Standing water can be costly parking lots. Besides causing deterioration in asphalt paving, puddles can create safety hazards for pedestrians and vehicles. The good news is there are ways to prevent these pesky and unwanted pools from taking over your business's exterior surroundings. Here is what you need to know about what causes them and how to be proactive against their formation. 

How Do Puddles Commonly Form in Parking Lots?

One of the most common culprits is poor drainage systems. If it was improperly installed underneath the sub grade layer during initial asphalt paving, water won't drain away from the parking lot. Drainage channels, such as nearby storm drains or gutters, that become clogged can also lead to puddles. 

Another main cause of stagnant water comes from potholes. These large fissures typically emerge when water seeps in under a parking lot's pavement and expands and contracts during freezing weather. Repeated cycles of thawing and melting can lead to small cracks and holes that may turn into potholes and puddles. 

If the lot hasn't been resurfaced in some time and is starting to show its age, pools of water can also form. Fissures and other dents may start to emerge in asphalt paving due to long-term use. Vehicle parking, extreme weather and flooding can wear down the materials and create openings for water to seep in and cause damaged spots. 

What Are Some Prevention Tips?

When performed by a professional asphalt paving company, sealcoating will provide a layer of durable protection on the parking lot's surface. This process typically uses a mixture on asphalt and a thin layer of aggregates, such as gravel, crushed stone, or sand, to form a water-resistant barrier. Sealcoating is also a safeguard against harsh ultraviolet ray exposure and chemicals that can weaken the asphalt. 

Sloped paving construction is also helpful for channeling water away from your parking lot. During a paving project, the asphalt is strategically poured at an angle to form a slope for steering water down into storm drains. Curb gutters are another solution to prevent puddle formation. If the parking lot has a steep enough grade, the gutter channels water onto lower ground elevations and away from the lot.

When commercial property owners need expert parking lot care, they turn to Musson Brothers in Rhinelander, WI. Serving the area for more than 70 years, the licensed and insured asphalt paving contractor has extensive experience with installation, maintenance, and repair services. To learn more about how they can protect your asphalt surfaces, and receive a no-obligation estimate, call (715) 365-8700. The complete lineup of services is also available online.