Parking lots require maintenance to ensure safety and functionality. They may develop cracks and small holes that expand with time due to corrosion and vehicle movement. Patching potholes prevents them from damaging the entire parking lot. It also reduces liability and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property.
Here is how you can perfect your parking spaces by repairing potholes.
Assess the Damage
The first step when patching potholes is to assess the damage. Inspect the parking lot to identify the number of holes, their depth, and width. This measure helps you determine the material needed for repairs. You can also plan the work in phases to ensure vehicle owners have somewhere to park.
Prepare the Surface
Once you estimate the scope of the work, you need to prepare the parking lot. Remove dust and debris from the potholes by sweeping with a gentle brush. Ensure you eliminate all loose asphalt particles and debris around the surface.
Preparing potholes before patching them gets rid of materials that could affect adhesion. It ensures the new layer bonds properly with the surrounding material.
Fill the Potholes
The method applied when patching potholes can vary based on your parking lot. You can use a hot or cold mixture if you have an asphalt space.
A cold mixture is ideal when patching potholes in cold weather. It is relatively cheaper than a hot one and comes in a ready-to-use form. However, it doesn’t last long and is only a temporary fix for potholes.
Hot asphalt is ideal for filling potholes during summer and spring. It requires heating up to 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot asphalt is a durable solution to parking lot potholes.
When patching potholes on a concrete parking lot, you need a concrete mix for uniformity and bonding.
Compact the Material
Once you fill the potholes, it’s time to compact the mixture. You can use a hand tamper if the holes are small and few. This tool is also suitable for patching potholes in areas that large equipment might not reach. These include around bends and along the sidewalk.
Smooth Out Bumps
Leveling a patched parking lot avoids tripping hazards. It guarantees smooth vehicle movement and improves appearance. Smooth out any irregularities when patching potholes to ensure longevity. You can use a rake on asphalt and a hand planer on dried concrete.
Apply Sealant
Applying a sealant after patching potholes enhances durability. It protects the surface against water and UV damage. Sealing your parking lot is also an excellent way to minimize chemical corrosion from oil and deicing salt.
Perfecting Patching Potholes With Professional Help
Patching potholes requires specific materials and equipment. You must follow the discussed steps and ensure the surface has the proper texture for skid resistance.
Hiring a patching professional is the best way to ensure appropriate application and precision. An expert will use the right tools and finish the job quickly. You ultimately reduce costs by avoiding major repairs in the future.
Call Georgia Wildcat Paving for Pothole Patching
Georgia Wildcat Paving will repair your parking lot with the best methods. We are experts in patching potholes with high-quality materials that guarantee safety. Besides, we have top-of-the-line equipment for any job size. Call us today to perfect your parking lot.
