What happens if it rains after new asphalt is applied to a parking lot?
A freshly paved asphalt parking lot always looks great for businesses or commercial properties. Installing asphalt also offers numerous benefits, but it is also more likely to be impacted by the weather. Working with an experienced asphalt paving company is essential to limit any issues, as rain after asphalt paving can cause significant damages to a newly paved surface.
Always keeping a close eye on the weather forecast can help you avoid causing any damage to your asphalt parking lot.
Understanding the Impact of Rain After Asphalt Paving
Asphalt pavement is highly durable, but it’s more vulnerable to water damage after it’s been recently installed. The asphalt mixture needs time to dry to ensure it cures properly. Too much rain after asphalt paving will cause the oil within the asphalt to rise to the surface.
Unfortunately, newly laid asphalt is much more likely to experience numerous problems if the curing process doesn’t finish, such as premature potholes and cracking due to its inability to repel water on the surface.
How to Limit the Risk of Rain on New Asphalt?
The easiest way to avoid this dire scenario is to hire an experienced asphalt paving contractor. These professionals understand the importance of installing asphalt on days with clear weather conditions in the forecast. Several days of clear weather will give your asphalt parking lot plenty of time to cure to ensure it will look great and last for a long time.
Investing in sealcoating services a few months after installation is also important in extending the lifespan of the asphalt surface. Sealcoating helps to repel oil and water from getting inside of the pavement, which prevents asphalt from suffering too much damage due to harsh weather conditions. Scheduling parking lot maintenance with an asphalt paving company on an annual basis is also a great way to stay proactive.
Additional Parking Lot Maintenance Tips to Consider
Cracks can eventually appear in a parking lot, which makes your pavement much more susceptible to water damage. The best way to avoid this common asphalt problem is to repair these cracks within a timely manner to prevent them from getting bigger and causing more issues.
Cleaning any chemical spills on your parking lot is also key to preventing premature aging. Rotating your parking spots by restriping your parking lot every two years is also helpful in preventing dips in your pavement that can cause standing water.
When is the Best Time to Schedule Parking Lot Paving in Florida?
The summer months are usually the best time to schedule parking lot paving services. You won’t have to worry about cooler temperatures and the days are much longer compared to the winter months. The warmth of the sun also plays a key role in the curing process.
An experienced asphalt contractor will also check to make sure there isn’t any inclement weather in the forecast, as you won’t have to worry about the chance of rain after asphalt paving is complete.
Reach out to PLS to Learn More Tips to Preserve Asphalt
Parking Lot Services (PLS) specializes in paving projects for businesses and commercial properties throughout Tampa Bay. Our experienced team can help prevent asphalt damage with our maintenance and repair services. We also offer asphalt installation, parking lot striping, sealcoating, and concrete services for all of our clients. Keeping your parking lot well-maintained and looking great is always our number one priority.
Feel free to contact PLS to learn more tips on how to reduce the impact of rain after asphalt paving!