4 Ways to Prepare Your Property for New Asphalt Installation

Here’s how to properly anticipate upcoming asphalt paving while keeping your business operations running smoothly.

How Commercial Asphalt and Residential Paving Differ

Commercial asphalt paving projects are far more complex than residential ones due to their larger scope and heavier traffic demands. A commercial parking lot must accommodate vehicles of all sizes, from compact cars to delivery trucks, and withstand constant use. Additionally, parking lot pavingoften includes additional services like parking lot line striping and fixing potholes, which are essential for safety and functionality. Unlike residential driveways, commercial asphalt installation requires specialized planning to minimize business disruptions and meet specific durability requirements.

Working with a company like First Coast Asphalt Solutions that provides professional asphalt paving services is essential for meeting these needs. Our experts understand how to handle large-scale projects efficiently while accounting for unique challenges like coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adhering to regulations, and ensuring your asphalt pavement lasts.

1. Prepare the Parking Lot for the Asphalt Paving Process

Before installing new asphalt, ensure the parking lot is ready for our contractors. Start by turning off automatic sprinkler systems to prevent water from interfering with the paving process. Pavement must be completely dry for proper asphalt installation, so this small step is critical.

Additionally, unlock any gates or secure access points so our crew can move equipment in and out freely. Clearing the lot of vehicles, debris, and any other obstacles is also essential. Overlooking these small details can derail the entire project, so double-check everything before we arrive and the work begins.

2. Notify Employees, Tenants, & Visitors

Communication is key to avoiding confusion during commercial asphalt installation. Inform employees, tenants, and visitors about the project timeline and how it may affect them. Let them know how long the lot will be closed and provide details about detours or alternative parking options.

For areas undergoing asphalt sealcoating, explain that the pavement will reopen to pedestrians within a few hours but will require 12-24 hours before it’s ready for vehicles. For newly paved areas, allow at least 24 hours for curing before permitting any traffic. Remind everyone about potential noise from equipment and the smell of fresh asphalt during the process to manage expectations and reduce complaints.

3. Close One Section at a Time for Larger Parking Lots

If your parking lot has multiple entrances and exits, consider closing one section at a time. This phased approach allows portions of the lot to remain operational while work is completed in stages. Once a section is ready for traffic, it can be reopened to minimize disruption.

This strategy is particularly effective for larger commercial parking lot paving projects, ensuring the business remains accessible to customers and employees while still allowing our contractors to work efficiently. Coordinate closely with our asphalt paving team to determine the best schedule for your specific lot layout.

4. Schedule Paving Outside of Business Hours

To further reduce unwanted interruptions, we recommend trying to schedule the work outside of your regular business hours, if possible. For example, if your business operates from 9 to 5, paving can begin at 5:30. This approach minimizes traffic on the lot and allows contractors to work more efficiently without interference.

Several factors influence scheduling, including weather conditions, the type of work needed, and our team’s availability. Whether you’re fixing potholes, addressing asphalt repairs, or completing a full asphalt replacement, communicate your preferences with our paving team. We will work with you to accommodate your business needs while ensuring the project stays on track.