Understanding the Causes of Asphalt Parking Lot Breakdowns

 

Asphalt parking lots are a vital component of any modern business. It is a practical and visually appealing way to create a safe place for customers to park their vehicles. However, as a facility owner or manager, you have to be aware of the potential asphalt parking lot breakdowns that can have a lasting impact on your investment. Several factors can contribute to these breakdowns, leading to an unpleasant experience for both your employees and customers. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the causes of parking lot breakdowns, their effects, and how you can prevent them.

 

1. Extreme Weather Changes

Weather changes are a significant cause of asphalt parking lot breakdowns. Extreme temperature fluctuations, rainfall, and snowfall can take a toll on the surface of the pavement. With each passing season, the expansion and contraction of the asphalt can lead to serious damage and lead to potholes, cracks, and other types of damage. The freeze-thaw cycle during winter, or heat expansion during summer, can cause this damage. One way to curb this is to perform regular maintenance such as resurfacing and patching.

2. Vehicle Traffic and Weight

The weight and number of vehicles that park on your asphalt surfaces can also cause rapid deterioration. Parking lots, driveways, and walkways undergo daily wear and tear, chipping away at the surface over time. Heavy traffic, such as heavy delivery trucks and garbage trucks, speeds up this destruction. Business owners can take steps to preserve the life of their asphalt surfaces such as strengthening them with sealcoating.

3. Aging and Poor-Quality Asphalt

The older the asphalt, the higher the probability of breakdowns. Over time, asphalt mixes break down, leading to cracks and potholes. Poorly maintained or constructed asphalt is also likely to break down faster than top-quality mixtures. Asphalt experts recommend inspecting parking lots regularly to assess potential damage before it becomes severe.

4. Chemical Spills and Leaks

Oil, gas, and other chemicals that spill on your parking lot can cause irreparable damage to the asphalt surface. Over time, chemical spills cause discoloration and coating protection failures that can lead to long-term breakdowns. Therefore, you should implement spill containment protocols, such as installing oil and water separators, to protect the parking lot from leaks and spills.

5. Natural Disasters

Weather is an essential factor in pavement degradation, but natural disasters, like earthquakes or hurricanes, can cause irreversible damage. Structures and roadways are at risk of physical impairment and weakening. It’s essential to invest in regular maintenance and repair to stay ahead of natural wear and tear events.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, as a business owner or manager, you now understand the causes of asphalt parking lot breakdowns. The good news is that you can minimize the risks by performing regular maintenance, inspections, applying a reliable sealing solution, and entrusting your asphalt maintenance to C. Brooks Paving. When you understand these factors, you can save yourself and your customers from the misery of encountering unexpected breakdowns and potholes during natural weather events. Your parking lot’s lifespan is an essential investment in your facility’s long-term upkeep. If you need help with sealcoating in Kerrville, TX, contact C. Brooks Paving today to schedule an appointment.