What Causes a Parking Lot to Become Uneven?

What Causes a Parking Lot to Become Uneven?

How do parking lot surfaces become uneven?

Uneven and bumpy surfaces in parking lots are common issues that can decrease curb appeal and create hazards. Heavy traffic in a parking lot can also make this problem even worse. Scheduling parking lot repair and maintenance with professionals is key to taking care of these problems.

Why Asphalt Parking Lots Need Maintenance

Asphalt pavement needs regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Over time, the top layer of asphalt can degrade. Regular parking lot maintenance in Tampa is necessary to extend the life of the asphalt surface. Staying proactive with pothole repair and resurfacing can prevent small problems from becoming costly repairs.

Here are some of the most common reasons why parking lots become uneven:

Impact of Traffic Flow

Heavy traffic flow significantly contributes to the wear and tear of parking lots. The constant pressure from vehicles, particularly heavy ones, can compress the asphalt and cause ruts. Parking lot repair in these areas often involves reinforcement to withstand continued stress from cars. Periodic assessments of traffic patterns can also inform the need for structural repairs to accommodate changing traffic demands.

Effects of Water and Weather

Pooling water due to rain is a common issue in Tampa. Standing water can cause significant damage to asphalt surfaces. If not addressed, water can weaken the pavement by seeping into the asphalt. Regular sealcoating is essential to prevent water damage.

Effective drainage systems also play a crucial role in diverting water away from the parking lot surface.

Sub-Quality Mix Asphalt and Poor Installation

An uneven surface can often be traced back to poor installation or an inferior asphalt mix. For example, the asphalt may not have been compacted properly, which leads to premature deterioration. Addressing these issues may require extensive parking lot repair, including a complete overhaul of the affected sections. Hiring a skilled contractor that uses quality materials is vital for the longevity of the parking lot.

Oil and Chemical Spills

Oil and chemical spills are significant contributors to the degradation of parking lot surfaces. These substances can seep into the asphalt, breaking down the binders that hold the aggregate together. This process leads to a weakening of the asphalt’s structural integrity. Eventually, the affected areas can become soft and pliable, which leads to the formation of potholes and depressions.

Tree Roots

Tree roots pose a unique challenge to parking lot surfaces. These roots can exert significant upward pressure on asphalt surfaces, which leads to cracks and uneven bumps. Roots can sometimes break through the asphalt and cause considerable damage. It’s always important to consider the placement of trees while designing parking lots and to perform parking lot inspections for signs of root intrusion.

Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is vital for extending the life of parking lots. Sealcoating helps to shield the asphalt from harmful elements like UV rays, oil spills, and water. Regular inspections and repairs are also critical aspects of preventative maintenance. These measures help to identify potential issues before they escalate and get much worse.

Address Cracks and Potholes

Pothole repair and crack sealing are key to maintaining the integrity of parking lots. Once water seeps into the pavement and expands, potholes can eventually form and lead to hazardous conditions. Techniques like a cold patch and asphalt repair are often used to address these issues. Regular monitoring for any signs of wear can prevent small cracks from developing into larger potholes.

Why You Need Professional Repair Services

Hiring a company specializing in parking lot repair in Tampa is important for maintaining asphalt surfaces. Professionals specialize in all aspects of parking lot maintenance, such as routine inspections and major repairs. These professionals use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the highest quality of work.

Additional benefits of repairs include:

  • Boosting Curb Appeal
  • Limiting Repairs
  • Saving Money
  • Improving Safety

Need Parking Lot Repair? Give ACPLM a Call!

Understanding the factors that contribute to uneven asphalt parking lots is essential for Tampa business owners. At ACPLM, we specialize in parking lot repair and sealcoating in Tampa. Keeping parking lots well-maintained and looking great is always our priority. We also offer concrete installation, parking lot striping, drainage services, and much more.

Contact us today to find out more about parking lot repairs! 

ACPLM Admin