Asphalt paving is attractive and affordable and is used for many parking lots. Unfortunately, when the surface isn’t properly maintained, it’s prone to cracks. Here’s how to ensure your parking doesn’t have this problem. 

How to Prevent Cracks in an Asphalt Parking Lot

Many cracks in asphalt parking lots are due to poor drainage. Without proper water direction, puddles will form on the asphalt after it rains.

The liquid can then seep under the asphalt and react with the material and ultraviolet light from the sun. This reaction, known as oxidation, weakens the asphalt and makes it more prone to cracking. Schedule an inspection from an asphalt paving company to ensure your lot has proper drainage. 

Regularly check your parking lot for oil or gasoline stains. Like water, oil and gasoline can seep under the asphalt and make it more vulnerable to cracks.

Scrub any stains using a firm-bristled brush, along with bleach, baking soda, or trisodium phosphate. Also, about once a week, sweep your parking lot to remove any sticks, leaves, or other debris that could hinder drainage and increase the risk of cracks. 

Within a year after your parking lot is installed, schedule professional sealcoating to protect the asphalt from water, gasoline, oil, and ultraviolet rays. Have the lot resealed every two years. 

How Asphalt Cracks Are Repaired 

As soon as you notice a crack in your asphalt parking lot, call for repairs so that it doesn’t get bigger. The repair specialist will remove any vegetation or dirt from the crack using a trowel or similar tool, rinse it with a pressure-washer or hose, and wait for it to dry. Next, they’ll fill the crack with asphalt, make it smooth and level so that it blends in with the rest of the parking lot, and let it dry for 24 hours. 

 

Have you discovered a crack in your asphalt parking lot? Contact the team at Guarco Construction in Granby, CT. They’ve specialized in asphalt paving and repairs for over 40 years, using high-quality equipment and tools to fix cracks and other forms of damage at an affordable price. Learn more about the family-owned company online, or call (860) 278-5558 to schedule a free consultation.