An Overview Of What To Expect Paving Your Asphalt Parking Lot
If your parking lot is cracked and faded, it's time to have an evaluation to see what type of repairs need to be done. Your lot might need a sealcoat or repairs, or it might need to be replaced in spots. Keeping your lot in good shape reduces your liability for injuries, and it also makes your lot look well cared for and attractive. Here are some things to know about parking lot paving.
Start With The Prep Work
The first step is to get a comprehensive inspection from an asphalt contractor that includes a recommendation for repairs and a cost. In this phase, the contractor will let you know all of the problems with your lot as well as the best way to repair them. They may talk about the type of materials used for repairs and the best time to have the work done.
They'll check for asphalt damage as well as poor drainage. They'll even check the base that supports the lot. Since the contractor might turn up more problems as the work progresses, they may give you examples of what could happen and the extra expenses unexpected repairs might add.
Once you've decided to continue with the parking lot paving project, you or the contractor will need to obtain the permit and have utility lines marked.
Have Repairs Made
When you have your parking lot paved, new asphalt is added to the existing lot. However, your contractor decides if the cracks and other damage will eventually show through. Old cracks can sometimes appear on the surface of new asphalt several months or a few years later. The contractor may decide to remove a thin layer of asphalt first to remove some of the damage. They may also need to remove all of the asphalt down to the base and start all over in badly damaged areas.
Another type of repair the contractor may need to do is to improve drainage. This will eliminate standing water on your lot that speeds up asphalt damage. In addition, the contractor might need to work on the base in certain areas so it's stable and able to support the weight of the lot.
Pave The Lot
Once all repairs have been done, the contractor can put down a new layer of hot asphalt that will bind with the old lot to make it look like new. The contractor may need to mill around the edges of the lot so the new asphalt doesn't make the lot higher than the adjoining walkway or grass.
Any asphalt that's busted up is hauled away and might be recycled back into materials to use on another lot or driveway. When finished, your lot is clean with a smooth dark surface, and it's ready to have the stripes put down.
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