Parking lots can be made from a variety of materials. However, asphalt is the more modern and feasible solution in most cases. Good paving installations using asphalt should last more than two decades. However, proper maintenance is required for commercial parking lots that get crowded. Concrete parking lots have worked very well in the past. But asphalt is the better choice in many ways.
Parking lots are very important for businesses of all kinds. They are responsible for the first impressions and curb appeal of the building. Commercial businesses need to pay great attention to their parking lots. Asphalt pavements are here to stay in the industry. Here are the top reasons why businesses should always choose asphalt for parking lot pavements:
1: Asphalt Is Versatile and Less Demanding
One of the best things about asphalt pavements is that they are very versatile. No matter how big of a parking lot you need, asphalt can be sized to the requirement. This stuff is used to build roads and runways. So, you can get an idea of its scalability.
Also, to scale your parking lot to size, very little is needed from asphalt. All you need to do is to prepare the required amount of hot mix and pour it down. With other solutions, you might have to get your parking lot laid in chunks or pieces. However, with asphalt, everything can be done in one go with much less preparation and waiting times.
2: Asphalt Pavements Provide Noise Reduction
Another great feature of asphalt is that it is very good for noise reduction. This is also the reason why it is used for commercial roads, bridges, and airstrips. The reason for this is attributed to many factors. It is a softer material that doesn’t produce much noise when tire rubber drives on it. Also, it has small pores in it that direct most of the noise into the ground.
Asphalt pavements are much quieter. It reduced traffic noise by three decibels when compared to asphalt pavements. This major noise reduction makes asphalt the perfect solution for commercial parking lot pavements. It will be much easier to deal with in terms of noise.
3: Safety Features with Asphalt Pavements
Asphalt pavements are very smooth. They provide superior contact to vehicle tires making it easier to brake. Porous asphalt enables rainwater to drain through the surface. So, there are no water puddles to be expected almost all of the time. These properties increase the grip and braking performance of vehicles when on asphalt pavements.
The other popular option, concrete, offers somewhat too smooth surfaces. It is much more slippery compared to asphalt pavements. Also, there are no pores on concrete surfaces. So, you will get water on the surface more often. Asphalt parking lots are safer for vehicles and for pedestrians as well.
4: Durability, Longevity, and Cheaper Maintenance
Asphalt parking lots have become so popular for many factors. Some of the most beneficial ones are their durability, longevity, and cheaper maintenance. Correctly laid asphalt pavements from high-quality driveways companies should last more than two decades.
Durable as they might be, asphalt pavements will get cracks, potholes, and damage in time. However, this is where easier, cheaper maintenance comes into play. Crack and pothole filling for asphalt parking lots is a much cheaper endeavor. Also, it is much quicker as well. Parking lots that get seal-coated every year perform very well in terms of durability. Also, seal coating is very inexpensive as well.
5: Asphalt Pavements Are More Sustainable
The biggest advantage of asphalt pavements in terms of a greener environment is their sustainability. Asphalt pavements are very recyclable. In fact, if you already have a damaged asphalt pavement, the new one can be made entirely from the materials of the existing one. Also, it can be reused and renewed to be used in other projects as well.
Additionally, porous asphalt pavements drain water directly into the ground. This keeps the ground below very fertile as well. Other options like concrete don’t compare at all when it comes to recyclability and environmental friendliness.
6: Boost Property Value with a Neat Exterior Look
Businesses and commercial properties get recognized from their outlook. The need to have elegant exterior looks is great. When you get asphalt parking lots, it will improve the look of your business. Asphalt pavements are typically dark in color. Parking lines and markings on them are very visible and the overall aesthetic is great when maintained correctly.
To maintain the look and feel of your asphalt parking lot, make sure to get your pavement seal coated regularly. Commercial parking lots should be seal-coated every year to maintain freshness and aesthetics. Maintain the dark finish and keep markings easily readable for an elegant finish.
7: Quick Maintenance and Repair Works
Pavements are meant to be durable. Even then, damage and wear will occur in time. Cracks, potholes, and color fading are common problems. However, the good thing about asphalt pavements is that they are very easy and quick to maintain.
Cracks and potholes can be filled out quickly. Also, fresh seal coats don’t need much time at all and can improve the way the pavement looks. Whatever damage there is, asphalt pavements will be much easier and quicker to maintain.
Bottom Line
Asphalt parking lots are the go-to solutions for businesses. These not only look elegant but are very durable and easy to maintain. Also, asphalt parking lots are more sustainable with enhanced recyclability. Additionally, asphalt parking lots will be more durable and safer to use for vehicles and pedestrians. Maintain your parking lots with early cracks or potholes filling and get them fresh seal-coated every year and they will last more than two decades as well.
