If the time has come for your parking lot to be repaved, you might be considering what material to choose. The most common types are concrete and asphalt, with asphalt paving be coming increasingly popular. Nevertheless, the experts at Parking Lot Pros say that before you head off to order your new parking lot surface, it might be worth taking a closer look at the pros and cons of asphalt.
The Pros of Asphalt Parking Lots
Asphalt is a popular material for parking lots because of the increased safety it provides. It offers a smooth surface that ensures superb tire contact. It is also slip-resistant, reducing the risk of accidents in wet and icy conditions.
Another major benefit of an asphalt parking lot is the fact that it is exceptionally durable and incredibly strong. It is perfect for a variety of weather conditions and can withstand the weight of large vehicles day in and day out. Additionally, asphalt is a quieter material,so for parking lots with heavy traffic, it is idealas traffic sound is significantly reduced when compared with concrete.
Provided you take care of your asphalt paving, you can be sure that it will last for decades. It is recommended that an asphalt parking lot be seal coated regularly (every 2-3 years) for maximum life expectancy. Once it has been coated, this material is easy to maintain as repairs will be kept to a minimum.
If you are passionate about doing your bit for the environment, then asphalt is the better choice for your parking lot. As it is a recyclable material, it is considered greener than alternative parking lot paving materials such as concrete.
When it comes to asphalt paving, the installation is very quick. In fact, you can expect your parking lot to be fully usable after a couple of days compared with a concrete parking lot that can take double the time for it to be ready for use.
The Cons of Asphalt Parking Lots
As with everything, there are some downsides to an asphalt parking lot. The first of these is that it requires more ongoing maintenance than concrete paving. Unless it is regularly maintained, it will deteriorate over time, which will shorten its lifespan.
When compared to concrete, an asphalt parking lot will typically have a short lifespan. You can expect an asphalt parking lot to last for around twenty years, while a concrete parking lot may still be going strong forty years later.
Without a seal coating, an asphalt parking lot will be much more susceptible to damage from chemicals such as oil and gasoline. Because it is a permeable substance, water, ice, and snow can shorten its lifespan. However, seal coating an asphalt parking lot can help to protect it from the elements. This protective coating seals the parking lot and prevents damage. To get the most from seal coating, it should be reapplied every two to three years.
Conclusion
Asphalt is a cost-effective solution for parking lots that looks chic and elegant and will create a favorable first impression of your business. To get the most from this type of paving, you should always consider seal coating it to ensure full protection from a variety of materials as well as harsh weather conditions.
If you are prepared to put in the time and money to maintain an asphalt parking lot, it should last for decades. Plus, asphalt paving is better for the environment as it can be recycled.
It is easy to see why this durable material is a top choice for parking lots throughout the states.