Establishing a long-term approach (2-5 years) to a property’s pavement maintenance plan will not only build strong visual appeal, it will ultimately help extend the life of the parking lot. A proactive approach to maintenance helps property and facility managers reduce potential costs and liabilities. The timing of repair is of the utmost importance to avoid business interference, and pavement concerns should be addressed at the first show of wear and tear, cracks and drainage issues. Sealcoating is one of the most important elements of a property’s maintenance plan with benefits that attract patrons and reduce costs.
1. Attracts Prospective Customers
Freshly sealcoated pavement boasts the deep black appearance of a brand new asphalt surface, and passersbys and visitors take notice. A well-maintained parking lot makes a good first impression and can enhance the image of your property. Parking lot sealcoating is a simple and affordable way to attract new business and keep your asphalt pavement in good condition. These treatments can be applied in separate mobilizations to avoid inconveniencing patrons.
2. Reduces Exposure to Oxygen & UV Rays
Asphalt pavement consists of rock and asphalt binder, which becomes brittle under oxidized conditions and can cause cracks and deterioration prematurely. However, sealcoating offers protection from oxygen and ultraviolet radiation, as it fills any surface voids to prevent penetration.
3. Increases Oil & Gas Resistance
Just as sealcoating helps prevent UV ray and oxygen exposure, it further serves as a barrier for the penetration of oil and gas. The coal tars utilized in the sealcoating process are impervious to oil and gas spills, which can soften pavement that is not sealed. Oil and gas on parking lot surfaces are hazardous – even in small amounts – and can result in a costly injury to a patron or staff member.
4. Sealcoated Parking Lots are Easier to Clean
An added benefit of keeping up with parking lot sealcoating within a regular maintenance plan is that this smooth barrier makes the lot much easier to clean. Shoveling snow, pressure washing and sweeping duties are far more effective on a sealcoated lot, simplifying upkeep and maintenance year-round.
5. Increases Pavement Flexibility and Reduces Cracks
The weight of constant traffic and inclement conditions such as the freeze/ thaw cycle cause asphalt to expand and contract, which can ultimately cause cracks to form. These cracks allow chemicals and water to penetrate the surface, progressing deterioration. Sealcoating your asphalt parking lot increases its flexibility and helps prevent weather damage to extend the life of your pavement under even heavy traffic conditions.
6. Sealcoating Extends the Life of Parking Lot Paving
Depending on the level of traffic your lot receives, you’ll want to consider a pavement maintenance program that includes the re-application of a life-extending sealcoat treatment every 2-5 years. Sealcoating is one of the most cost effective ways that property owners can protect their parking lot pavement. Less cracks, fewer potholes, easier to clean, increased flexibility – a win-win for both patrons and owners!
Sealcoating is an easy way to improve the appeal of your parking lot and business. When completed in conjunction with a crack sealing program, the pavement deterioration rate will drop. Working closely with an asphalt- paving contractor is a critical element to ensure you are developing and implementing a pavement maintenance plan that will protect your property and the life of its parking lot pavement. Wolf Paving will connect you with an expert to help guide the best progressive plan for your property.
Is sealcoating an element of your existing parking lot maintenance plan and what improvements do you plan to make over the next 2-5 years?
