ADA Accessible Parking Requirements

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued new regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 2010. The new rules affect state and local governments (Title II of the ADA), as well as public accommodations and commercial facilities (Title III). The regulations include the new 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, outlining minimum accessibility requirements for buildings and facilities.

Existing Facilities

New construction projects must meet minimum standards with very few exceptions; alterations are also subject to strict requirements, although they may be more affected by existing structural conditions. Existing buildings and facilities which are not undergoing planned alterations are viewed a little differently.

Title II: Program Access

State and local government agencies that offer programs, services, or activities in existing facilities need to make sure that people with disabilities can gain access and participate in these activities. There are a variety of ways that agencies can ensure access to programs, but making structural improvements is often necessary.

Title III: Barrier Removal

Both commercial facilities and public accommodations must follow standards for new construction and alterations. Additionally, public accommodations (private businesses that are open to the general public, like retail stores, restaurants, banks, parking garages, and many others) must remove barriers when it is “readily achievable” to do so; readily achievable means “easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense.” Designating accessible parking is often readily achievable, and is considered a top priority because it enables many people with disabilities to “get in the door.”

Safe Harbor

The 2010 regulations include a “safe harbor” for features that already comply with the 1991 standards, but may not meet the new 2010 standards. For example: A retail store’s parking lot has a total of 250 parking spaces; in compliance with 1991 standards, the lot includes seven accessible spaces, one of which is van-accessible. The 2010 standards would require two van-accessible spaces, but the store does not have to modify its parking lot to provide the additional space until the lot undergoes a planned alteration (re-striping, re-surfacing, etc.) after March 15, 2012. If the lot is altered after that time, it will then be brought into compliance with the 2010 standards, to the maximum extent feasible.

How many accessible parking spaces are needed?

One of every six accessible parking spaces, or fraction thereof, must be “van-accessible.” For example: A parking lot with 400 total spaces needs eight accessible spaces, and two of those eight spaces must be van-accessible. Accessible spaces must connect to the shortest possible accessible route to the accessible building entrance or facility they serve.

Total Number of Parking Spaces in a Parking Facility - Minimum Number of Accessible Parking Spaces Required

1-25 - 1
26-50 - 2
51-75 - 3
76-100 - 4
101-150 - 5
151-200 - 6
201-300 - 7
301-400 - 8
401-500 - 9
501-1000 - 2% of total
1001 and over - 20, plus 1 for each 100, or fraction thereof, over 1000

Where a parking facility serves multiple buildings or accessible entrances, accessible parking spaces should be dispersed to enable people to park near as many accessible entrances as possible. For example: A shopping center has fifteen stores, each with a separate entrance. There is one large parking lot with 1000 spaces. The twenty accessible parking spaces should be dispersed to provide some options for people to park close to the different stores.

Where separate parking facilities serve the same building or entrance, accessible spaces may be grouped together, as long as the number of spaces provided is determined according to each of the separate parking facilities. For example: A sports stadium has an adjacent parking lot with 1000 spaces and a separate parking lot several blocks away with an additional 1500 spaces. The adjacent lot needs 20 accessible spaces (four of which need to be van-accessible), and the remote lot needs 25 accessible spaces (five of which need to be van-accessible). Since accessible spaces need to be as near as possible to the facilities they serve, the 45 accessible spaces (including nine van-accessible) can be located in the lot adjacent to the stadium.

What do accessible parking spaces look like?

Medical Facilities

• Certain types of medical facilities need more accessible parking.
• Hospital outpatient facilities need 10% of patient/visitor spaces to be accessible.

Rehabilitation facilities that specialize in treating mobility-related conditions and outpatient physical therapy facilities need 20% of patient/visitor spaces to be accessible.

The number of van-accessible spaces is still one of every six accessible parking spaces, or fraction thereof.

For example: An outpatient physical therapy facility has a parking lot with 50 total spaces for employees only. Following basic requirements, that lot will need two accessible spaces, one of which will be van-accessible. A separate lot with 200 total spaces is provided for patients and visitors; this lot will need 40 accessible spaces, seven of which will be van-accessible.

Exceptions

Parking facilities that are used exclusively for buses, trucks, delivery vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, and vehicular impound are not required to include accessible spaces, but if such lots are accessed by the public (e.g. impounded vehicle retrieval) then an accessible passenger loading zone must be provided.

Dimensions (all dimensions are minimums): Accessible parking spaces are eight (8) feet wide; van-accessible spaces are eleven (11) feet wide. Access aisles for either type of space are five (5) feet wide. These adjacent aisles, which can be shared between two spaces, provide room for individuals to deploy vehicle-mounted wheelchair lifts and/or unload and use mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, etc. An alternate design allows a van-accessible space to be eight (8) feet wide if the adjacent access aisle is also eight (8) feet wide.

Access aisles must be marked (e.g., painted with hatch marks) to discourage parking in them. This is especially important where the alternate design is used and an access aisle at a van-accessible space is the same size as the space.

The surface of accessible spaces and access aisles must be smooth, stable, and virtually level in all directions to ensure safe use for people with disabilities, including those who must load, unload, and use wheeled mobility devices.

Additionally, van-accessible spaces, their associated access aisles, and the vehicular routes serving them must provide vertical clearance of at least 98 inches to allow for the height of typical wheelchair lift-equipped vehicles.

Signs

Accessible parking spaces must be identified by signs that include the International Symbol of Accessibility. Signs at van-accessible spaces must include the additional phrase “van-accessible.”

Signs should be mounted so that the lower edge of the sign is at least five (5) feet above the ground. This helps ensure visibility both for motorists and local enforcement officials.

Exceptions

Parking lots that have four or fewer total spaces do not need to designate the accessible space with a sign. This means that for the purposes of local enforcement (at least in most jurisdictions), anyone, with or without a disability, can park in the accessible space. This is intended to excuse very small entities from having to reserve 25% to 100% of their available parking for individuals with disabilities.

Residential facilities where parking spaces are assigned to specific dwelling units are also exempt from the requirement to post signs at accessible spaces.

Note that these two exemptions are only related to signs; accessible parking spaces must still be provided in appropriate numbers and with other required features (minimum width, etc.).

Maintenance

It is important that accessible features be maintained, and outdoor spaces can be especially challenging because of weather and other conditions. Accessible parking spaces, aisles, and routes should be maintained in good repair and kept clear of snow, ice, or fallen leaf build-up.

Other Laws, Other Requirements

The ADA establishes these requirements to ensure that when parking facilities are provided by entities covered by Title II or Title III, accessible spaces with certain features are available. Many state and local governments have their own requirements, which may be more specific or more stringent in some ways.

Each state also establishes criteria and procedures to issue accessible parking permits (often in the form of distinctive license plates or placards) to individuals with disabilities. Enforcement activities related to these issues (fraudulent use of permits, illegal parking in accessible spaces, etc.) are typically carried out by state and local authorities, such as city police departments.

Other requirements may be relevant in different situations or under different laws. For example, the Fair Housing Act requires covered housing providers to make “reasonable accommodations” for residents with disabilities, which could mean reserving a parking space for a specific individual.

Article Source: https://adata.org/factsheet/parking

Asphalt Pavement Maintenance Planning

Do you have an asphalt maintenance plan in place for your facility? As asphalt surfaces age, erode and become brittle, proper periodic assessment and treatments are essential in maintaining a quality surface and infrastructure. The appropriate course of action can save time and money by making sure the maintenance applications are matched to the severity of the pavement problems.

Understanding Defects

There are typically three types of asphalt failures: Surface, Bond, and Structural Failures. For surface failures there can be raveling, and transverse or longitudinal cracking problems. Raveling is the loss of aggregate from the surface as a result of abrading action from wheels. Longitudinal cracks run in the direction of traffic and transverse cracks are 90 degrees to longitudinal cracks. Longitudinal cracks are typically caused from shrinkage.

Bonding failures are usually in the form of slippage between two layers of surfacing causing cracks in the upper layer. In some cases the combination of bonding and crack failures causes the top layer to flake off in chunks.

The most severe defects are structural cracking which can include fatigue cracking and rutting. Fatigue cracking results from the surface being flexed up and down from heavy loads going by. The cracks are very close together and look like an alligator's skin. This defect occurs when the underlying road section can no longer support the loads being applied to the pavement. One heavy truck can flex and damage a road more than thousands of cars passing over the same spot. Rutting is a depression of the pavement in the wheel path and is usually continuous throughout a pavement. It can occur in just the asphalt layer or throughout the entire infrastructure of asphalt, base, and soil.

Types of Treatments

The difference types of actions one can choose will vary with the defects and extent of damage found on the pavement surface. The potential solutions can include surface seal coats, crack filling, slurry seals, selective dig-outs and patching, or full overlays.

Within the use of surface seal coats, there are several to choose from. They include slurry, cape, micro-surfacing, fog, and rubberized chip seals to name a few. A fog seal contains no aggregate or sand and is spray applied to keep the surface aggregate in place. A surface seal coat is a mixture of sand and asphalt emulsion with other fillers. It provides a uniform black surface and protects from UV damage and reduces water intrusion. A slurry seal consists of emulsified asphalt binder, a graded fine aggregate additive and water and is applied by machines with pressure.

An overlay is used over the top of an existing pavement surface to strengthen and protect the original structure. It can be applied at various thicknesses and also can be rubberized. Sometimes milling is required before the overlay when excessive heights are an issue to prevent any potential trip hazards. Also the use of paving grids and fabrics over the top of an existing cracked pavement can provide additional strength and water intrusion protection.

Choosing a Plan of Action

Parking lots primarily utilize asphalt seal coats, slurry seals and sand seals. These seals are designed for use in areas that will have constant turning forces. The oils are harder than chip and cape seal oils and lessen tire marking on the pavement.

Streets generally utilize slurry, chip, cape seals or micro-surfacing. These treatments vary depending on the conditions of the road. Crack filling and dig-out repairs must be completed prior to the placement of the surface treatments to obtain the maximum performance life.

So you can see there are various failures modes from minor surface issues to major structural failures and there are a wide variety of treatments to deal with them. Plus following an overall maintenance plan through the lifecycle of the pavement will help prevent early failure and maintain the asset through its expected lifetime. The best way to get started is to have an asphalt engineering firm or quality asphalt contractor assess your situation and provide guidance on what the most economical course of action would be for your situation.

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Commonly Used Driveway Materials

Many potential homeowners never give a second thought to driveway materials when looking at homes. However, a driveway can serve as an important part of any home's first impression. A driveway can connect the property to the street and is often one of the first things that someone notices when they pull up to a property. The types of driveway materials vary, but the most commonly found types are, concrete, asphalt, gravel, and brick/paving stones. No matter what type of driveway you install, you can add value, a unique style and curb appeal to your home.

Commonly Used Driveway Materials

Driveways typically can last a few decades with proper care and maintenance. The most basic, and often least expensive, are gravel driveways. Concrete and asphalt fall closely behind and both can add value to the home. Some homeowners spend a little more money to gain a more customized driveway.

Asphalt and concrete driveways remain as the two most popular driveway materials in the United States. But there are pro's and con's to each. Asphalt can be easier to repair and costs less to install. However, concrete typically requires less maintenance overall and also lasts longer.

Brick and paver driveways can provide up to 25 years of use. While the paver and brick looks can add great curb appeal to the home, the downside is that they can shift over time. If a paver or brick is broken, it can be easily replaced, but initially this type of driveway is more expensive than asphalt or concrete on average. However, brick and paver driveways require the least amount of maintenance and can create the biggest visual impact for a driveway.

Stamped concrete can be used, not only for a driveway, but also for walkways and patios. Patterns can be utilized that mimic tile, brick, stone and other custom designs. Stamped concrete can be less expensive than installing brick pavers and also require less maintenance when sealed properly.

Gravel or crushed stone are the least expensive of all driveway options and offer a variety of choices to choose from. This type of driveway material can be installed quickly and can also be added to over time as rocks settle. The downside of gravel is that it has a shorter life expectancy and typically doesn't add much, if any, value to a property.

Tips For Installing And Maintaining A Driveway:

• If you are hiring a contractor, then be sure that the contractor is knowledgeable and has experience with the specific type of driveway material that you are installing. When looking for a contractor, make sure to compare bids and also ensure that the bid includes the base materials.


• Don't hire a contractor based on getting a deal on "leftover" materials. These can be difficult to match and may not be enough to cover the entire driveway surface.


• Always get a written estimate and do a site review with the contractor to ensure that everyone agrees to the surface area to be covered.


• Consider the slope of the driveway and different drainage options. You want to verify that the water won't pool and the driveway will be sloped away from the home and garage.


• Know where any underground utilities are in relation to the driveway.


• Site preparation is key to building a driveway that will last. Don't skimp on this important step of any driveway construction.


• When considering what to choose as the driveway surface, make sure to take into account cost, regional weather, upkeep, stain removal and crack repairs.

A driveway can serve as the first impression that visitors receive of your home. By installing and maintaining an inviting driveway, you can guarantee that visitors are welcomed by the pathway to your home. Not only can a driveway enhance the appearance of your home, but it can also add character as well. No matter what type of driveway you choose, you can ensure that it will last for many years to come and will also be an excellent investment.

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Why You Need an Asphalt Sealer on Your Parking Lot

Asphalt sealer makes a huge difference in the visual appeal of a parking lot and the entrance to any business. Driving into a parking lot that has had a fresh coat of asphalt sealer recently applied gives the appearance of a clean, well-kept establishment. But, that's not all sealcoating does! Asphalt sealcoating protects a parking lot surface from the elements and from erosion.

Asphalt pavement is a pliable surface which makes it more forgiving than concrete. Taking years to fully cure, during the first couple of years, especially on hot sunny days, minor scarring can occur from tractor tires and other heavy vehicles making sharp turns. While these dents don't necessarily hurt the structural integrity of the pavements surface, what you should look out for are cracks. Asphalt cracks can indicate a serious issue.

Asphalt Cracks & Water

If you begin seeing asphalt cracks in your parking lots surface, they deserve a closer look. Water that seeps into asphalt though cracks causes damage. As water runs over a parking lot its constant wear and tear breaks down the asphalt, eroding away the smaller pieces. This erosion leads to a bigger problem, foundation erosion. Left untreated, a small crack penetrated by water will turn into a pothole and into a large repair bills.

First Layer of Defense

High-quality, commercial grade asphalt sealer should be applied to a new asphalt parking lot after the surface cures, which will take approximately 90 days. After the initial sealcoating, a good rule of thumb to reapply another coat of asphalt sealer is two years. This time frame can vary slightly depending on a few factors such as climate, amount of wear and tear from traffic and other environmental issues. In general, when the surface of the asphalt begins to fade, it's time to sealcoat.

Sealcoating does exactly what it sounds like it should do. It seals the surface of the parking lot. Once sealed, water will roll off your pavement instead of soaking in to the substructure.

Asphalt Parking Lots Deserve the Best Care

In Florida, with the hot sun, asphalt sealer will dry quickly. In some regions, quick drying additives can be used to speed drying times. However, in most cases, traffic can return to its usual drive patterns within twelve hours.

Installing an asphalt surface can be quite an investment for a commercial property. Protecting such an investment with asphalt sealer just makes good financial sense.

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Things to Consider Before Hiring An Asphalt Paving Company

The use of asphalt demands specific methods as well as tools. So when it's time for you to repave your driveway, the sidewalk of your business or even a parking lot, you have to pick an asphalt paving company that provides the absolute best service for your needs.

For a number of individuals, choosing an asphalt paving company appears like an easy thing to do. Usually, you only contact several companies over the phone, get a quotation, and then pick the cheapest one. Though this method may be acceptable for many, it's certainly not for someone who is after quality results, or if the work carried out is worth every penny spent. There are numerous points you need to consider before you pick a paving company for your project.

Listed here are several recommendations when choosing a good asphalt paving company

The first thing you want to do is to actually gather info about the outfit. Check the company's background, the number of years they have been in business, as well as feedbacks of their former tasks or jobs. It's similarly essential to find out if the company's license and insurance coverage are legal as well as in good standing. Ensure that the company is connected well for your own protection.

An additional important suggestion is to talk to the individual in charge, or ideally the manager of the company. You would want to speak with them with regards to information about the prospective job like the steps they will undertake when it comes to paving, how long the process will be, and other vital issues that you'd like talk about. This is your chance to obtain information concerning the business and it will make you determine whether this company satisfies your expectations.

Ask for an estimate before starting the task. Almost all businesses will undoubtedly support you with this particular demand. It will most likely help you to know if the budget you allotted for this certain project is good enough.

Ask the company if they provide an all-inclusive service. You won't want to use one company with regard to sidewalks and a totally different one for your driveways or parking lots. With regards to convenience, choose an outfit that can take care of all your needs.

It is extremely necessary to take into consideration the expertise of the asphalt paving company before hiring them. A legit contractor certainly has past projects that they will show off. You can attempt requesting some people who might have been former customers, or have worked with said contractor about how good the end result of their work is.

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Your Driveway - The Stages and Solutions

Your driveway will go through a lot of changes from the time it’s new to the day you have to replace it. Each stage requires a different plan of action and the list below will help steer you in the right direction.

Stage 1: Preventative Maintenance

For the first few years your driveway will only need preventative maintenance, sealcoating and crack filling every other year. Your driveway will stay in Stage 1 for as long as the cracks are not interconnected (alligatoring) and are not accompanied by settlement. Find a good local Sealcoater that will provide a written estimate.

Stage 2: Surface or Base Defects 

Your driveway has entered Stage 2 when sealcoating and crack filling alone will not take care of the problem areas. The driveway may have settled at the garage or curb (very common) or developed spider / alligator cracking or potholes. At this point, you’ll need an asphalt repair to get your surface back in shape. Call an asphalt repair company that can either perform infrared repair or saw cut and remove repairs. The every other year sealcoating and crack filling regimen mentioned in stage 1 should continue throughout stage 2.

Stage 3: Replacement or Resurfacing 

When 20% or more of your driveway is in poor condition, it’s probably time for a new surface. At this point repairs are no longer a cost effective alternative. If you find yourself saying my driveway has potholes, cracking or settlement all over, it’s time to start over with a new driveway. Call a paving contractor and ask them whether you need complete removal and replacement or if resurfacing over your existing surface may be an option.There are certain circumstances that can make a case for repairing a driveway that’s in very bad shape. You may not have budgeted for a new driveway, but have some areas that can’t wait. In that case just repair the very worst areas to get you by until a new driveway is in the budget.

A typical driveway will last 10-15 years, but this can vary due to the quality of the initial installation, poor drainage, ground movement and proper maintenance. The key is to find quality contractors that will recommend the right process for your driveway’s condition, regardless of whether they provide that service or not.

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Asphalt Paving: Striping Your Parking Lot

As you may already know, asphalt paved parking lots do need maintenance from time to time. One known asphalt paving maintenance technique is to have your parking lot re-striped to add a nicer look to existing asphalt paving properties.

The repainting (striping) of an asphalt lot usually takes place every one to two years; it mostly depends on the amount of wear and tear made by people driving on the asphalt paved lots. First, the lot must be cleaned and checked to see if there are any major problems with the lot currently.

As a rule of thumb, the number of parking spaces on the lot will typically designate how many handicapped spaces are required. By using high quality paint when asphalt striping, you will ensure a greater life expectancy of the clean look of your paved lot. The lines have to be as bright as possible for people who will park in between them at a later date. The striping also serves to direct the parking lot traffic to ensure safety of drivers. You want to make it as easy as possible for drivers to see where they are supposed to go at all given times.

Also, by having very bright yellow speed bumps on your asphalt paved parking lot, you make it safer for those who will not be in cars as well. Also, the proper signs must be displayed on the parking lots as well, i.e., crosswalks, loading zone, and handicapped signs. The lines that will be put on the parking lot will first be chalked to ensure a clean straight look when the work is done.

Furthermore, a walk behind style striping machine will be used to get the best painted lines that are approximately 6 millimeters when dry. The lines can not be driven on until the paint has had adequate time to fully dry (at-least 30 minutes).

When the asphalt parking lot has been striped, any debris that is on the lot will be collected and taken away from the property.

The final stage of the asphalt striping is to put up barricades to keep other drivers from entering or exiting your asphalt parking lot. Striping is a great way to keep a parking lot looking new and professional. Costs spent in advance for asphalt striping now will definitely be lower as compared to later. Always take a proactive approach to asphalt paving maintenance. Those who choose not to take good care of their lots will pay the price in the long run. Customers always appreciate a well designed and painted parking lot. It is the first thing that customers see when visiting your property, so it should look great. A freshly striped asphalt parking lot can lead to a positive overall impression of your property.

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Asphalt Paving Contractor: How to Choose an Excellent Contractor

Choosing a good asphalt paving contractor can be tricky. There are many contractors out there who will try to scam you out of your money. If you're a private homeowner who does not have enough experience in handling paving projects, here are some tips on how to find reliable asphalt paving contractor and acquiring high quality work.

First and foremost, always choose contactors who are famous for the quality of their job. Here's what you can do:

1. Look for their names in phonebooks or the internet.

2. Check if they have insurance certificate to their name

3. Check their portfolio and assess the quality of their previous jobs and work locations

4. Check if they have tons of testimonials to their credit.

Because of the stiff competition nowadays, many asphalt paving companies or asphalt paving contractors make use of all the ways and means to advertise their names. In fact, even scammers are fully capable of creating false advertising and they are individuals whom you don't want to find.

To distinguish the best asphalt paving contractor, here are some probing questions that you can ask:

1. Do they have in-depth knowledge of the current technologies and techniques?

2. Can they offer good customer service before and after the job? And what kind of customer service can they offer?

3. Do they also perform other kind of value-added services?

4. How do they communicate with their clients?

5. Ask them what their definition of quality products and services that they provide

6. Do they have knowledgeable sales personnel who can clearly tell you of the benefits, and options for several approaches that they will implement during repair?

7. How long have they been in the asphalt paving business?

8. How long will they be able to complete the job?

These are useful questions that you can ask during comparison shopping. Comparison shopping is done so you can get several proposals from more than one paving contractor. This way, you'll be able to choose the best from the rest. Keep in mind that you must not easily accept contractors who will offer their services at a lower price. Carefully examine their track record and the products that they are using.

And lastly, to seal the deal, insist on creating a written agreement. This will protect you and the pavement contractor's interest as well.

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The Strong Foundation For Any Pavement - Asphalt Paving

Most homes have driveways which would require durable pavement. At home, the residential infrastructures which include the drive way pavement can enhance the security, beauty and aesthetic appeal of the whole property. Many pavement contractors offer different kinds of paving services. These services include construction of driveways, parking areas, cubs as well as patching services.

Most homes are never complete without driveways. In America where most people are driving their own vehicles, the residential area requires a specific path for the cars or vans. Because of this necessity, paving had become an essential requirement under home construction. You can never ignore the need to pave your driveway.

Paving had made its importance be recognized in all sectors, be it residential, commercial or industrial. At home, the residential infrastructures which include the drive way pavement can enhance the security, beauty and aesthetic appeal of the whole property. It may not occur to you but then - the pavement contribute to the beautification of the building, not to mention the additional value. As driveways are usually found in the frontal area of most buildings, you will realize that aside from providing a space where the vehicle runs, this sort of pavement adds charm to the whole structure.

To accomplish the herculean task of rendering professional paving services, many contractors are now in this business. Many pavement contractors offer different kinds of paving services. These services include construction of driveways, parking areas, cubs as well as patching services.

On drive way foundation

Construction of drive ways is a very significant activity that is performed in residential, commercial and industrial establishments. Professional contractors will ensure that they have created beautiful, impressive, sturdy and rock solid pavements. These firms build the area with concrete or stone or asphalt and other materials. The choice of materials can be a decision of the building owner but in many cases, there are suggestions that the asphalt paving is more beneficial. Aside from the actual construction, these professionals also render cleaning, maintenance and repair services.

Building of parking areas and lots

A bigger contract for these professional asphalt or concrete pavers can involve huge parking areas and parking lots. As these areas will be used for more heavy duty activities, these are expected to be ultra sturdy. Thus, your efficient contractor is obligated to use only the finest and highest quality materials. The goal is for the longevity of the parking area and this can only be done by reliable contracting companies.

Curb construction and repair

Your curb can affect the look of your residence or commercial establishment. Damaged curb can be an eyesore that will repel customers for commercial establishment customers. The effect is the same for residential buildings - where people will hardly appreciate the beauty and façade of your home when you curb is damaged.

Patching Services

Another service rendered by the paving contractors is patching service. These patching services can be construction or repair of parks, speed bumps, curbs and even parking areas, driveways and walkways. Topnotch professional paving service providers can offer high quality repairs and patching techniques that can restore the durability and quality of the park, bump, curb, parking area, walkway and driveway.

Look around your property and check if there are any pavements that need repair. Or perhaps, there is a sparse area to be paved and done with. And before you accomplish the contract, be sure that you have evaluated the kind of pavement that is needed. And have you ever compared asphalt paving to other materials? Remember that for many property owners who ever had used asphalt paving attest to the durability, beauty and cost effectiveness of this material.

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Reasons Why You Should Maintain Your Asphalt Pavement

If you own a property that has asphalt pavement for a driveway or parking area you will need to take necessary steps in order to maintain the surface. If the proper steps are taken to maintain the asphalt surface, it can last for many years. There are some costs involved in maintaining the parking lot but ultimately it is much cheaper than having to replace it.

You should always try to keep water from penetrating your asphalt's surface. Water is one of the largest factors which can lead to asphalt deterioration. Usually water will make its way into the asphalt by the cracks in the pavement's surface. Crack filling will help to prevent the water from entering into the asphalt's surface. Crack filling is a process where rubberized asphalt material is heated and then applied into the crack in the asphalt's surface. The rubberized asphalt dries and fills the crack, thus keeping water from entering. All cracks in the surface should be filled before more troublesome, larger more expensive repairs are needed. If left untreated, these cracks will eventually lead to potholes. Potholes are large holes in the asphalt's surface where the water has affected the sub grade under the surface.

Another factor in maintaining an asphalts surface is sealcoating. Sealcoating is a necessary step in maintaining your parking lot or driveway. Sealcoating is applied to the surface of the pavement using a sprayer and a squeegee. The sealcoating material will help to defend against any ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays can break down the binder material in the asphalt material. As the binder material is broken down, aggregates and sands become loosened. The sealcoating process can normally be applied quickly and easily.

It is a good idea to have these steps applied by a professional. You can normally find a professional in the local phone book or on the internet. You can search asphalt paving companies or asphalt paving contractors to receive the help that you are seeking.

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