Parking Lot Maintenance

Reduce the risk of twisted ankles by properly maintaining your parking lot.

When the seasons begin to change, it is a great time to look around your parking lot and deal with the effects weather and wear-and-tear have on the asphalt. Pavement requires less maintenance than dirt lots, but over time can be worn down to the point where an overall repair could mean a big expense. Proper maintenance also reduces the risk of potholes leading to a twisted ankle or a damaged tire.

Take Action Early

The pavement in your parking lot is not just the material you see on the surface. It is made up of layers, and the top is essentially a "roof" that protects the rest from elements that can break down the composition of the parking lot. The top layer is the reason potholes don’t appear right away. They are formed over time from continuous exposure to:

• Water (including rain, sprinklers, and irrigation systems)
• Sunlight
• Automobile fluids (contain acids that can eat away at pavement)

The process of moisture seeping into the asphalt and then drying causes cracks to form. If the cracks are not fixed, eventually they will grow and turn into potholes. 

Steps You Can Take

Find a contractor you trust in your area to inspect your pavement. Depending on the needs of your parking lot, they might suggest one or more of the following processes.

• Seal: A protective layer to stop erosion from water, sunlight, and more.
• Fill cracks: Refills areas that haven't been tended to so potholes won't form.
• Patch potholes: Filling and repaving small trouble spots.

Taking the time to maintain and repair your parking lot allows you to get the most out of your investment. And keep in mind that this process can almost benefit other concrete structures-sidewalks and steps for example-around your property. Find more building and property safety tips from Brotherhood Mutual in the online Safety Library.  

Related Resources

The Deacon's Bench Online - Roofs