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The importance of making a first impression on your customers can't be understated. 72% of your customers will typically recommend your business if you make a solid first impression. Every facet of your company has the potential to affect how people view you, starting with your building's parking lot.
While commercial asphalt paving isn't the most glamorous part of your business, it allows you to make an impact. Investing in your parking lot can save you money in the long run, keeping your parking lot looking good for many years to come.
This blog will go over the basics of commercial asphalt paving. We'll talk about the asphalt paving process, what you can expect to pay, and asphalt maintenance tips to improve its longevity.
The Basics of Commercial Asphalt Paving
Commercial asphalt refers to any area that's not in a residential space. This includes some of the following locations:
Shopping malls
Restaurants
Grocery stores
Highways
Schools
Commercial asphalt is made with a stronger mix of sand and bitumen. That's because it's designed to withstand some of the following things:
Vehicles
Severe weather conditions
Heavy foot traffic
Commercial asphalt paving is done on a much larger scale than residential spots. It requires more expertise, skills, and precision than residential paving.
Cost Factors in Commercial Asphalt Paving
Several factors determine commercial paving costs. You should request bids from multiple commercial asphalt companies.
Keep in mind that the lowest bid isn't always the best one. You may want to look for a company that's bonded, licensed, and insured.
Permit Requirements
You may need to obtain a permit before your project gets started. The timelines and filing fees for the permits need to be taken into account when creating a budget. Failing to get the right permits could result in fines or having your project delayed.
Traffic Volumes
Another thing that can affect the cost is the type of traffic your parking lot will get exposed to. Will your parking lot have foot traffic and cars? Will larger vehicles, like city buses drive on your lot?
The anticipated traffic volumes will determine the thickness of your asphalt. You'll need thicker asphalt if you expect to have heavier traffic in your parking lot. This can cause your final cost to go up.
Climate
The climate of where your business is will also affect how much you pay for asphalt paving. While the amount of snow Columbus receives can be quite a lot, summers do get hot. Your maintenance plans and chosen material will need to address whatever elements it'll encounter.
Project Scope
Are you having a new parking lot installed or are you interested in having your current one upgraded? The amount of labor the crew has to perform for your job can result in the price going up or down.
Understanding the Commercial Asphalt Paving Process
Commercial asphalt paving jobs typically have to be executed on a tight turnaround. The last thing you want is for your business to be affected because of your new parking lot installation. Let's go over the basics of the asphalt paving process.
Demolition of Existing Surface
The first step in the process is removing the old parking lot. This is whether it's pavers, asphalt, or concrete.
Asphalt companies use heavy machinery to break up and remove debris. Many companies recycle old concrete and asphalt. These materials get repurposed into new asphalt.
Prepare the Slope for Water Drainage
Puddles of water can cause your asphalt parking lot to break down faster than it should. Water can cause many problems, such as:
Heaving
Cracks
Potholes
Your asphalt parking lot will be graded to ensure any water will properly run off.
Sub-Base Preparation
The sub-base is an important element since it provides a stable surface for the new asphalt. It's also a frost barrier that reduces damage from freezing and thawing in the winter. The asphalt surface won't last very long if the sub-base isn't compacted.
Proof Roll Application
The proof roll ensures that the sub-base is strong and ready to support the new parking lot. The asphalt company will conduct any repairs needed if they find soft spots.
Asphalt Installation
The top layer of asphalt will get spread to provide a clean and smooth parking lot. The surface asphalt is comprised of oil, sand, and small aggregate. A final roll will happen to make sure it's compacted and smooth.
Maintenance Tips for Commercial Asphalt Surfaces
The job isn't done once the commercial asphalt project is done. Staying on top of maintaining it is key to protecting your investment.
Routine Cleaning
You should have your asphalt cleaned each month. Cleaning away debris, like garbage and leaves, will not only improve how your parking lot looks. It'll also ensure it doesn't get damaged and stained over time.
Quickly Repair Potholes
Potholes are a result of water getting into the ground under the pavement. It's important to repair a pothole before it starts to spread and cause further damage. Potholes will only continue to grow with ongoing use and traffic.
Explore Seal Coating
Asphalt seal coating protects and prolongs your asphalt's life expectancy. Seal coating fills in surface damage and adds a protective layer. This layer works to protect against the following:
Vehicle fluids
UV rays
Water
You should have seal coating applied every three to five years. Not only will it shield against external factors and weather elements, but it'll also keep your parking lot looking good. Routine maintenance will also save you money on unnecessary repair costs.
Work With an Experienced Commercial Asphalt Company in Columbus
Investing in high-quality commercial asphalt paving will improve how current and future customers view your business. The last thing you want is for them to damage their car because your parking lot is full of holes. Make a killer first impression by working with a professional asphalt company.
Brecks Paving has been working with customers in the Ohio area since 1957. We've worked on many businesses, such as Dollar General, city parks, and more. Get in touch with us to request a free estimate for commercial asphalt paving in Columbus.
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