Your parking lot represents your business, and you want it to look inviting to your customers. If that lot is made of asphalt, then it needs maintenance from time to time to slow down wear and deterioration. Here is more information about when you need to seal, resurface, or replace your asphalt parking lot so you can decide which stage of repairs your property needs.
What Is the Difference Between Resurface, Replace, and Reseal?
Many people are confused over these three types of asphalt care. Often, people mention that they had their parking lot replaced when they mean resurfaced. Also, people confuse resurface with resealed. These three services are distinct.
Resurface
When a parking lot is resurfaced, a new layer of asphalt is placed over an old one. Before that happens, the old surface is prepared so that the new layer adheres better, and any cracks and holes are filled at the same time. Ruts (dips in the road caused by repeated travel by heavy equipment) are also leveled.
Replace
When an asphalt parking lot is replaced, the entire surface is destroyed and removed right down to the dirt level. All of it is removed and completely covered with new material. If the replacement is done in certain locations, such as near a road, then it requires extensive plans and possibly even permits.
Reseal
The term reseal refers to the process where cracks and small holes are repaired and a protective coating is placed over the current asphalt layer. Your asphalt should be resealed on a regular basis as a part of regular upkeep and maintenance. This process refreshes your parking lot’s appearance and protects it at the same time.
When Should Asphalt Be Resurfaced?
Most asphalt lots occasionally need to be resurfaced for both safety and appearance. The best time to resurface is when it has large ruts or severe cracks and potholes but is still usable. If you wait too long and you begin to lose large chunks of asphalt or the surface becomes completely unstable, then you might need complete replacement.
When Should Asphalt Be Completely Replaced?
You need a complete replacement if your lot was destroyed by neglect, weather, or heavy use to the point where it is completely unusable. Another reason to have your asphalt lot replaced is if you want to make major changes to your property. For example, if you want to remove your lot and put one in another location.
What Does Sealant Do and Is It Necessary?
Some experts would say that sealant is not necessary and that it adds unnecessary layers to your asphalt. However, others say that sealant goes a long way to the preservation of your lot. Here is a list of the benefits of sealing your asphalt.
Sealant Protects Your Lot From the Weather
Sealant guards against the sun’s rays that make your asphalt brittle. It also protects the surface from ice, snow, and even water that could contribute to and expand cracks.
Sealant Protects Your Lot From Oil and Grease
Sealant adds a protective layer that resists damage from fluids that drip from cars, such as oil and antifreeze.
Sealant Protects Your Lot From Oxidation
Asphalt oxidation weakens your lot and leads to early damage and deterioration. Sealant provides some protection from this process so that your lot looks good longer.
Traditional asphalt parking lots are durable and last a long time if they are properly cared for. However, a parking lot makeover will improve the appearance of your business and property overall. Pinnacle Paving & Sealing can resurface and restore your lot to an excellent condition. We can also completely replace and repave your lot if needed. Call us at our Milford, Ohio, location to discuss your needs.