Maintaining Parking Lots After Severe Storms: A Guide for Facility Managers

The Importance of Storm Preparedness for Parking Lots

Severe weather can cause havoc on parking lots, causing damage that can be costly to repair and potentially hazardous for users. Facility managers must be proactive in maintaining their properties before and after storms to ensure safety and longevity. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for severe weather, how to maintain parking lots post-storm, and the benefits of hiring experts like Montana Pavement Group for regular maintenance.

Preparing for Severe Weather

1. Regular Inspections
   • Scheduled Checks: Conduct thorough inspections at least twice a year, with additional checks before and after storm seasons.
   • Professional Help: Employ professional inspectors to conduct detailed assessments and provide maintenance recommendations.
2. Proper Drainage Systems
   • Design and Installation: Ensure that your parking lot is designed with an effective drainage system. This might include slopes, curbs, gutters, and stormwater drains.
   • Routine Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain all drainage components to prevent blockages that can lead to flooding and water damage.
3. Seal Coating
   • Frequency: Apply a seal coat every 2-3 years, or more frequently if your parking lot experiences heavy traffic or severe weather conditions.
   • Benefits: Seal coating provides a protective layer that extends the life of the pavement by preventing damage from water, oil, and UV rays.
4. Crack Filling
   • Early Intervention: Fill cracks as soon as they appear to prevent water infiltration and subsequent damage.
   • Quality Materials: Use high-quality crack sealants that can withstand temperature fluctuations and heavy use.
5. Routine Cleaning
   • Debris Removal: Regularly sweep and clean the parking lot to remove debris, which can cause blockages and surface damage.
   • Oil and Grease Cleanup: Promptly clean oil and grease spills to prevent deterioration of the asphalt.

Post-Storm Parking Lot Maintenance

1. Inspection and Assessment
   • Initial Walkthrough: Conduct a detailed inspection immediately after the storm subsides. Look for visible damage such as cracks, potholes, and pooling water.
   • Detailed Documentation: Take photos and notes to document the condition of the parking lot. This will be useful for insurance claims and to track the deterioration over time.
   • Professional Assessment: Consider hiring a professional to perform a comprehensive assessment. Experts can identify underlying damage that might not be immediately visible to the untrained eye.
2. Debris Removal
   • Safety First: Ensure that the area is safe to enter. Remove any large debris that could pose immediate hazards.
   • Clearing the Surface: Use blowers, brooms, and sweepers to remove smaller debris, leaves, and branches. This helps prevent damage to the pavement surface and drainage systems.
   • Disposal: Properly dispose of debris according to local regulations to avoid fines and environmental impact.
3. Address Standing Water
   • Immediate Action: Standing water can lead to severe pavement damage if not addressed promptly. Use pumps to remove any large puddles.
   • Check Drainage Systems: Inspect and clean out drainage grates, inlets, and pipes to ensure they are not clogged. Effective drainage is crucial to prevent future water accumulation.
   • Long-Term Solutions: If your parking lot frequently suffers from standing water, consider grading adjustments or installing additional drainage solutions.
4. Repair Cracks and Potholes
   • Temporary Fixes: Apply cold patch or temporary fillers to potholes and cracks if immediate repair is needed.
   • Permanent Repairs: Schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible. This may involve cutting out damaged areas and repaving them or filling cracks with hot-pour crack sealant.
   • Preventive Measures: Use quality materials that expand and contract with temperature changes to prevent future cracks and potholes.
5. Check for Structural Damage
   • Surface Inspection: Look for signs of raveling, rutting, and other surface deformities.
   • Subsurface Damage: Hire experts to check for subsurface issues such as soil erosion, which can compromise the structural integrity of the pavement.
   • Timely Repairs: Address any identified structural issues promptly to prevent further damage and potential hazards.
6. Resealing and Striping
   • Seal Coating: Apply a fresh seal coat to protect the asphalt from water, UV rays, and oil spills. Seal coating also enhances the appearance of the parking lot.
   • Re-Striping: Ensure that all parking space lines, directional arrows, and other markings are clearly visible. Fresh striping improves traffic flow and safety.

Hiring an Expert: Montana Pavement Group

When it comes to maintaining parking lots, hiring experts can save time and money while ensuring high-quality results. Montana Pavement Group specializes in comprehensive pavement services, including concrete and asphalt paving, striping, seal coating, and crack filling. Here’s why you should consider hiring us:

1. Expertise and Experience
   • Specialized Knowledge: Montana Pavement Group has extensive experience in handling all aspects of pavement maintenance and repair. Our team of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and skills to address any issue promptly and effectively.
   • Professional Training: Our staff undergoes continuous training to stay updated with the latest techniques and industry standards.
2. Quality Materials and Equipment
   • Top-Notch Materials: Montana Pavement uses only the best materials that ensure durable and long-lasting repairs.
   • Advanced Equipment: State-of-the-art equipment allows us to perform high-quality work efficiently and effectively.
3. Customized Solutions
   • Tailored Plans: Montana Pavement Group offers tailored maintenance plans to suit the specific needs of your property. This ensures optimal performance and longevity of your parking lot.
   • Flexible Scheduling: We work around your schedule to minimize disruptions to your business operations.
4. Cost-Effective
   • Preventive Maintenance: Regular maintenance by professionals can prevent costly repairs down the line. Investing in expert services now can save money in the long run.
   • Transparent Pricing: Montana Pavement provides clear and detailed quotes, so you know exactly what to expect.
5. Safety and Compliance
   • High Safety Standards: Montana Pavement Group ensures that all work is performed to the highest safety standards, protecting both workers and users.
   • Regulatory Compliance: We comply with all local regulations and industry standards, giving you peace of mind that your parking lot is in good hands.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of parking lots, especially after severe weather, is crucial for the safety and longevity of the pavement. Facility managers must be proactive in preparing for storms and addressing issues promptly. Hiring experts like Montana Pavement Group ensures that your parking lot receives the best care, keeping it in optimal condition year-round. Regular inspections, proper drainage, seal coating, and crack filling are key components of a comprehensive maintenance plan to withstand extreme weather conditions.

For more information on how Montana Pavement Group can assist with your parking lot maintenance needs, contact us today at 833-668-6626 or at montana-pavement.com. Our team of experts is ready to help you protect and preserve your investment!