When it comes to building parking lots, concrete is the preferred choice for most building owners due to its affordability and durability. While asphalt is also a popular contender, the ease of construction and cost-effectiveness of concrete parking lots have made them a popular choice among contractors.
One of the main reasons why asphalt has been a popular choice for parking lots is its lower initial cost compared to concrete. However, asphalt prices are on the rise, and the difference in cost between the two materials is becoming less significant. Additionally, the maintenance cost of asphalt is higher than concrete, as concrete parking lots require minimal maintenance and have a longer lifespan than asphalt.
Concrete parking lots offer several advantages over asphalt parking lots, including lower maintenance costs. Asphalt parking lots typically require refurbishment every ten years and need to be coated with liquid asphalt every few years, leading to interruptions and higher maintenance costs. In contrast, concrete parking lots require minimal maintenance, saving building owners time and money in the long run.
Concrete parking lots also have a lighter surface than asphalt, reducing the need for excessive light fixtures and energy consumption. The lighter color of concrete also makes it safer for drivers, and it reflects sunlight better than asphalt, keeping the temperature of the lot lower in summer months.
Furthermore, concrete parking lots are stronger and more rigid than asphalt, making them better able to support heavy loads. If your parking lot houses a lot of load-carrying vehicles, investing in a concrete parking lot may be a smart choice. In fact, a 5-inch thick concrete parking lot has the same load-carrying capacity as an 8-inch thick asphalt parking lot.
Concrete parking lots are also customizable, as you can get them stamped and colored to fit your aesthetic preferences. With proper maintenance, your concrete parking lot can last for many years.
To maintain your concrete parking lot, it is important to remove any stains as soon as they appear and keep the surface clean of dust and debris from cars. Applying a concrete sealant can also help prevent stains from being absorbed into the surface. It is important to hire professionals for repairs and maintenance to ensure that your parking lot remains in good condition. Additionally, overloading your concrete parking lot can cause damage, so it is important to ensure that it is not overloaded.
Overall, the low maintenance and numerous advantages of concrete parking lots make them the superior choice over asphalt. Choosing concrete for your parking lot is a no-brainer and can save you time and money in the long run.
We are a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience installing stamped concrete patios, driveways, and walkways across southeast Michigan including Oakland and Macomb counties. Our crews are professional and experienced in installing commercial and residential applications of stamped concrete. If you are searching for a stamped concrete contractor that has plenty of experience installing residential stamped concrete patios, give us a call today! We can be reached at 248-379-0250.