Retail Asphalt Paving Problems: Common Hazards and How to Fix Them

In retail, your asphalt paving does more than provide easy access for shoppers. It directly impacts safety, exposure to liability risks, and even customer perceptions. Keeping it in good condition should be a top priority, which means promptly addressing retail asphalt paving problems. At The Surface Masters, we’re experts in retail asphalt paving, building and maintaining surfaces for property owners and managers throughout Atlanta. We’ve also opened a new location in Florida, serving clients throughout Fort Myers and the surrounding areas.

In this blog, we’ll explore common hazards affecting retail pavement in Atlanta and beyond and explain how we can help you address them.

Is Cracking Among the Most Common Retail Asphalt Paving Problems?

Surface cracks on retail paving are common. However, that doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Cracks are among the first signs of pavement distress, and failing to mend them can lead to a host of problems later.

Asphalt paving companies, like The Surface Masters, can easily repair cracks by filling or sealing them. These techniques help to prevent cracks from spreading while also keeping water out. Experts recommend a crack repair service at least once a year for the best long-term results and protection.

Why Do Potholes Form on Retail Parking Lot Paving?

What happens if you leave cracks unaddressed for too long? Water will seep through those voids, eroding the base layers and weakening structural support. Eventually, that lack of support causes the pavement to fail, resulting in a pothole.

Pothole-riddled asphalt paving for retail can pose significant safety risks, putting shoppers and employees in harm’s way and exposing your business to liability. Asphalt paving repair companies can repair potholes using asphalt patching techniques.

Why Do Retail Asphalt Paving Problems Like Surface Crumbling Develop?

Surface crumbling, also known as raveling, is a byproduct of oxidation in retail asphalt paving. If you don’t invest in ongoing preventative care with regular sealcoating, UV rays from the sun can cause the binders within your asphalt paving to break down. That oxidation turns the material brittle, making it more susceptible to damage.

If not addressed, retail paving in Atlanta will continue to deteriorate. Patching is the most common repair method for raveling, and contractors will recommend ongoing sealcoating to ensure your retail parking lot paving remains well-protected moving forward.

Is It Normal for Retail Pavement in Atlanta to Have Standing Water?

Retail paving should have proper drainage and a subtle slope that effortlessly manages water runoff. If you notice standing water on your retail pavement in Atlanta, you must take action to avoid damage. Asphalt is naturally water-resistant, but it can’t hold onto pooling water. That moisture will break down the material, leading to cracks, potholes, and foundation damage.

There are a few ways that asphalt paving companies can correct drainage issues. Depending on the extent of the problem, they may recommend milling and resurfacing to correct the pavement slope. They may also advise you to make drainage improvements, adding new infrastructure to direct water away from your retail paving.

How Do Asphalt Paving Companies Correct Uneven Surfaces?

Resurfacing can also correct settling or uneven surface finishes. While subtle elevation changes don’t appear to be a big problem, they can damage vehicles and cause trip-and-fall accidents for pedestrians. Asphalt paving for retail should be smooth and accessible throughout.

Milling the surface and applying a new overlay can correct elevation issues, especially around transition points.

Why Is My Retail Paving in Atlanta Discolored and Faded?

Retail parking lot paving needs ongoing protection to stay in good shape. Regular sealcoating is key to preventing damage, avoiding early degradation, and boosting longevity. It can also improve aesthetics.

Without sealcoating, retail paving in Atlanta will oxidize, resulting in noticeable fading and discoloration. Leaking vehicle fluids can exacerbate the problem and stain your pavement. The best way to address discoloration is to apply a high-quality sealer that restores the material’s glossy black finish while providing much-needed protection against weathering and wear.

What Types of Retail Asphalt Paving Problems Affect Striping?

You can’t forget to pay attention to the lines and markings on your retail asphalt paving. Parking lot striping turns bare asphalt into a functional parking lot. Visitors use markings to navigate the property safely, so you must keep them visible at all times.

Parking lot striping fades over time, with most paint formulas losing a quarter of their visibility just 18 to 24 months after application. Hire contractors to refresh lines and markings to keep your asphalt paving for retail safe, efficient, and accessible.

If you encounter any of these issues, contact The Surface Masters for repairs that count. As an award-winning pavement company, we have the expertise to meet your needs in Atlanta and Fort Myers. We specialize in commercial work, helping clients like you protect their investments while maximizing safety.

In addition to repairs, we offer new asphalt paving, milling and reclamation, resurfacing, crack sealing, concrete curbing, pavement markings, and more. Get in touch with The Surface Masters team today to learn more and receive your free quote. We’re standing by to take your call at (770) 670-7857. If you prefer, you can also email Info@TheSurfaceMasters.com or use our online contact form.