What Are the Advantages of Concrete Parking Lots?

The decision of whether to install a concrete or an asphalt parking lot is one that should not be made lightly. Both paving materials have advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to each customer to evaluate the pros and cons of each material. That said, some of the advantages offered by concrete are unique.

1. 1. Since concrete is light in color, it can reflect a surprising amount of heat. In the summer months, the surface temperature of a concrete pavement can be as much as 10 degrees cooler than a comparable asphalt pavement.
2. 2. Concrete requires very little maintenance. Should cracks appear, they should be sealed promptly to help prevent water penetration and the damage that it can inflict.
3. 3. Concrete has exceptional load-bearing properties. If your parking lot will be frequented by heavyweight trucks, concrete may be the better choice.
4. 4. It typically costs less to light a concrete parking lot than a comparable asphalt lot. The same illumination can be obtained with approximately 30% fewer fixtures. This can save you money on your energy costs without impacting your lot’s safety.

How Are Concrete Parking Lots Installed?

A concrete parking lot is an integrated system with three distinct layers. The first layer is the soil underneath the parking lot; this is also known as the subgrade. The second layer is an aggregate base that helps distribute the weights that are placed on the pavement. The third layer is the concrete. Although the steps can vary slightly, they are basically as follows.

1. Collect information about the site. Assess the drainage, evaluate the soil, and assess the surrounding terrain.
2. Collect details about features that the client wants to incorporate, including landscaping islands, light poles, and curbing.
3. Prepare an estimate of the volume of traffic expected and the weights of the vehicles. This helps determine the correct thickness of concrete to install.
4. The subgrade needs to be thoroughly compacted. If this is impossible, it will probably be necessary to remove and replace some of the soil.
5. After proper compaction of the subgrade has been achieved, the aggregate base will be constructed.
6. Forms will be placed to hold the concrete slurry in place while it is setting. If necessary, rebar or reinforcing mesh will be placed inside the forms.
7. The concrete slurry is poured and worked, and the surface will be given the finish requested by the customer.
8. The site is cleaned up, and the forms will be left in place for several days to give the concrete sufficient time to set. After the time has elapsed, the forms will be removed.

Marathon Solutions Group offers commercial concrete and asphalt services to industrial facilities, municipalities, and businesses. We install Houston concrete parking lots, concrete curbs, concrete ramps, concrete sidewalks, concrete ADA features, parking lot signs, thermoplastic markings, bollards, and asphalt paving. We also offer asphalt resurfacing, concrete repairs, asphalt milling, parking lot maintenance, asphalt sealcoating, parking lot striping, pavement repairs, parking lot restriping, and asphalt crack repairs. We have an impeccable reputation for craftsmanship, professionalism, and service. We offer free quotes, so submit your request today by calling 800-879-1147, filling out our online form, or emailing Sales@Marathon-Solutions.com.