If you own or manage a property with pavement, whether a parking lot or a driveway, you know it can be a significant investment. Therefore, caring for your pavement is essential to maximize its lifespan and minimize repair costs. Your pavement also contributes to your property’s functionality, aesthetics, and curb appeal. This blog post will provide tips on extending your pavement’s lifespan.
Starting With a Quality Paving Job
The first step to extending your pavement’s lifespan is to ensure you have a quality paving job. It’s crucial to hire a reputable contractor with experience in installing pavement. A quality paving job will ensure that the pavement has a solid foundation, is properly graded, and has adequate drainage. These factors are essential in preventing water damage, one of the most common causes of pavement failure. A skilled asphalt contractor will also be able to pick the most suitable asphalt mix for your project and make the installation process smooth.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are crucial to identifying any problems before they become significant issues. Walk around your pavement and look for signs of damage, such as cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces. Inspections should be conducted at least twice yearly, in the spring and fall. In addition to planned inspections, regularly performing an informal assessment of the pavement around your property can go a long way.
Sealcoating
Sealcoating is a preventative measure that can help extend the life of your pavement. A thin layer of liquid coating is applied to the pavement’s surface to protect it from the elements. Sealcoating should be used every two to three years, depending on the amount of traffic and weather conditions. Once again, working with an experienced asphalt contractor and skilled team will aid this process.
Keeping Your Pavement Clean
Keeping your pavement clean is essential to maintaining its appearance and preventing damage. Dirt and debris can build up on the surface of the pavement, which can cause it to deteriorate over time. Regular sweeping and power washing can help remove these elements and extend the pavement’s lifespan. Even everyday trash and litter pickup can be helpful toward the long-term goal of maintaining your pavement.
Fixing Discrepancies
Fixing discrepancies in your pavement is essential to preventing further damage. Our rapidly changing weather patterns in the Midwest can mean your pavement is under a lot of stress. If you notice any cracks, potholes, or other damage, it’s critical to have them repaired immediately. Small cracks can quickly turn into larger ones, and potholes can cause damage to vehicles and people.
Proper Signage and Lines
Proper signage and lines are essential for directing traffic and preventing accidents. Faded or missing lines can confuse drivers and pedestrians, leading to accidents. It’s vital to have these markings repainted regularly to ensure their visibility. Striping your parking lot and updating signage frequently is also beneficial for curb appeal.
Proper Outdoor Lighting
Proper outdoor lighting over the pavement is essential for safety and security. Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents and deter crime. It’s important to have lighting installed where people walk and drive, such as parking lots and sidewalks.
Extending the pavement’s lifespan requires regular maintenance and preventative measures. Starting with a quality paving job, regular inspections, sealcoating, keeping your pavement clean, fixing discrepancies, proper signage and lines, and proper outdoor lighting over the pavement are all essential steps to maintaining your pavement. Taking care of your pavement can help you avoid costly repairs and replacements while ensuring the safety and appearance of your property.
Work With Leritz Busy Bee
At Leritz Busy Bee, we know all things asphalt and paving. We are experts in our field and have decades of experience that we bring to every project we’re involved with. Our team is ready to work with you on new pavement projects, asphalt maintenance, and municipal asphalt projects. Contact us today!