Why Proper Drainage Systems Are Essential for Asphalt Surfaces

In the Midwest (and especially St. Louis), we have a propensity for severe storms, whether excessive rains that cause tornados and flooding or winters filled with sleet and snow that cause the road commission and city residents headaches alike.

Following one of these major weather events, the immediate concern is assessing damage and ensuring the safety of our community members.

A secondary concern for commercial parking lot owners is where all the water, melted snow, or debris will go. As we tell all of our clients, drainage systems are essential to keep parking lots and municipal roads safe and clear.

Let’s talk about drainage systems and how property owners can check up on their systems.

Drainage systems protect paved surfaces by preventing water from pooling and causing damage. Without them, water can seep into the pavement, leading to cracks and potholes over time.

Additionally, standing water poses a hazard for pedestrians and drivers, particularly in colder weather when it can freeze and create slick, dangerous surfaces.

Grates are a crucial component of drainage systems designed to collect and direct water away from the surface. Two of the most widely used types are trench grates and catch basin grates , each suited to different scenarios.

Trench grates are long and narrow, ideal for capturing water over a broad area. They are commonly installed along curbs or at the base of slopes in parking lots. Their linear design helps efficiently manage water runoff, minimizing the risk of flooding and standing water.

Catch basin grates, often called storm drains, are typically square or circular and positioned at the lowest point of a paved area. Connected to a network of pipes, they effectively transport large volumes of water away from the surface.

These grates are commonly used in parking lots and municipal roadways, offering reliable flood prevention.

In addition to grates, a parking lot’s slope significantly impacts the effectiveness of its drainage system. A slight incline ensures water flows toward the drainage points.

A parking lot should ideally have a 2% and 5% slope. Slopes below 2% can result in standing water, while those exceeding 5% may cause runoff to flow too quickly, leading to erosion.

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your drainage system functions as intended.

Conduct periodic inspections to check for pooling water, cracks, or potholes. Pay special attention to grates, ensuring they remain debris-free to facilitate proper water flow.

Timely repairs and cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your paved surface.

Severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snowfall, can put extra strain on drainage systems.

Excess water can overwhelm the system, causing flooding and erosion. Monitor your drainage system closely during such events and remove debris blocking the grates.

In some cases, additional measures like sandbags or temporary barriers may be necessary to prevent water accumulation.

Effective drainage systems are critical for maintaining the longevity and safety of parking lots and municipal roads.

By incorporating features like grates, appropriate slopes, and routine maintenance, you can protect your investment and ensure a functional, hazard-free surface.

Being proactive about drainage management, particularly during severe weather, is essential to preserving the integrity of your pavement.

At Leritz Busy Bee, we specialize in all things asphalt and paving.

With decades of experience, our team has the expertise and equipment to handle new pavement installations, asphalt maintenance, and municipal paving projects.

Let us help you create durable, well-drained surfaces that stand the test of time. Contact us today to discuss your next project!

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