Keeping Your Business' Parking Lot In Great Shape
If you own a small business and you have a small parking lot available for your customers to utilize, you will want to take the necessary steps in maintaining it for their safety and convenience. There are several steps one should take regularly to keep an asphalt parking lot in the best of condition. Here are some tips you can use to improve the appearance of your parking area so it is an enjoyable surface to walk and drive on.
Do Cleaning Routines Regularly
It is important to take the time in keeping your lot free of debris. This will not only keep it looking nice for visitors, but will be helpful in keeping premature damage to the asphalt from occurring. Take a stroll through the parking area at the end of each workday to remove any garbage by hand. Sweep the lot with a push broom to remove excess dust left behind from vehicles as well as any twigs, leaves, or dirt which accumulates after storms or windy days. Leaving debris to build up could cause moisture to accumulate in areas where it is present. This would cause cracking or crumbling of the asphalt to occur within time.
Fix Any Cracks Or Holes Promptly
If you notice an area of your parking lot where a crack or hole is present, it should be repaired quickly so it does not expand in size. Push pieces of gravel into the crevice to give it a bit of stability before adding an asphalt cement substance to seal the pieces inside. This is applied with a caulk gun and can be spread over the edges of the void with a putty knife. Do not allow this area of the parking area to be used until the cement has completely hardened.
Add Some Aesthetic Enhancements
It is a good idea to make your parking area inviting to those who visit your establishment. Consider having the lot seal coated every year to give it a darkened appearance and smooth surface. This will protect the asphalt from deteriorating. Add some parking guidelines to help your customers park their vehicles at adequate distances from other vehicles in the lot. Install parking bumpers to help keep customers from rolling into areas where their vehicle could become stuck. Adding flowers in planters around the perimeter of the parking area is a nice touch and will be pleasing to the eye.
Contact a company like Sealcoating America for more tips about keeping your lot in great shape.