If you have an extensive asphalt car park outside your business, then it may endure a lot of wear and tear as customers come and go on a daily basis. It may have been some time since you installed it or carried out any type of repair, and you're starting to notice a growing problem. In truth, this type of installation should be restored at least once every decade and sooner in the case of very high traffic facilities. When everyone has left for the day and the car park is empty, begin by having a close look at what you've got, before you make a plan to fix it.

Initial Inspection

As you go around the parking area, make a note if you see any cracks in the surface that are more than superficial. If you can see signs of "heaving" (where the surface is raised) or any potholes in the making, this will be a signal for you to call in the repair team.

Options

It may be possible to fill in the cracks if they haven't progressed too far. However, the fact that you have a pothole here or there will indicate that surface filling is probably not the right option and the integrity of the pavement might have been compromised.

Then again, it may be possible to remove the top layer in a process known as "milling," while leaving the sub base intact. This will be a cheaper option and will lead to less disruption, as well.

When you ask the experts, they will advise you whether you can consider installing an overlay or if you will need to have a completely new installation. Again, this will depend on the scale of the existing damage and whether you have left it too late or not.

New Installation

If you are having a new installation, you might like to consider porous asphalt paving as an option. This is environmentally friendly and allows you to properly manage the stormwater you will inevitably collect in the rainy season. You may be able to get a grant in some jurisdictions to help you if you choose this particular type of surface. Typically, the most common solution will be hot mix asphalt, although your contractor may well be able to offer you a custom blend, if it's likely to last longer or put up with your workload more effectively.

After this job is done, be proactive about maintenance and jump on any repair jobs as soon as they manifest themselves. Ask your contractor for further details.