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The winter months are a menace for parking lots and pavements that need to be adequately prepared. In areas where the winter brings freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, they wreak havoc for businesses with parking pavements and lots. The brutal weather conditions encourage organizations to take parking lot winterization seriously. They should plan by the end of the summer to start preparing the parking lots and pavements for the winter in the early weeks of fall. There are several ways to plan for parking lot winterization and to safeguard the business from winter havoc.
What is the Need for Parking Pavement/Lot Winterization?
Risks for Businesses
Failure to resolve damages due to extreme winter conditions poses risks for business parking pavements and those using them. If the property demands resurfacing before it is buried in the snow, postponing the treatment allows the cracks and potholes to grow. It often doubles during winter because of the contraction and expansion of snow water under the surface. Pre-existing pits or sods in the sidewalks worsen, making the path for customer navigation hazardous. Fixing the problems earlier is cheaper and more straightforward than resolving big problems later. The worst part is that minor issues quickly transform into critical challenges.
Damage Escalates Due to Brutal Winter Conditions
Problems and issues that could be resolved by simple resurfacing before winter hits demand full-depth repair or replacement before resurfacing by summertime or spring. This is because the damage escalates fast during brutal winter conditions. Parking pavement or lot irregularities are ugly, risky, and costly liabilities. Things are more dangerous when slick ice covers the pavements, as it is difficult to spot or identify. Therefore, businesses should invest in parking lot winterization before freezing temperatures and snow start their havoc.
Treatments to Protect the Business/Property
Withstanding Winter Havocs
Brutal winter conditions play havoc on all types of parking lots and pavement surfaces. Several businesses invest in effective winterization strategies to combat the challenges, leveraging the benefits of road salt, snow plows, and shovels. A well-maintained and winterized parking lot withstands most winter havoc because of preventive measures like freshly painted lot markings and seal coating. The treatment and maintenance enhance the chances of the business to remain visible throughout the winter, which is a challenge. It reduces liabilities significantly as accidents are rare, saving money in the long run.
Cost-Effective and Wise Move
Potholes and cracks should be repaired urgently before winter. It is because the winter condition expands the size of cracks, making the pavements hazardous for navigation and expensive to repair or replace. Uneven concrete on pavements, parking lots, and sidewalks is a risk factor. Sealcoating and asphalt fills are excellent ways to eliminate the degradation of parking lots. Businesses should ensure that pavements, parking spaces, and sidewalks are safe before freezing temperatures create havoc. Investing in parking lot winterization is a wise move because it is cost-effective and safeguards the property from expensive repairs and replacements.
Steps for Parking Lot Winterization
Routine Walkthrough
Businesses should assess parking lots, pavements, and sidewalks quarterly for potential issues. They should begin by looking for areas with stagnant water. It is because water breaks down asphalt binders and leaks deep, eroding the paved areas. The next step is to evaluate for chemicals and oil leaks directly into the parking lots and pavements. Similar to water, chemicals break down and result in subsurface issues. In the case of cracks, uneven areas, and pits, fixing them is a must because they quickly turn into big problems.
Cleaning Debris
Despite having the best drainage plan, a business parking lot can be a mess during the winter if it is unprepared to withstand the brutal freezing temperatures and snow. Businesses should clear debris and dirt from drainage channels and sewers so that there is seamless water flow, eliminating the chances of a mess.
Double Checking the Seal
Even if the business pavements and sidewalks don’t have potholes, cracks, or uneven surfaces, they should be sealed-coated every five years. Seal coating rejuvenates the asphalt binder, giving additional protection during the winter. Additionally, it protects paved surfaces against heavy traffic, water, and chemical spills.
Conclusion
From the above analysis, it is clear that parking lot winterization is a simple and cost-effective method to maintain a business’s compelling look and make pavements, parking lots, and sidewalks safe to navigate, especially during winter. Businesses should invest in efficient and high-quality winterization techniques and strategies.
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