Here’s the thing, your parking lot lays the groundwork for a good first impression. When your customers roll into the lot, they want to see a smooth, well-maintained surface, as this signals professionalism, attention to detail, and care. The condition of your parking lot’s paving can have a detrimental effect on your company’s image, if it’s poorly maintained and is home to potholes, cracks, and faded lines. What’s worse, is you could even be held liable if your parking lot isn’t safe. To avoid negative conclusions, it’s important to understand why parking lot paving is important for commercial businesses.
1. Maximize Parking Space & Overall Use.
While parking lots come in all shapes and sizes, the one thing they do have in common is limited space. By paving your parking lot, you can maximize the lot’s usage by clearly marking out parking spot lines. In contrast, gravel lots don’t offer the same delineation, and frustration can ensue for both customers and employees who are looking to squeeze into a parking lot full of improperly parked cars.
2. Reduce Liability & Enhance Safety.
Parking lot paving helps reduce liability and enhance overall safety by allowing you to mark out clear indicators for handicap spots, crosswalks, speed limit signs, and the parking spaces themselves. The asphalt paving is what allows the paint to stick and clearly mark out these important areas, promoting safe navigation for all.
3. Improve Drainage & Prevent Pooling.
Parking lots paved with asphalt are better able to handle rainwater and snow melt, improving drainage and preventing water pooling. This is critical for your businesses’ physical building, as it prevents water from seeping into the foundation and causing damage, and prevents customers from slipping and falling on wet, uneven surfaces. It also helps maintain the integrity of the lot’s surface by avoiding potholes, cracks, and erosion.
4. Increase Property Value & Curb Appeal.
Parking lot paving not only improves the appearance of your commercial property, but it also enhances its overall value. A well-maintained paved lot signals to potential lessees, customers, and partners that your business is professional, successful, and dedicated to maintaining its premises.
5. Lower Long-Term Maintenance Costs.
Parking lot paving does have a larger up-front cost, but it will save you money in the long run. Ultimately, parking lot paving can increase the lifespan of your lot by upwards of 15-20 years with regular maintenance and resurfacing. In comparison to gravel or dirt lots that require constant maintenance, paved lots have a longer lifespan and require less day-to-day upkeep.
6. Pass ADA Compliance Inspections.
Parking lot paving is also important for ensuring ADA compliance. The Americans with Disabilities Act sets regulations for handicap parking spots and access routes, and paved lots allow for proper marking and easier navigation for individuals with disabilities.
Overall, parking lot paving helps improve the appearance, safety, and functionality of your commercial property. It’s an investment worth making for the success and longevity of your business. Are you considering paving your parking lot in Orlando, Florida? Contact D & C Parking Lot Maintenance today for a quote and to discuss the best options for your commercial property.