Parking lot maintenance is a frequently neglected task. Business owners tend to focus on general building maintenance. A parking lot greatly improves your company’s accessibility, functionality, and safety. It’s important to extend its life and maximize its use. Here are some proven ways to take care of your parking lot.
Performing regular inspections should always be at the top of your list. Always be proactive and look out for any irregularities, such as built-up dirt or cracks. Ensure to check that all areas, especially those used regularly. These are prone to wear and tear.
Clean the parking lot regularly; schedule it once a week if possible. This step is important because of several reasons.
For one, removing debris shows areas needing repair. It keeps customers safe from obstructions and gives the impression that the business is well cared for.
Sweep layers of dirt on the surface. Pressure washing is effective in getting rid of stubborn dirt and spots. It’s highly recommended to use hot water to soften the dirt and make the process easier.
Leaky engines contain corrosive chemicals that can cause serious and irreversible damage. They can also erode the material that binds concrete and asphalt together. Remove these as soon as possible.
Sealcoating is a must, no matter the material of your parking lot. The parking lot becomes brittle due to the loss of binder oil from exposure to the sun. This increases the risk of damage.
Applying a sealant on the surface of your lot keeps it resilient by replenishing the binder oil. It also helps strengthen its structure. This should be done a year after paving or repaving, and every 2 to 3 years thereafter.
Do not take small cracks for granted. Water seeps into the smallest cracks, leading to pavement breakdown. During the cold season, the freeze-thaw cycle makes the water in these cracks to freeze and expand.
If caught early, apply hot rubber to the tiny cracks to create a watertight surface. Unfortunately, rubber deteriorates over time and must be reapplied every 1 to 2 years.
A well-designed drainage system is vital to move water away from the parking lot. The design should consider factors such as rainfall pattern, soil conditions, size, and slope of the parking lot.
Is there stagnant water in your parking lot? Issues with the catch basin, pipes, or discharge points may be the cause. You may also want to install elevated curbs to help direct the water towards the drainage points. A trench can be effective if the water is confined to a small or enclosed space.
Schedule drain cleaning once a year, especially after a heavy rainfall or storm.
Some business owners don’t appreciate the value of landscaping in parking lot maintenance. The truth is that it has a significant role to play. It supports the parking lot’s drainage system, examples of which include:
Rain gardens come with strategic designs using special soil mixes that enhance rainwater infiltration.
Swales are shallow and elongated depressions serving as mini canals that collect and direct stormwater runoff.
Well-designed plant beds with shrubs surrounding the edges of the parking lot help with water management. The plant’s roots absorb water and serve as a buffer. As a result, the water flow slows down, giving more time for infiltration.
Lines and marks will also fade over time. It is wise to re-strip the parking lot every 18 to 24 months. You can do this more frequently depending on its condition. Not only will it make your parking lot more attractive, but it also improves safety and traffic organization.
The value of having adequate lighting in a parking lot can’t be overstated. It’s hard to see the line markings in a dark area. On the other hand, a well-lit parking lot attracts more customers than a poorly lit one or has flickering lights.
Always check and keep the lighting in top condition. Also, try to clean the fixture every two months. You can adjust the frequency depending on how windy or dusty your location is. To improve lighting, there may also be a need to change old light bulbs.
Regular parking lot maintenance will pay off in the long run. By implementing these best practices consistently, your company’s image will improve. If you think you can’t handle this task, consider getting the services of a professional.
Prestige Property Services offers the best parking lot maintenance services in Orange County and nearby areas. Our team of professionals consistently receives positive feedback from our clients. Book an appointment today!
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