance. Regularly sweep the surface to remove debris, dirt, and leaves that can accumulate and cause damage over time. Oil stains from vehicles should be addressed promptly, as they can weaken the asphalt. Use a commercial-grade cleaner to remove oil and other chemical spills. Regular cleaning not only improves the appearance of your parking lot but also prevents long-term damage.

Line Striping

Clear and visible line striping is essential for safety and organization in your parking lot. Over time, lines can fade due to weather and traffic, making it difficult for customers to navigate the space. Having our team professionally repaint the lines every 1-2 years ensures that parking spaces, directional arrows, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked. If you want to up the safety of your parking lot, improve its overall look, and promote a more positive customer experience, it’s time to consider fresh line striping.

Addressing Potholes Promptly

Potholes can cause significant damage to vehicles and pose a safety hazard to pedestrians. Addressing potholes as soon as they appear is crucial to maintaining a safe and functional parking lot. For extensive damage, it’s best to hire our pothole repair contractor to perform a more permanent fix and prevent further deterioration.