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The parking area is usually the first part
of a facility or building complex seen by its user. It gives a first
impression to customers, employees, and others. With this fact in
mind, every effort should be made to ensure that parking areas are
constructed to be both attractive and long lasting.
The longevity of asphalt parking lots is a function of a properly
graded and compacted gravel foundation beneath the asphalt surface and
an adequate thickness of compacted pavement on top. A granular base
acts as the foundation for asphalt surfaces to support the forces of
traffic. Materials such as topsoil, silt, clay, and sand do not
provide structure beneath pavement and should be removed. Paving over
such materials can quickly lead to cracking, settling and heaving.
Grading ensures that surface water is not allowed to sit on the
pavement. Standing water can deteriorate asphalt prematurely.
Granular and asphalt thickness depends on volumes of traffic expected.
Granular bases should be compacted to no less than 300mm and more
typically 450mm.
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Asphalt lifts for driveways, walkways, parking stalls, and sports
areas are typically compacted to 50mm. Loading docks, roadways, and
fire routes require 75 to 100mm. These heavier lifts are often laid in
two coats.
Following these principles, an asphalt
parking area will provide a smooth and durable surface for many years.
A professionally constructed parking area compliments any building. |
