Asphalt is used in most business parking lots across the United States. It is due to a variety of reasons. Concrete requires more upfront investment than asphalt and takes longer to lay down. Asphalt is also more flexible and can endure the freeze-thaw cycle better than concrete.
It’s Durable
Asphalt is one of America’s most recycled materials, so it’s environmentally friendly. Recycling old asphalt reduces the need for new materials, which helps save energy and minimize pollution. Asphalt pavements are incredibly durable. They can support heavy traffic loads and withstand the freezing temperatures, rutting, and chemical damage common in parking lots and roads. Asphalt also offers superior ride quality compared to concrete. Its smoothness helps prevent premature wear and tear on cars, allowing water to drain off the surface and reducing spray and splash from vehicles. Its dark color also reduces glare and makes it easier to see road markings. Asphalt can be poured and striped much faster than other materials, so it’s ready for traffic sooner. It is a huge benefit for busy roadways and business parking lots. It’s also more cost-efficient and economical than other types of paving materials. Asphalt may endure up to 20 years with the right upkeep and attention.
It’s Environmentally Friendly
Using asphalt for a business parking lot paving in Elkhart IN can be an environmentally friendly choice. It reduces the need for other materials in paving and is recyclable. It also reduces energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions and conserves natural resources. As more people become aware of their carbon footprint, businesses become more concerned about being eco-friendly. Many companies have already taken measures to be green, including recycling paper and plastics. However, only some have thought about their parking lots. An unpaved lot is unsafe for pedestrians, who are more likely to be injured or hit by vehicles. In addition, it can damage cars. A properly paved and maintained asphalt lot is safer for everyone involved and can help reduce the cost of keeping the parking lot. It can also increase the value of the property. The smoothness of asphalt allows vehicle tires to make great contact with the road, which can also help prevent hydroplaning accidents.
It’s Affordable
Concrete is more expensive than asphalt, which can be applied over larger areas. It must also be sealed once and cleaned twice a year, which is less care than concrete parking lots. It is a great surface for vehicle traffic and is smooth, which helps reduce the wear on tires. The dark surface of asphalt also hides oil drips, stains, and other marks better than concrete does. Lastly, it is not sensitive to extreme temperatures like other pavements can be. It means it can remain cool in warmer weather, which can help reduce cooling costs for the building itself. Asphalt is also used for outdoor athletic surfaces, including basketball courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, running tracks, and more. It is because it is durable and can withstand the abuse of high-speed vehicles. In addition to this, asphalt is recyclable and can be used again, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
It’s Easy to Maintain
Asphalt can be easily freshened up with a coat of sealant. It can help keep your parking lot looking new and prevent cracks from spreading. Asphalt is also a low-glare solution and is more resilient to the sun than concrete. It’s also more flexible than concrete and better able to handle expansion and contraction. Additionally, asphalt can be colored in various ways, adding an element of design to your parking lot. The right asphalt mix will depend on your parking lot’s specific needs. For example, a high-traffic road will need a different combination than a low-traffic parking lot. Choosing a quality contractor who will use the proper mixture for your project is important. The best contractors will have high standards and adhere to rigorous quality control measures. It ensures your parking lot will hold up over time and last long. It will also save you money in the long run, reducing your need for premature repairs and repaving.
