Your parking lot is a crucial part of your business. It not only allows customers to safely and efficiently come to your business, but it also serves as one of the first chances you get to leave a great impression.
Unfortunately, even the best parking lots made by the finest pavers don’t last forever. Eventually, you’re going to need repairs, and beyond that, repaving services.
However, we know that everyone wants to put off major expenses as long as possible to get the most from their investments, and we understand that. How long is too long, though? What are the signs your parking lot needs repaving and you simply can’t put it off further?
Today, we’re going to go over 8 signs for you to look for.
1. Divots in the Pavement
Asphalt is reinforced on the first layer, but it’s still built on top of a natural surface. Over time, that surface can shift and sink slightly.
This causes the asphalt to form a slight divot, and it’s typically the start of a pothole.
If you’re starting to see a lot of divots, repaving the surface might be necessary. However, if there are just a few divots here and there, patches are possible that can correct the issue in the right area without forcing you to tear up perfectly good sections of pavement. We have other guides on the pros and cons of each of those options, though.
In general, divots are a warning sign that potholes are going to form soon, and they can be detrimental to your customers who don’t expect elevation changes in your pavement. So, it should be corrected as soon as possible.
2. Large Cracks
Small cracks are going to happen over time, and while they’re a sign of wear and tear that need to be fixed, they’re not quite serious enough to warrant a full repaving project.
However, if those cracks are allowed to persist, and they grow into large cracks with inches of space between them, you’re going to need to repave the surface.
Large cracks are a sign of considerable wear and tear, neglect, and exposure to the elements, and they’ll keep getting worse over time.
Like divots, a single large crack might be fixed with a patch or a minor repair, but if the cracks are everywhere, it’s time to get the lot repaved.
3. A Lot of Potholes
Potholes can be refilled individually if they’re not too prevalent, but once you have several of them in various parts of the parking lot, it’s better to get the whole lot fixed.
Potholes will continue to be a major problem the longer they go without repairs. Not only will the lot deteriorate more, but they are also a danger to your customers and their vehicles, and they make your business look unprofessional.
Lots of filled potholes can also look unprofessional even though they help structurally. Especially if the seam between the old pavement and filling is noticeable.
If there are a lot of them, get your lot repaved.
3. Alligator Cracks
Alligator cracks are even worse than a big crack running along the pavement. This is when many cracks form together and look like shattered glass or an alligator’s scales. Hence the name.
This is caused by a substantial amount of damage from the elements and sometimes neglect, and unfortunately, it spreads fairly quickly.
If you have alligator cracks, it’s time to get new pavement.
4. Ruts
Ruts are when sinking pavement is cracked, and they force you to get repairs made.
Now, this doesn’t mean that a single minor rut requires a full repaving, but if it’s serious, it is time to have all that asphalt removed and refilled.
5. Raveling
This is what happens when your asphalt starts to deteriorate even if you manage to maintain it well enough to avoid cracks and other noticeable issues. When you walk on the asphalt, it will shift underfoot as if you were walking on a gravel walkway.
Unfortunately, the only minor repair is a surface layer renewal, but most of the time, you’ll need to repave the entire thing.
6. Rippling
When you look at your parking lot, does it look kind of wavy? That’s called ripping, and all those waves are cracks forming throughout the entire lot.
Unfortunately, there are no minor repairs for this form of damage. The asphalt has been raised and lowered in different places, and it’s going to form tons of cracks very quickly as it breaks apart.
The only solution to this problem is to start a full repaving project and start over fresh.
7. Asphalt Joints are Worn
If you look at the joints where your asphalt connects in different areas, and you notice that the asphalt is crumbling, cracking, sinking, or anything else, it’s time to get it repaved.
If you don’t, you’ll quickly experience the worst issues on this list, because water is going to start entering those joints and filling up the ground beneath the rest of the parking lot.
8. The Parking Lot is 15 Years Old
Finally, even if you have taken good care of your parking lot and don’t seem to have the major issues we’ve talked about, you still need to get it repaved after 15 years.
Even if you’re not seeing extremely noticeable damage, the asphalt is starting to break down, and all those problems can start adding up really quickly.
It’s best to acknowledge your parking lot’s lifespan, know when it’s coming to an end, and plan ahead to have it replaced. That gives you time to build up a fund for the project, research service providers, learn more about your options, etc. It’s a lot more pleasant than suddenly having a big parking lot project on your hands without any sort of preparation.
Get Your Parking Lot Inspected, Repaired, and Repaved with Barnes Asphalt
At Barnes Asphalt, we understand that your parking lot is more than just a space for vehicles— parking lot is a key part of your business’s first impression. A well-maintained parking lot not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property but also ensures safety and convenience for your customers. If you’re wondering whether it’s time for an upgrade or looking to maximize the value of your current lot, we’re here to guide you through the process.
With years of experience in the industry, Barnes Asphalt specializes in comprehensive pavement solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s minor repairs to extend the life of your pavement or a complete repaving project, our expert team is equipped with the knowledge and tools to deliver high-quality results. We offer a wide range of services, including asphalt paving, asphalt sealcoating, asphalt miling, and full-scale repaving, all designed to keep your parking lot in optimal condition.
What sets Barnes Asphalt apart is our commitment to customer satisfaction and our meticulous attention to detail. We begin with a thorough inspection of your parking lot to assess its condition and identify any areas of concern. Based on our findings, we’ll recommend the most effective and cost-efficient solutions to ensure your parking lot remains safe, functional, and visually appealing for years to come.
Don’t let small issues turn into costly repairs down the road. Contact Barnes Asphalt today for a consultation, and let us help you preserve and enhance your parking lot.