5 Parking Lot Paving Maintenance Tips To Perform This Fall
Damaged parking lot paving is a real problem, and the bulk of the damages often occur over the winter months when excess moisture and extreme temperatures put stress on the asphalt. Fortunately, there are things you can do to minimize damages.
1. Clear Existing Drains
Drainage is the single most important thing needed to protect a parking lot from winter damage. Most lots have both interior drains at low points in the lot, as well as storm drains along the edges of the lot. These can become blocked up with trash and debris over the summer, which leads to overflowing drains and standing water in winter. A professional cleaning will ensure they drain properly.
2. Perform a Ponding Survey
Ponding water, or water that pools on the asphalt surface, in winter can destroy asphalt. The puddles seep into the asphalt's pores, where it then freezes and expands. This expansion results in cracks and potholes. If there are areas where ponding occurs after rainfall, then there are a couple of options. Your asphalt contractor may be able to patch and level the area, or it may make more sense to install a drain in the low area.
3. Clean Up Summer Residue
Car fluids, pollution, and other debris can collect on your paved lot surface over a long, dry summer. When winter wetness arrives, this layer of residue can create slippery conditions for drivers. Further, some types of residue can also slowly eat away at the asphalt. A thorough parking lot cleaning to remove all residue in the fall can prevent accidents as well as prolong the life of the paving.
4. Repair All Damages
Cracks, potholes, and loose surface aggregate are all problems that will only get worse over the winter months when moisture and freezing weather break down damaged asphalt even more quickly. Fortunately, these damages can be repaired with fillers, patches, or resurfacing if caught early enough. Schedule these repairs before winter weather arrives to avoid more extensive damages.
5. Apply a Protective Seal
Asphalt is somewhat porous, which means it can absorb moisture. This can be a problem in winter when the moisture freezes and breaks apart the paving. A sealcoat application solves the problem by filling in the pores so moisture can't soak into the asphalt. If water is soaking into your parking lot pavement, then it is time to have a fresh sealcoat applied before winter arrives.
Contact a commercial paving service for more help with fall maintenance and repairs.