A pothole in your business’s parking lot might not seem like a major issue. However, holes in the asphalt can widen and spread if not addressed promptly. What’s more, if a customer drives or walks over the affected area, they could experience injury or property damage. Use the guide below to identify and prevent these issues. 

What Causes Potholes?

There are two main reasons why potholes develop in asphalt: road stress and weather.

The average vehicle weighs thousands of pounds. Delivery trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles weigh even more. Routine exposure to pressure from traffic can take a toll on asphalt over time, especially if other issues are at play, such as a compromised subgrade.

Pavement can also fall victim to the freeze-thaw cycle. At night, asphalt contracts as temperatures cool, only to expand again during the day in the sun’s heat. This continuous process can cause small holes and cracks to form in the pavement.

These gaps then allow water to penetrate the surface. As this water freezes, it will strain the paving materials. Over time, even small defects can turn into massive potholes. 

How Can They Be Prevented?

When you notice small cracks and crevices in your parking lot, have them repaired immediately. Quickly filling them prevents spreading.

Seal coating is another option. This technique can be used multiple times to keep your parking lot safe, smooth, and attractive. 

Seal coating is a protective barrier that safeguards asphalt not only against moisture, but also oils and sun damage. It’s typically performed immediately after pavement is installed, and can be reapplied every three to five years. 

 

Do you need parking lot maintenance? If so, Caddo Construction in Wasilla, AK, will help. They offer reliable parking lot maintenance services, including filling in cracks and seal coating. They also provide snow and ice removal. They’ll install new asphalt when the time comes. Check out their gallery of past projects online or call (907) 333-6160 to get started on your estimate.