How to Repair a Concrete Parking Lot
Repair a Concrete Parking Lot
Keeping a parking lot in great condition requires constant maintenance. There are several elements that can cause concrete to break down, including weather and age. Properly installed concrete parking lots can last for up to 30 years, but eventually they will begin to show signs of wear and tear. This means that it’s time to start thinking about how to repair concrete parking lot.
Sealing the surface is a good way to minimize the need for parking lot repair. Besides protecting the porous concrete from damage, a sealant also prevents the corrosive effects of water and salts. These elements can seep into the sublayers and lead to crumbling and cracking. If you don’t have a concrete sealer in place, a parking lot may need to be repaired as soon as a crack forms.
In addition, poor drainage can result in pools of water and sinkholes. It is advisable to have the area inspected by an expert in paving. They can also tell you if some areas need to be repaved.
How to Repair a Concrete Parking Lot
Aside from being unsightly, potholes can affect the lifespan of a concrete parking lot. Additionally, heavy trucks can cause a loss of support beneath the joint. Another problem is if a building or structure is built on an uneven substrate, which can cause puddles or pools of water.
The cost to perform a concrete repair job will vary depending on the site. Most jobs can be done in one day. However, a larger concrete crack might require a professional concrete contractor. Also, you may need to remove some parking spaces to make room for the work.
If your concrete parking lot is in need of repair, you can start by locating the source of the damage. Sometimes, the damage occurs as a result of seasonal temperature changes. You can also look for cracks that occur on the surface of the concrete. Generally, a small crack on the surface does not indicate a serious structural problem. But when there are numerous cracks on the concrete surface, it is best to have the problem fixed as soon as possible.
During winter, cracks in the concrete can spread quickly. Sealing the cracks before winter is important because the temperatures can drop below freezing. As well, sealing the parking lot early can prevent the need for additional repair.
Concrete cracks can also be a result of foundation settlement or thermal cracking. It is important to have the area inspected by an expert to determine the cause of the crack. Otherwise, it could continue to develop and threaten the structural integrity of the property.
The total costs of repairing a deteriorated parking structure will depend on the size and scope of the project. Engineers will need to evaluate the condition and establish a program for making repairs. Other variables that can affect the total cost include the phasing plan. For example, more phases mean more work and higher expenses.
Typical maintenance and repairs involve applying concrete sealers and repairing cracks. Some parking lots also require traffic toppings, such as stripes and lines.