From filling cracks to repainting stripes to hiring professionals, keeping parking lots clean and new in appearance requires a bit of maintenance work. Using tips from the National Parking Association<\/a>, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to parking lot maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the start of its lifetime, a parking lot is safe, durable, and has high curb appeal. With proper maintenance, an asphalt parking lot can remain in pristine condition and last anywhere between 20 and 30 years.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Parking lots in areas with high traffic, such as grocery and department stores, tend to have a shorter lifespan. Extreme weather conditions can also cause asphalt to become brittle and deteriorate more quickly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The faster you remedy potential problems, the longer your parking lot will live. For instance, filling and sealing cracks when they first appear can help prevent larger potholes from forming. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Thus, a key component of parking lot maintenance is regularly inspecting the space for cracks, standing water, oil spills, or other hazards. Here are three issues to look out for: <\/p>\n\n\n\n Always keep your eyes peeled for cracks. While a crack is unlikely to cause any major damage, these can quickly develop into potholes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water can also seep into these cracks, causing further damage and potentially compromising its structural integrity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Standing water in a parking lot can be problematic for a couple of reasons. First off, it’s a safety hazard, as it creates a slippery surface. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Water can also damage a vehicle, and weaken the asphalt or concrete surface over time. This can lead to long-term drainage problems and surface deterioration. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To protect against water damage, you’ll want to seal coat an asphalt parking lot every three years.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Generally speaking, the cost to reseal a parking lot will range from 14 to 28 cents per square foot<\/a>. (Note that the average parking lot measures anywhere from 300 to 350 square feet). <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Parking lots with faded stripes are confusing for drivers to navigate. This confusion can lead to traffic congestion, wrong-way driving, and potential accidents.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to safety issues, unclear striping can give the impression of neglect or lack of attention to maintenance, which may deter customers or visitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To remedy the aforementioned issues (or to prevent them in the first place). there are a couple of routine steps to add to your parking lot maintenance routine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are three services you should consider to keep your space in top condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep the space clean. Accumulated dirt and debris can cause surface deterioration<\/strong> and make it difficult to identify new issues. A clean parking lot is a parking lot free of pollutants, such as oil, chemicals, and litter<\/em>—all of which can stream into stormwater systems and harm the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Options for cleaning parking spaces include high-pressure water hose, a power washer, or a suitable cleaning solution. Before employing any of those methods, be sure to remove loose debris or leaves by hand or with a broom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sealcoating is the process of applying a protective coating to the asphalt surface. This coating shields the asphalt from sunlight, rain, snow, and harsh weather conditions. It also prevents water penetration. <\/p>\n\n\n\n New parking lots should be sealed within the first year of installation. Reapply the sealant every two to three years, or as needed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’ve identified any cracks in your parking lot, have them filled as soon as possible. This can save you a bit of money, as cracks can turn into costly and extensive problems if left untreated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To fill cracks, begin by thoroughly cleaning off any debris. You’ll need to rid the area of debris before applying a filler (whether you use a caulking gun or by pouring it directly into the crack). After the filler dries, consider seal-coating the entire parking lot for added protection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From icy winters to simmering summers, weather conditions have a huge impact on parking lot maintenance. Here are two seasonal considerations that impact the lifespan of your parking lot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The accumulation of snow and ice can lead to slippery and hazardous conditions. Avoid accidents for both drivers and pedestrians by removing snow and treating ice with salt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to maintaining safety, snow removal prevents damage to the parking lot surface caused by the freeze-thaw cycles. These cycles cause moisture within the pavement to expand and contract, weakening the asphalt and leading to erosion and structural degradation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Heat and sun can also cause wear and tear on your parking lot. Both UV radiation and extreme heat can cause asphalt to soften and crumble over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to implementing regular maintenance practices, like filling cracks and seal coating, consider incorporating planted trees or any other structure that could create shade and protect asphalt from the sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Take your parking lot business to the next level by hiring a professional parking lot maintenance team. Professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to perform a variety of parking lot maintenance services, including cleaning, crack repair, and seal coating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Involving professionals also ensures your parking lot receives the highest quality of service and adheres to industry standards. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Understanding parking lot maintenance is especially important if you’re thinking of starting a parking lot business<\/a>. This business involves conducting market research, verifying zoning requirements, and designing a space according to the correct parking space dimensions<\/a>. The last step is maintaining a clean and well-maintained parking lot, which will help draw in visitors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can further boost your business by becoming a host<\/a> on a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, like Neighbor, to publish all your available parking spaces. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Owning parking lots is a great investment opportunity<\/a> This niche investment<\/a> provides a stable income, often immune to other fluctuations in the economy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Keeping an eye out for potential issues, taking preventative measures, and employing a professional are just some of the key components of regular parking lot maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThe Lifespan of a Parking Lot<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Identifying Common Issues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Potholes and Cracks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Standing Water<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Faded Striping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Essential Maintenance Tasks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cleaning and Debris Removal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sealcoating <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Crack Filling and Repair <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Seasonal Considerations for Parking Lot Maintenance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Winter Snow Removal <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Summer Heat and Sun Protection <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Should You Hire Professionals for Parking Lot Maintenance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Routine Parking Lot Maintenance Can Boost Businesses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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