Deciding whether to repair sections of a parking lot or completely repave the entire area is a big decision. Your first instinct as a business owner is to take the most cost-effective route possible. That may mean making minor repairs to small areas of the parking lot. However, there are tell-tale signs that it’s time to invest in a full repave of the parking lot. 

First and foremost, walk the property and assess the extent of the damage. Are you seeing one or two potholes, or dozens of them? Are you finding small cracks and ruts in the asphalt, or areas with crumbling and broken asphalt? Understanding how severe the damage is can help you make better choices when deciding to repair or repave the parking lot. 

Small holes, cracks and divots are normal signs of wear and tear on a parking lot. A good rule of thumb is to measure the damaged area: if the holes are less than a quarter-inch wide, then repairing the area with a filler might be your best option.

Cracks on the surface of the asphalt are another common problem. A few small cracks on the surface of the asphalt are not always a cause for alarm. Surface patching can be a great solution to a parking lot with a solid foundation and several small cracks. However, if you’re seeing crumbing or broken asphalt near the cracks, this could be the sign of a larger foundational problem lurking beneath.

You also want to take into consideration how much damage has been caused. If you’re only seeing a few potholes and the foundation is still a solid base, then applying cold asphalt patches may be your answer. However, if you’re seeing dozens of potholes scattered throughout the parking lot, it may be more cost-efficient to completely repave the area. 

Keep in mind that the aesthetic of your parking lot is going to change with multiple patched areas or filled cracks. If the curb appeal of your business is a top priority, then remember that small patches and fillers will make the parking lot look less neat and clean.

When finding extensive damage to the overall foundation of the asphalt, there are no amount of fillers or patches that are going to fix the underlying problem. Keep in mind that your parking lot is exposed to many elements throughout the day. If the parking lot is over 20 years old, then it may be time to consider a full repavement project. 

Knowing when to repair or fully repave your business’ parking lot is a big decision. You want the experts on your side to help save you the headache of lost time and money. 

Connect With Pro-Pave, Inc. 

Pro-Pave, Inc. has established a reputation as one of the Washington, DC area’s most reliable paving companies. We know everything to know about asphalt paving. 

We currently offer these asphalt services for roads, parking lots, and more: Excavation, Asphalt Stone Work, Asphalt Grading, Asphalt Paving, Asphalt Patching, Asphalt Milling, Asphalt Sealcoating, Asphalt Crack Sealing, and Asphalt Striping and Signage.

 To find out more about how we can help your business with all of your paving needs, contact Pro-Pave today. Visit our website, or give us a call at (703) 433-9500.