The Dos and Don’ts of Asphalt Parking Lot Care

As a leading provider of parking lot asphalt repairs and maintenance services, Morgan Pavement understands the importance of regular upkeep to ensure your parking lot’s longevity, safety, and visual appeal. Parking lot asphalt maintenance costs less than parking lot asphalt repair or replacement. So, you can save money by caring for your blacktop by making it last as long as possible.

This blog post covers essential dos and don’ts and explores the significance of parking lot striping, sealcoating, and overall asphalt maintenance. Get the most out of your asphalt investment by following these tips.

Conduct or schedule regular inspections of your asphalt parking lot. By conducting inspections, you can identify minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs or potential safety hazards.

Inspect your parking lot for cracks, potholes, drainage issues, and worn-out striping. Promptly addressing these problems will extend the lifespan of your asphalt pavement and save you money in the long run.

Conduct regular inspections at least twice a year, with additional inspections after severe weather events or heavy usage periods. Employ a checklist to ensure thoroughness during inspections, including evaluating the overall condition of the asphalt, checking for potholes or cracks, inspecting the drainage system, and assessing the quality of the striping.

Parking lot striping enhances the visual appeal of your parking lot, ensures safe traffic flow, and maximizes parking space utilization. Professional striping services from Morgan Pavement create clear and visible lines, accessible stalls, fire lanes, and directional arrows to optimize functionality. Proper striping also helps prevent accidents and improves the overall experience for drivers and pedestrians alike.

When striping your parking lot, consider local regulations and ADA compliance. Use high-quality, durable paint or thermoplastic materials to withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. Regularly re-stripe your parking lot to maintain visibility and ensure the safety of your visitors.

Sealcoating is a barrier against UV rays, moisture, and everyday wear and tear. By applying sealcoating to your parking lot, you can maintain the integrity of your asphalt surface and prevent oxidation, cracking, and fading. Our sealcoating services at Morgan Pavement provide long-lasting protection for your asphalt, ensuring its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Apply sealcoating every two to three years, depending on the climate and usage of your parking lot. Thoroughly clean the asphalt surface to remove any dirt, debris, or contaminants before applying sealcoating. Choose a high-quality sealant and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

Routinely cleaning your parking lot prevents debris and pollutants from eroding your asphalt. Regularly clearing your lot of leaves, trash, and other debris will minimize the risk of clogged drains, which can lead to water accumulation and subsequent damage to your asphalt. Maintaining a clean parking lot also enhances its appearance and creates a positive impression for visitors.

Sweep your parking lot regularly to remove loose debris. Use a power washer to remove dirt, stains, and oil spills. Pay attention to areas where debris accumulates, such as corners or near trees. Consider implementing a regular maintenance schedule and allocate resources for cleaning to ensure the cleanliness and longevity of your parking lot.

When it comes to asphalt parking lot care, address repairs promptly. Address signs of disrepair, such as cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces. These issues pose safety risks and can lead to more significant damage if left unattended. With our asphalt parking lot repair services, Morgan Pavement can fix these issues promptly, preventing further damage and improving safety for your visitors.

Develop a system for reporting and addressing repairs through regular inspections or visitor feedback. Create a maintenance budget and allocate funds specifically for repairs. Promptly addressing repairs will help you minimize liability, maintain a safe environment, and extend the life of your parking lot.

Proper drainage helps preserve your parking lot’s structural integrity. Avoid delays in cleaning or repairing drainage systems, as standing water can seep into the asphalt, weakening it and leading to cracks and potholes. Regular inspections and maintenance of drainage systems help prevent costly repairs and ensure the longevity of your parking lot.

Inspect your parking lot’s drainage system during inspections and after heavy rainfall. Clear any debris or obstructions. If you notice signs of poor drainage, such as water pooling or uneven surfaces, consult a professional to assess and address the issue promptly. Preventative drainage system maintenance will significantly contribute to your parking lot’s overall health and durability.

Neglecting regular cleaning can accumulate oil stains, spills, and dirt, which can degrade the asphalt surface over time. Promptly address spills and stains to prevent damage and maintain a clean and professional appearance. Regular sweeping, power washing, and using appropriate cleaning agents can significantly extend the life of your parking lot.

Immediately clean up oil or chemical spills using an absorbent material and appropriate cleaning agents. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that can damage the asphalt. Regularly sweep your parking lot to remove loose debris that can break down the pavement. Power wash the surface as needed, but avoid excessive pressure that can damage the asphalt.

Asphalt inevitably cracks as it ages, but take note when the cracks appear. Moisture can penetrate these cracks, leading to further deterioration and larger potholes. Trust Morgan Pavement’s asphalt crack sealing services to seal and protect your parking lot, preventing further damage and extending its lifespan. Sealing cracks ensures a smoother and safer surface for both vehicles and pedestrians.

Regularly inspect your parking lot for cracks and address them promptly. Clean the cracks thoroughly before applying a high-quality crack sealant. Ensure you properly apply the sealant and that it covers the entire crack. Regularly monitor the sealed cracks for wear or damage and reseal as necessary.

Regular sweeping of your parking lot removes loose debris and prevents it from accumulating and causing damage. Power washing can remove dirt, debris, and stains that have settled into the asphalt. This maintenance practice significantly extends the life of your asphalt parking lot while keeping it looking fresh and well-maintained.

Avoid using sharp-edged tools that can scratch or chip the asphalt during winter. Additionally, choose any de-icers you use carefully. Some chemicals can harm the asphalt. Opt for asphalt-friendly de-icing products to prevent unnecessary damage.

While you could handle some maintenance tasks independently, getting professional asphalt maintenance services ensures optimal results and extends the lifespan of your parking lot. Morgan Pavement’s experienced team can provide quality services tailored to your needs. From striping to sealcoating and crack sealing, our professionals have the knowledge and expertise to deliver exceptional results.

Caring for your asphalt parking lot is a continuous process that requires attention to detail and proactive measures. Following the dos and don’ts discussed in this blog post can maintain a well-functioning, visually appealing, and safe parking lot for years.

Make Morgan Pavement your go-to partner for parking lot striping, sealcoating, asphalt crack sealing, and all your asphalt maintenance needs. Request a bid tailored to your requirements, and let us handle your parking lot maintenance needs.