Maintaining a well-paved parking lot or driveway is essential for commercial properties, as it boosts your business’s curb appeal while ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and vehicles. However, over time, commercial paving surfaces like asphalt and concrete are subjected to heavy use and harsh weather conditions, leading to common problems that, if left unaddressed, can result in costly repairs.

Keep reading to learn the top five commercial paving problems and practical tips on how to prevent them from the expert commercial paving contractors at Total Paving.

1. Cracks in Asphalt or Concrete

Cracking is one of the most common problems seen in both asphalt and concrete commercial paving surfaces. Cracks can occur due to a variety of reasons, including regular wear and tear, temperature fluctuations, and poor drainage. Over time, small cracks can expand and lead to larger problems, including potholes and significant surface damage.

How to Prevent Parking Lot Cracks:

• Sealcoating: Regular sealcoating of asphalt surfaces can protect against the damaging effects of moisture and UV rays. Sealcoating acts as a protective layer, preventing cracks from forming and extending the life of the pavement.
• Prompt Repairs: Address small cracks as soon as they appear by filling them with crack sealant. Early intervention helps prevent cracks from spreading and causing further damage.
• Proper Drainage: Ensure your commercial paving has proper drainage to avoid water pooling, which can accelerate cracking.

2. Parking Lot Potholes

Potholes are a more severe version of cracks and occur when water seeps into the pavement, freezes, and causes the material to expand and weaken. In Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin, freeze-thaw cycles are a major cause of potholes. Potholes not only detract from the appearance of your property but can also pose a safety hazard for both pedestrians and vehicles.

How to Prevent Parking Lot Potholes:

• Routine Inspections: Regularly inspect your parking lot and other paved areas for cracks or areas of weakness, especially after the winter months. Promptly addressing cracks helps prevent them from developing into potholes.
• Pothole Patching: If potholes do form, patch them as soon as possible to help prevent further deterioration and potential liability risks. Consider using hot-mix asphalt for a longer-lasting repair solution.
• Sealcoating: As with crack prevention, applying a sealcoat to your asphalt surfaces every two years will help protect against the formation of potholes.

3. Parking Lot Drainage Issues

Improper drainage is a common issue for commercial paving surfaces and can lead to standing water, erosion, and damage over time. Poor drainage can cause water to pool on the surface, leading to cracks, potholes, and weakening of the pavement structure. In winter, standing water can freeze and worsen the damage through the freeze-thaw cycle.

How to Prevent Parking Lot Drainage Issues:

• Ensure Proper Grading: When installing or repairing commercial paving, make sure the surface is properly graded to direct water away from the pavement and your buildings. A well-designed slope will prevent water from pooling and reduce the risk of damage.
• Install Drainage Solutions: If your property is prone to drainage issues, consider installing additional drainage systems, such as French drains, to channel water away from the pavement and your structures.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep an eye on any areas where water tends to collect and make drainage improvements as needed to prevent long-term issues.

4. Asphalt & Concrete Fading, Discoloration

Over time, asphalt surfaces can fade or become discolored due to exposure to sunlight, harsh weather, chemicals, and regular wear and tear. Fading not only affects the appearance of your commercial property but also indicates that the surface is becoming more vulnerable to damage.

How to Prevent Asphalt & Concrete Fading, Discoloration:

• Sealcoating for Asphalt: Regular sealcoating helps protect asphalt from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause fading and weaken the material over time. A fresh sealcoat restores the surface’s color and extends its durability.
• Proper Cleaning: Regularly clean your paved surfaces to remove debris, chemicals, and oil stains, which can lead to discoloration. Use a pressure washer or a mild detergent to maintain a clean and fresh appearance.
• Concrete Sealing: For concrete surfaces, apply a concrete sealer to protect against discoloration from environmental factors and daily use.

5. Surface Erosion

Erosion occurs when the surface layer of the pavement wears away due to weather exposure, vehicle traffic, or improper maintenance. Eroded areas can develop into weak spots that are more susceptible to cracks, potholes, and drainage issues. Erosion is particularly common in commercial properties with high traffic, such as parking lots.

How to Prevent Surface Erosion:

• Sealcoating and Sealing: Regularly applying a protective sealcoat (for asphalt) or concrete sealer (for concrete) helps prevent erosion by creating a barrier against the elements. This protective layer reduces wear and tear, preserving the integrity of the pavement.
• Repair Damage Promptly: Address any early signs of erosion, such as surface wear, cracks, or uneven areas, before they become larger issues. Routine maintenance is key to helping prevent long-term damage.
• Limit Heavy Loads: If possible, limit the weight of vehicles or equipment driving on the surface, as excessive weight can accelerate surface erosion. For properties that regularly accommodate heavy vehicles, reinforced paving solutions may be necessary.

Contact Total Paving For Commercial Paving In Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin

Maintaining your commercial paving is essential for preserving its durability, safety, and appearance. By taking proactive steps to address common problems like cracks, potholes, drainage issues, fading, and erosion, you can extend the life of your paved surfaces and avoid costly repairs.

At Total Paving, we specialize in providing high-quality commercial paving services for businesses across Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin. From installation to maintenance and repairs, our expert team can help ensure your parking lots, driveways, and other paved areas remain in top condition. Contact us to learn more about how we can help with your commercial paving needs and keep your business looking its best.