Parking lot resurfacing is ideal when the surface has become heavily oxidized. DD Mitchell is proud to provide commercial parking lot repair and parking lot maintenance throughout the Cleveland, OH area.
Commercial Parking Lot Repairs & Maintenance
Resurfacing is the process of installing a new layer of asphalt (generally 1-1/2 to 2 inches) over the existing pavement (overlaying). If your commercial parking lot is in need of repairs, resurfacing is a great option. Learn more about our parking lot maintenance services below, or contact our asphalt paving contractors today!
When should a parking lot be resurfaced?
Resurfacing a parking lot is a great solution when the surface has become heavily oxidized or covered in widespread cracks, but the base remains stable. If your parking lot has suffered this type of damage, our asphalt paving services can help restore and maintain your parking lot.
How long should a newly resurfaced lot last?
Our commercial asphalt contractors have a reputation for quality, long-lasting work. Typically, you can expect an overlay to last anywhere from 7 to 15 years. There are many factors that go into this, including:
The condition of the original pavement (prior to resurfacing)
- The drainage
- Types of vehicles using the pavement
- Number of vehicles using the pavement
- The thickness of the new asphalt layer
- And more
How long before traffic is permitted on a newly resurfaced parking lot?
Rubber tires will not damage new asphalt, but you should drive with care. For 24 to 48 hours after resurfacing, avoid sharp turns (especially power-steering marks created by non-moving vehicles).
Why is edge milling prior to resurfacing important?
A key consideration when it comes to commercial parking lots is drainage. How well does the lot drain prior to resurfacing, and how will a new layer of asphalt affect this? As a general rule, an asphalt parking lot should have a minimum slope of 1% for water to flow properly over its service life. This translates to roughly 1″ of slope for every 10 feet. Anything less will not work! Without milling, the new layer of asphalt will sit 1.5” to 2” higher than the existing pavement. In addition, milling removes the old oxidized surface, creating a better bond between the old and new surfaces.
Why can’t a parking lot be resurfaced during the winter months?
The asphalt plants in Northern Ohio are generally closed from Thanksgiving to April 15th. Furthermore, resurfacing in cold weather leads to cold “seams” or “joints”, which can contribute to premature failure. The general rule of thumb is to pave when temperatures are 50°F and rising. Asphalt paving services in the rain are not recommended.
What can we do to maintain our new asphalt after completion?
It is important to implement a pavement maintenance plan and start budgeting as soon as your new asphalt pavement services are complete. Due to Northeast Ohio’s freeze and thaw cycles, some cracks may appear in your asphalt after each winter. Crack filling is a yearly maintenance procedure, designed to prevent moisture from reaching the subbase. To learn more about our crack filling services, call our asphalt paving contractors!
Can you resurface over cracked pavement?
Linear (straight) cracks need to be filled with hot rubber (ODOT #405). Alligator cracks need to be removed and replaced with a full depth pavement repair such as 4” of #448 asphalt pavement and 6” to 8” of stabilized stone base (#304).
What happens to utility valves (Manholes, Water and Gas boxes)?
Our commercial asphalt contractors install iron risers to ensure that utility valves are even with new pavement overlay.
How thick is an overlay (resurface)?
Many engineers specify between 1-½” to 2” thick. Our experienced asphalt paving contractors suggest installing a pavement of 2” for best results.
We called three commercial asphalt contractors for estimates, and each estimate is different. Why?
When you’re ready for pavement work, it’s important to have specifications drawn up from either an engineering firm or a reputable commercial asphalt paving contractor, such as DD Mitchell Construction. For best results, have all contractors bid apples-to-apples. In other words, have them outline your options. When you work with DD Mitchell
Do I really need to completely reconstruct my parking lot – or can I just overlay it?
A resurfacing will only be as good as the underlying base material. If more than 25-30% of the total parking lot area is in need of substantial removal due to subgrade failure or other problems, reconstruction is recommended. In cases like these, it is generally more economical to completely reconstruct the parking lot. Our asphalt paving contractors will asses your parking lot and help you decide on the best option.