When designing or remodeling a parking lot, one of the key factors is deciding on whether to paint straight or angled spots. Each has its own benefits and purpose. This guide will help you to determine which would best serve your specific customers base.

Straight Parking Spaces

Pros

The traditional or 90-degree parking space allows drivers to approach from any side. This can lower the traffic congestion rate as drivers won't be forced to wait for an entry into specific lanes. The tight spaces also allow you to add the maximum number of spots to each lane, which can be very beneficial if your business receives a lot of customers. 

Cons

To get safely into a straight space, drivers need a larger turning radius. This would mean making the lanes in your parking lot wider. Additionally, allowing two-way traffic increases the risk of collisions as drivers could miss an incoming car from one side as they back out. The closer proximity of parked cars also raises the possibility of dinging a vehicle with a door.

Angled Parking Spaces

Pros

Many storefronts prefer angled parking when possible. Having a 45-, or 60-degree angle allows customers to pull in and back out much easier and faster. This increases the safety for drivers and decreases the likelihood of a collision. If your business has frequent turnover throughout the day, these angles would allow spots to free up much quicker.

Cons

Designing a parking lot with angled spaces requires much more forethought than one with straight spaces. Usually, these lanes are restricted to one-way traffic to minimize accidents; however, this tends to slow down the speed of travel and leads to backlogs. Widening the lanes would allow two-way traffic, but it would sacrifice square footage. 

When you need a parking lot constructed and designed, turn to the experts at TTAD in Reynoldsburg, OH. For nearly a decade, this commercial contractor has provided construction, painting, carpentry, remodeling, and property management services to Central Ohio. They are licensed, bonded, and insured, and have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®.  Call them today at (740) 927-1787 to schedule a consultation for your project and visit their website to learn more about their services.