5 Things You Need To Know About Paving A Parking Lot in Southern Virginia

Paving a parking lot looks simple, but there are many fine details contractors need to nail down to ensure the final product is beautiful, reliable, and tough enough to last. Parking lots are complex structures that require significant planning and engineering to do correctly. In this blog, we'll cover five things you need to know about parking lot paving.

Do Contractors Need to Follow Any Code Requirements When Paving a Parking Lot?

Before doing any Danville parking lot paving, you should familiarize yourself with applicable codes, permit requirements, and other regulations. There are many federal, state, and local codes to comply with. For example, all parking lots must have certain accessibility features to meet ADA compliance. Meanwhile, local codes may require fire lanes, specific stall dimensions, and more.

Work with asphalt paving companies well-versed in state statutes, federal requirements, and local codes. They can help you approach your project with compliance at the forefront, saving you from potential penalties and costly delays.

How Important Is a Strong Foundation for Parking Lot Paving?

Without a strong, reliable foundation, your future will be full of frequent parking lot repair issues. Like a building, paved surfaces need a stable foundation that lasts.

Before paving begins, asphalt paving companies will take time to build up a sub-base and foundation. This process usually involves testing the soil to understand its load-bearing capabilities before adding amendments like gravel. After compacting the aggregates, contractors will test the foundation's strength even further. Then, they'll grade it for proper drainage before proceeding with paving.

Sub-base prep isn't optional. Without a strong foundation, your pavement will be more susceptible to severe damage and structural failure, resulting in frequent parking lot repair service and a much shorter lifespan.

Why Do Asphalt Paving Companies Focus So Much on Drainage?

Asphalt is naturally water-resistant, and maintenance services like parking lot sealcoating can prevent water penetration. However, poor drainage will ruin your asphalt paving. Standing water is your pavement's mortal enemy, and a lack of drainage can lead to rapid deterioration, foundation erosion, and other nightmare scenarios.

During foundation prep and paving, asphalt paving companies will assess the drainage situation. They'll grade the foundation and pavement to have a subtle slope, redirecting water away. If necessary, they'll also recommend additional drainage infrastructure. Catch basins, curbs, and other features can help prevent drainage issues, especially on larger parking lots.

Does Overall Design Matter When Paving a Parking Lot?

The right design makes all the difference for Danville parking lot paving. While many assume that parking lots are nothing more than an expansive paved surface, the right way to approach these projects is to nail down a design before any construction begins. You can fine-tune a design with striping and pavement markings, but building your parking lot with safety, efficiency, and accessibility in mind from the start can help you avoid complications later.

Consider what features your parking lot paving will need to remain code-compliant. Then, consult with asphalt paving contractors about additional elements that could make a difference. These include details like stall orientation, traffic pathways, curbing, pedestrian walkways, connections to public thoroughfares, etc.

What Types of Ongoing Care Does Asphalt Paving Need After Construction?

Completing a parking lot paving project can be exciting, but the hard work doesn't stop there. Contrary to popular belief, asphalt paving isn't maintenance-free. It requires ongoing attention to stay in great shape.

Throughout your pavement's life, you'll need to make a habit of regular cleaning. Trash and filth can lead to asphalt oxidation, resulting in cracking, potholes, surface defects, and more. It's also important to seek professional services like parking lot sealcoating. Regular parking lot sealcoating will ensure your pavement is well-protected from the elements, mitigating the risk of damage.

If damage does occur, invest in prompt parking lot repairs. Don't neglect damage. Delaying repair service can lead to worsening problems that can harm your pavement's safety and longevity.

Let E. Wells Paving handle all your Danville parking lot paving needs. We offer years of experience and an unwavering commitment to quality. We provide a one-year warranty on our work for peace of mind and strive for excellence in everything we do. Our goal is to deliver the results you deserve, and we won't stop until we meet your precise needs. You can turn to us for a wide range of services, including new asphalt paving, driveways, sealcoating, repairs, and more.

Get your free quote today by calling E. Wells Paving at (434) 443-5815. You can also email the team at  ewellspaving98@gmail.com  or use our online form.