Have you noticed puddles accumulating in your parking lot and lingering for days after the rain? Not only is it inconvenient, causing you and customers to weave through puddles, but it’s also unsightly, affecting people’s first impression of your business. Consider these following basics about standing water on your property, and work with a paving contractor to prevent and remedy the problem. 

Why Are Their Puddles in Your Parking Lot?

Asphalt is a flexible material that allows room for outside impacts without causing cracking or deterioration. That being said, when stationary pressure is repeatedly applied to the same spots, it can create a deformation called rutting. Typically, these indentations match the wheel paths of vehicles.

Alternatively, puddles might also form in depressions: parts of the pavement that settle lower than the surrounding areas. Depressions may result from the heat in the tires softening the asphalt and thus causing dips.

It might also result from poor compaction during the installation. For example, when the asphalt is compacted with a roller that is too small, it will not get the compaction it requires to maintain the structural integrity. Even if it looks good, it can cause you trouble down the line. 

How Can You Prevent Them?

A quality paving contractor can prevent depressions resulting from poor installation. For existing depressions and rutting, professionals can patch those areas, using infrared heat, to match them with the surrounding pavement. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your parking lot has been installed at a slope to avoid pooling at the center of the lot.

Also, your parking lot was designed to carry specific vehicles within a certain weight range; when heavier vehicles enter and linger for days at a time, they will cause indentations. You might consider not allowing heavy-duty trucks in your parking lot or making sure non-customers aren’t leaving their vehicles parked for days at a time.

Your paving contractor should also advise you on proper drainage. In addition to sloping, drains throughout the area will collect water and keep it off the asphalt.

Eliminate and prevent puddles in your parking lot with Musson Brothers in Rhinelander, WI. For over seven decades, this paving and excavation company has provided customers the support they need for their construction projects. Whether you’re a developer or small business owner, their experienced pavers can smooth out your asphalt to make it safer and more attractive. Speak to a professional about your project by calling (715) 365-8700. For more about their services, go to their website.