Winter weather can be tough on your parking lot. Apart from the surface becoming slippery from ice, snow, freezing rain and hail, the harsh freeze-thaw cycles can result in different types of damage to the car lot. It is important to anticipate potential problems during this season and take measures to prepare your parking lot for the extra strain caused by intense winter elements. But what exactly can you do to winterize your commercial parking lot?
Here are six tips to follow.
CLEAN THE PARKING LOT
Before the winter hits, clear away any trash, leaves, dirt and debris on the parking lot surface. While you should keep the lot clean at all times, this is particularly important in the winter. Debris objects can hold moisture in the same spot for long periods of time, something that can lead to damage. Similarly, the objects can cause damage if they are dragged and ground into the surface by a snow plough. Cleaning up will also make it easier to spot and fix any existing damage early.
GET A THOROUGH INSPECTION
In addition to keeping your commercial lot clean, consider hiring a professional to inspect the property. This will enable you to find all the damaged areas and determine the extent of the damage. That way, you will be in a better position to make the needed improvements and prevent further parking lot breakdown.
MAKE THE NECESSARY REPAIRS
Before the winter months settle in, be sure to seal all cracks and fill any potholes in your parking lot. Cracks present an opportunity for water to get below the parking lot surface and cause damage. Similarly, potholes will only get bigger in the extreme winter weather. Undertaking repairs will go a long way in ensuring the surface lasts long.
APPLY PROTECTIVE TREATMENTS
The right protective treatments will help to guard against winter wear. Sealcoating your parking lot will provide a protective barrier between the surface and winter elements, effectively reducing the threat of the harsh weather. By stopping deterioration before it begins, you will avoid expensive damages to the property.
STOCK UP ON MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES
Even with proper measures in place, things can still get out of control. When preparing your parking lot for winter, make sure you are ready for the worst. This will involve stocking up on some critical winter storm supplies. Important items to have handy include ice melt, high quality shovels to clean up snow and reflective safety vests for the employees shoveling the lot.
PAY ATTENTION TO DRAINAGE
Failures in your drainage system can result in water pooling on the surface of your parking lot. To ensure the safety of your employees and customers, and protect your entire property, make sure the drainage can handle runoff water. Finally, ensure there is minimal risk of blockages once winter sets in.
Looking for a professional parking lot maintenance company? A1 Professional Asphalt & Sealing provides quality services that will help to protect your parking lot against winter weather and prolong its life. Contact us today to get a free estimate and to request our services.