When constructing a parking lot for your businessyou will have a choice of materials to use for the job, each of which has pros and cons. The type of material used for your business will depend on many factors, such as budget, time constraints, and expected traffic. To that end, below we list a few of the materials used when constructing parking lots.
Gravel
Although more commonly used for driveways, some businesses opt for a gravel parking lot as it is quick to lay and is cheap as well. Loose gravel can be attractive in certain situations, and when laid with a grill system it can be a cheap yet suitable option.
Gravel does have its drawbacks, however. Despite being cheap to lay, it does require a lot of maintenance. Weeds can become a major problem and make the parking lot look rather unsightly.
Asphalt
According to the experts at Parking Lot Pros, asphalt paving is one of the most popular options for parking lots; it is not hard to see why. This type of paving looks great and is a cost-effective solution for businesses that want to create a good impression. With seal coating applied, the surface is protected from the elements and the need for asphalt parking lot repairs is greatly reduced (or even eliminated). Nevertheless, it is worth noting that although asphalt might be a cheaper solution when compared with other materials, it does need ongoing maintenance, with seal coating applications required every three to five years.
Concrete
Concrete is also a hugely popular choice for parking lots as it is neat and tidy and requires little to no maintenance. Once installed, it only requires an occasional sweep and clean. Furthermore, a concrete parking lot can last for decades. However, concrete is one of the most expensive options in terms of installation, and it must be left for around a week to cure before it can be used. For companies in a hurry to have their parking lot laid, concrete might not be the best option.
Brick Pavers
Brick pavers are usually reserved for residential driveways because they are expensive to install. Nonetheless, they do look magnificent; some high-end businesses choose to have their parking lot brick paved for the aesthetic appeal alone. A brick-paved parking lot tends to require a large budget.
Chip Seal
Chip seal paving is affordable in terms of parking lot paving. However, it does not have as long of a lifespan as alternative paving materials like asphalt or concrete. This material involves a layer of liquid asphalt poured on top of gravel. A layer of stones will then be placed on top of the asphalt before being rolled in. This is an attractive option for those who want to choose their own style and color of stone. Nevertheless, with a lifespan of under ten years, chip seal may not be the most cost-effective solution.
How to Choose the Perfect Material for Your Parking Lot
As you can see, there is a lot of choice in terms of material for parking lot paving. The two most popular options are asphalt and concrete. Your budget will play a significant role in which material you choose. Then again, some materials may be more suited to your business. For example, if you are expecting deliveries from heavy vehicles on a regular basis, you will need to choose a material that can withstand the heavy loads. Think carefully about what you can afford, what aesthetic you prefer, and what material will suit your needs. You should also take maintenance requirements into consideration when making your choice.