Who Cares About Parking Lot Pavement Markings?

Pavement markings and safety signs are visible on almost every road and parking lot in the State of Florida. Why is that?

The most basic form of motorist information is the variety of pavement markings on streets and highways. These stripes, shapes and symbols denote the rules of the road by giving lane boundaries, guides for turning, crosswalk locations, and warnings of potential hazards. Pavement markings work in conjunction with road signs and traffic signals to give motorists a clear picture of the highway's characteristics. Because pavement markings are directly in the driver's view of the road, they offer an effective means of communication.

What do the lines mean?

White and yellow lines are used along pavement edges and between lanes to keep vehicles in line. These lines may be solid or broken (long dashes), single or double which indicate when you can and cannot pass another vehicle. Stop lines, crosswalks and parking spaces are also marked by white lines. Symbols such as arrows are in white also; an exception to this rule being the handicap symbol, which is marked in blue.

Yellow lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions. Single yellow lines may also mark the left edge of the pavement on divided highways and one-way streets. A broken yellow line separates lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.

Curbs are also often marked yellow in no parking zones near fire hydrants or intersections. It is unlawful to park in or drive through areas that have pavement markings indicating fire lanes or safety zones.

The lines in my parking area are faded, does it really matter?

Parking lot striping is required to keep your parking area in compliance with current fire code and ADA specifications. A complaint from a handicapped person or ADA or fire code inspector could mean hundreds of dollars in fines!

Contact ABC Paving and Sealcoating today for a free estimate on all of your paving needs.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida’s leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-921-8719 for a free estimate.

Line Striping is More Than Just Cosmetics

If you think that line striping is just about making your parking lot look good, think again. Yes, it’s true – line striping is the icing on the cake of a freshly sealcoated parking lot, but these pavement markings are important for a number of other reasons.  Let’s take a look at some of them now:

Line Striping Cross Walks

Properly marked cross walks in your parking area alerts pedestrians of the safe and proper places to cross traffic.  It also alerts motorists to slow down so that they can watch for people crossing and to stop until they make it safely to the other side.

Line Striping Parking Stalls

Without properly marked parking stalls, just think what your lot would be like on a busy day!  First of all, if everyone was permitted to park where ever they desired, your lot would quickly become congested as parked vehicles would surely interrupt the traffic flow.  Additionally, your parking area would probably not hold nearly as many parked vehicles either.  Without line striping, motorists tend to leave more space between vehicles and they aren’t very good at lining up in straight rows either!

Another important pavement marking is the designated handicapped spaces. Not only is it your legal obligation to provide a certain number of spaces that meet specific requirements, but the lack of handicapped spaces certainly is not good for those in need.

Line Striping Stop Lines & Signs

A couple of other big safety issues are stop lines and having the word “STOP” spelled out next to that line. Imagine if everyone had the right of way – it would be sheer chaos!  And, not very safe either.

Line Striping Fire Lanes

Talk about safety issues! Without fire lanes in front of office buildings, apartment complexes, shopping centers, and other tenant occupied buildings the fire department, the police or rescue unit might not reach someone in need in a timely manner.  Not only are fire lanes a common sense factor that should be incorporated within your parking lot layout, fire lanes are also part of the Florida Statutes with specific code requirements for their installation and use.

So, as you can see, line striping really is more than just the icing on the cake!  If you’re considering having your parking lot restriped, be sure to contact a professional asphalt company that has years of experience which can be backed by references that will stand by and vouch for its reputation.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida’s leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-921-8719 for a free estimate.

When Should I Sealcoat Asphalt Pavement?

Sealcoating an asphalt pavement parking lot is essential to protecting your investment.

How do can you tell when you should sealcoat asphalt? After new pavement is installed, it’s recommended to wait approximately six months to one year before sealcoating. Having your parking area sealcoated can almost double the life expectancy of the asphalt. Asphalt sealant protects your asphalt against the elements – rain, snow, ice and harmful UV rays.  The sealant also protects your asphalt from oil, gas, antifreeze or any other chemicals that can leak onto the asphalt and eat away at the pavement.

When Should I Have Sealcoating Reapplied?

While there’s no cut and dried answer to when sealcoating should be reapplied, it’s suggested to have sealant reapplied once every three years to maintain the surface quality throughout the lifetime of your parking lot.

If you can’t remember or don’t have records to tell you how long its been since your parking area was sealcoated, there are a few ways you can determine if it’s time to having your paving contractor come out. The first and most noticeable signs of asphalt deterioration are change in color from rich black to grey and cracks in the pavement, which widen over time. When you start noticing these changes, it’s time to sealcoat.  The damage will continue if preventative and treatment measures are not taking.  If in doubt, contact your local paving contractor, he can assess your parking lot and make recommendations for treatment and future care.

Why Should I Sealcoat Asphalt Pavement?

There are several reasons why you should have your asphalt pavement sealcoated.  First, to make your parking lot look better and last longer – sealcoating just may be the answer. Sealcoating, as we mentioned before, stops weather damage by preventing the damaging effects of water penetration. It also prevents the sun’s ultraviolet rays from hardening and drying out the asphalt pavement surface. This damaging effect is called oxidation. Another reason you should have your parking lots asphalt sealcoated is that it resists the highly damaging effects of gas and oil seepage and all other road chemicals. And finally, asphalt sealcoating also restores the pavement to the original black color, which greatly enhances the overall appearance of a property. 

Worried About Down Time?

If you’re worried about the effect of having a paving contractor shut down your parking lot for an extended period of time, have no fear. A professional paving work crew is highly experienced in offering a quick job turn-around to minimize interruption of your business. They will devise a plan that will get the job done right, in a minimal amount of time and have little impact on the parking access for your customers, visitors, and other building occupants.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida’s leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-921-8719 for a free estimate.

Spring is the Time for Pothole Repairs!

A large percentage of U.S. paved roads, parking lots and driveways are paved with asphalt. Extending the life of asphalt surfaces can save money and time for local government and the businesses that are responsible for their upkeep.  Spring time is an ideal time to take care of the standard maintenance task of pothole repairs and sealcoating asphalt in order to protect this investment from the elements.

Why Are Pothole Repairs Important?

There are several reasons pothole repairs are important:

1) They prevent the asphalt from further weakening and unraveling due to the penetration of water into the underlying layers of the pavement structure.

2) Filling a pothole or making a pothole repair is less costly than total asphalt replacement.

3) A properly filled pothole can add years to the life of a pavement surface.

When Should a Pothole be Repaired?

Asphalt repairs should be made as soon as they are spotted.  Not filling a pothole can lead to damage to vehicles, trips and falls and more costly replacement issues.

How Does a Pothole Form?

Cracks in the asphalt allow water to penetrate into the base and subgrade which results in pavement breaking apart and forming potholes. One of the best preventative methods you can take against potholes is proper sealcoating.  Sealcoating can prevent moisture from reaching the subsurface and causing potholes

How is the Area Prepped for Pothole Repairs?

Before an asphalt repair can be made, the area needs to be cleaned of any dirt, vegetation or other foreign materials. Depending on the dimensions of a pothole, your paving contractor will normally cut out the asphalt that is at least a foot away from the existing pothole and clean out approximately six inches down from the surface, reaching the subsoil.  After adding a new base of compacted aggregate, the hot asphalt can then be compacted on top of the new base.

Why Should You Hire an Experienced Paving Contractor?

Do-it-yourself pothole repairs can mean a bumpy ride through your facility.  Plus, pothole failures can be attributed to improper preparation of the area, use of the wrong materials, poor workmanship and improper application of the filling materials. When a pothole repair is not made properly, water can be allowed into the pavement and the potholes can open up again. Hiring a paving company with decades of experience and a reputation for providing the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services can help avoid the headache of pothole repairs.

  

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

A Guide to Protecting Your Asphalt Investment

When visiting a place of business, no one wants to swerve around potholes, step through puddles and trip over liter or guess where to park because your parking lot lines have faded away.  Obstacles like these between your customers and your business mean one thing – less income for your business.  Actually, they mean two things, less income and more expenses on potentially large repairs or even replacement of your asphalt pavement.

Asphalt pavement is a tough surface. It has to be with the tonnage that passes over it daily. But the natural environment and human factors continually test the endurance of your pavement.

Water tries to find cracks to seep into the sub-structure, vegetation continues to try to poke through to reach sunlight, and humans drop trash that clogs drains causing standing water.  Left on its own, your parking lot doesn’t stand a chance.  All that money spent to pave your lot and make the entrance to your building presentable is going down the drain, literally.

So, we all agree. Paving maintenance for your parking lot is important.  But, with everything else going on with your facility, what should you be on the lookout for?  We’re glad you asked!

Here’s a list of things you should regularly inspect!

Got Pot Holes?
Potholes are created when moisture seeps into the pavement, as temperatures change the water expands and then contracts. This weakens the pavement. Traffic loosens it even more, and it eventually crumbles and pops out.  A hazard to drivers and pedestrians alike, pot holes should be repaired by an experienced paving company.

Got Cracks? 
Cracks left unsealed in asphalt pavement allow water to penetrate the surface. This in turn weakens the pavement structure and leads to failures in both the pavement and the base beneath it. Once this occurs only extensive and costly repairs can fix the problem.

Faded Lines? 
Line striping design and pavement marking layouts of parking lots ensure effective traffic flow and compliance with ADA regulations. Proper layout directs traffic safely and efficiently.

Got Trash?
Keep trash receptacles in convenient places and empty them on a regular basis. Doing so will keep overflowing liter from blocking floor drains, attracting pests and causing pedestrian hazards on walkways and in stairwells. Also, sweeping your parking lots on a weekly basis will keep your parking lot free from excessive dirt and debris too.

Got Grease and Dirt?
Hydro-cleaning your parking area at least twice a year will reduce the amount of oil, dirt, grease, dust and other chemicals that can build up in parking spaces. Not only a slip hazard for pedestrians, these foreign materials cause your asphalt to deteriorate more quickly.

Got Weeds?
Vegetation growing through your asphalt pavement is a bad sign.  If you begin seeing asphalt cracks in your parking lots surface with weeds growing through, it deserves 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.

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 to prevent cracks and vegetation growth.  After the initial sealcoating, a good rule of thumb to reapply another coat of asphalt sealer is two years.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating
With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and pavement marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Commercial Building Maintenance 101

Whether you manager a manufacturing warehouse, retail establishment, hotel, place of worship, or an office building, having a facilities maintenance company to manage all of your commercial building maintenance is key to making your life easier!

Peeling paint and graffiti-laced exteriors, mechanical and electrical issues, dirty floors and windows and unsanitary restrooms appeal to no one - not your tenants, not their customers, no one. Maintaining the exterior and interior of a facility is important to sustaining customer satisfaction, keeping high safety standards and retaining the value of your asset.

Take a look around your facility. Sure, you may see these four walls every day, but what are your tenants seeing? What safety issues are you not seeing? Are there any little maintenance tasks that can be taken care of now to prevent them from turning into big and costly issues?

Go ahead – take these checklists and take a quick walk around your facility.

Exterior Building Maintenance Checklist 
Do you have any of these issues that need to be addressed?
 Peeling, bubbling, or chipping paint on walls, doors, etc.?
 Graffiti?
 Cracks in the walls?
 Mold, fungus, or mildew on the building?
 Stains (indicating leaks)?
 Rust or deterioration on metal?
 Wood Rot?
 Broken or burned out light fixtures?
 Exposed wiring?
 Security cameras/gates not working?
 Cracked or broken sidewalks or curbs?
 Potholes in the parking lot?
 Dirty parking lot?
 Missing handicap signs or other safety signs or pavement markings missing?
 Leaking air conditioner unit(s)?
 Presence of pests, wasps, ants, etc.
 Broken locks?
 Broken glass or broken windows?
 Weather-stripping damaged or missing?
 Exterior water facets leaking?
 Ash/waste cans unsecured or need to be emptied?
 Missing hardware, latches, or panels on fences?
 Bulk items left in dumpster area?

You may need: pressure washing, re-painting, commercial building maintenance, minor soffit/fascia repairs, electrical repairs, mechanical repairs, asphalt repairs, and parking lot sweeping services.

Interior Building Maintenance Checklist 
Do any of these conditions exist?
 Dirty floors or carpets?
 Cracked or missing floor tiles?
 Baseboards dirty or banged up?
 Tripping hazards?
 Peeling, bubbling, or chipping paint on walls, doors, etc.?
 Holes, cracks or other damage to the walls?
 Damaged or missing ceiling tiles?
 Sprinklers dirty?
 Sprinklers not working or not tested/inspected?
 Mold, fungus, or mildew in the building?
 Plumbing issues – leaks, running toilets, dripping faucets, signs of stains or rot?
 Air conditioning issues – not cooling, dirty duct vents, dirty filters, not working properly?
 Wood Rot?
 Broken or burned out light fixtures?
  Receptacle/Switch covers missing or broken?
 Overloaded outlets?
 Broken outlets?
 Circuit breakers tripping frequently?
 Breaker box labels not in place? Cover not closed?
 Fire extinguishers missing? Charged? Tagged? Unobstructed?
 Fire exits marked and not blocked?
 Kitchen dirty - stove, exhaust fan, refrigerator, etc.
  Chemicals not labelled properly?
 Walkways not clear? Slip or trip hazards?
 Dirty bathrooms? Or is there trash accumulated?

You may need: commercial painting, interior maintenance, mechanical and electrical repairs, bulk debris removal, janitorial services, and porter services.

So, how’d you do? Were you pleasantly surprised, or horribly shocked? If the latter is true, have no fear, American Facility Services is here to help. AFS provides both interior and exterior commercial building services throughout the state of Florida.

How can we help you?

About American Facility Services
 Since 1993, American Facility Services (AFS) has built a solid reputation based on safety, quality and customer service. With offices in Orlando, Jacksonville and Tampa, AFS’ portfolio of commercial facility services enable our clients the convenience of working with a single provider for all their commercial property needs. Contact AFS today at 866-793-3735 or visit our website at http://www.afsflorida.com for an online proposal.

Asphalt Paving Scams

Thinking about sealcoating your parking lot? Need potholes repaired? Or maybe it’s time for a total parking lot replacement? Whatever the case, if your parking area looks like it’s in need of repair, you could be the target of an asphalt paving scam.

Unfortunately, every industry has unscrupulous individuals and the paving industry isn’t immune. These dishonest people come to your place of business claiming to represent a professional asphalt paving company or even present themselves as an out of work contractor. They often provide a cheap quote, but what usually happens is that they either do a poor job or take a partial payment and disappear. While we’ve all probably hear of these scenarios playing out with elderly homeowners, believe it or not, they occur in the business world too. Don’t be a victim!

How to Spot a Fake
If a contractor offers you a great price on a paving job, but requires full payment upfront or you feel like you’re pressured into making a commitment -- it’s time to walk away. Often con-artists will use high pressure sales techniques making business owners feel the need to act right now to get a special one-time offer. They’ll need the cash upfront to seal the deal, and that’s how you end up cash poor with no asphalt work being done!

A legitimate paving contractor will be in no hurry to take your money. They will provide a detailed estimate and will make sure you are satisfied with the paving work when the job is completed. Just remember; never allow work to commence on your property without having a fully signed contract in hand. And, if you don’t feel comfortable with the price, the sales rep, or any part of the “deal”, it’s probably not a deal after all.

Get to Know Your Asphalt Company
How do most companies find a great asphalt contractor? They do some research on potential contractors and ask any company they are thinking about going with for references. If the company has been around for more than a decade, they must be doing something right. If they have a long list of verifiable references, you’re pretty well assured to get a professional job done well. Another thing to look for if they are will to come out and give a free estimate. Not only will a good paving contractor will provide you with a free detailed estimate, he’ll attend job walks, deliver presentations and ensure all your project needs are met.

What You Need to Know About Bids
When reviewing bids, be sure to pay close attention to the entire proposal; including the letterhead that it’s composed. Be sure that everything you expect from your paving project is included in the scope. Make sure you understand everything that is taking place. Be sure you understand how the job will be scheduled, how thick the pavement will be, how much rock will be installed and the dimensions or square footage.

Follow these tips and you’ll be able to avoid an asphalt paving scam and get your paving work done professionally too!

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Parking Lot Safety

If the parking lot safety of your facility isn’t on your radar yet, it should be moved to the top of your list to prevent accidents and to protect both pedestrians and occupants of vehicles that visit your facility.
 Depending on how much foot traffic and vehicle traffic that your facility has, certain measures should be taken to protect the security, safety and property of your tenants, their visitors and yourself. The formula is simple, the more visitors, the more traffic, the higher the risk of injury.

If you don’t already have a set parking lot safety policy, each facility should develop a set of guidelines or rules and regulations to prevent crime and accidents on their property. Some facilities take care of this process by posting safety signs throughout their parking area, using asphalt pavement markings, and parking lot line striping.

If crosswalks are not properly marked or safety signs, like “No Parking” and “Fire Lane” indicators, it can be a recipe for disaster.

Taking safety measures into account helps reduce the risk of personal or property injury at your commercial facility. Everyday pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists navigate through your parking lot. Having proper pavement markings and safety signage to direct traffic, impose speed and parking regulations, and mark areas for pedestrian crossing is a must.

Parking Lot Safety Help
Contact your facilities maintenance company for a free, no obligation parking lot assessment. A representative from the company can come out to review the current conditions of your parking area. He or she can determine if your asphalt is in good repair, if your parking lot layout meets ADA requirements, and if there are any obvious safety concerns with traffic patterns or obstacles.

Safety Tips
In general, there are some standard parking lot safety tips everyone should take into consideration:
• Never leave personal belongings unattended
• Keep your valuables out of sight and reach.
• In order for people not to know where your valuables are, secure them before coming into a parking area or parking garage
• Report any suspicious activity to the security or building manager.
• Lock your car and keep your keys in a safe place.
• Report lost or stolen properties immediately. The faster you report, the better the chances to recover them. • Stay alert and tuned into your surroundings. Be aware who is around and prepared to react accordingly.
 • If you are a victim of a crime, please report it immediately to the security office and/or the police.
• Drive slowly and follow the rules and directions of the parking signs and any traffic personnel.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating
With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate

Putting the Finishing Touches on Your Parking Lot

After sealcoating a parking area or paving your lot, you know you’ll need to have new parking lines striped and other pavement markings made for things like handicapped spaces and crosswalks.  But, what some people overlook when freshening up the appearance of their parking area are their parking lot signs. 

Parking lot signs are important to the organization, safety and security of your parking lot.  From directional signs to pedestrian crossing signs there are hundreds of different types of parking lot signs to choose from. 

ABC Paving and Sealcoating can not only handle all of your asphalt paving needs, but we also are experts in line striping design and pavement marking layouts.  We also install high quality traffic signs and safety devices.

What type of parking lot signs do you need?

Directional Parking Signs – This type of sign helps drivers find entrances, exits, specific buildings, parking areas, and more.   These signs help clearly and professionally indicate where parking is available or point the direction to an exit with an arrow and the word exit clearly marked.

Fire Lane Signs – To ensure that fire trucks and ambulances have access to your building and parking area as quickly as possible, fire lane signs clearly designate fire lanes and no parking areas.

Pick Up and Drop Off Signs – Posting pick up and drop off signs or loading zone signs on your property will indicate to drivers where the proper zones are in your parking lot.  These signs can be beneficial to your customers who may have purchased a large item.  They can pull their vehicle directly into the designated loading area.  For visitors dropping off children or elderly people, a parking lot sign that designates a drop off area can be beneficial to a driver so that they will know where it is safe to stop and left their passengers out.

Parking Lot Property Signs - If you’re looking to enforce safety and security policies in parking lots to deter unwanted activities, consider getting a few parking lot signs to display your properties notices, regulations or restrictions.  You’ve seen them at other facilities, the wording may vary but will read something to this effect:  NOTICE, We are not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles or contents, park at your own risk.  Or, another option would be one that read: Private Property, NO loitering, soliciting, skateboards, rollerblades.

Pedestrian Crossing Signs – To clearly mark crosswalk areas, crosswalk signs get the attention of drivers and pedestrians and offer crossing directions.  Some signs may read:  State Law, Stop for Pedestrians within Crosswalk. 

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs, site preparation and signs and safety devices.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Asphalt Pavement Checklist for Facilities Maintenance

Most property managers have facilities maintenance checklists for the interior and exterior of their buildings including the landscaping and parking lots.  On a regular basis, the items on these checklists are reviewed; repairs are noted and performed to keep the property in pristine condition.  In this article we’ll focus on the items on those checklists that refer to the upkeep of a facilities parking lot.

Asphalt Pavement Checklist

1)    Asphalt Sealing

Why should I sealcoat my asphalt?

Sealcoating asphalt pavement protects the surface of a parking lot from oxidation and damage from oil, gas and salt.  It also minimizes the need for asphalt repairs by weatherizing the surface which helps prevent water from being able to seep into cracks.  If not properly sealed, pavement starts to unravel and potholes form.

After installation, asphalt should be sealed between six months and a year and then approximately every two years after depending on weather conditions, traffic patterns, and wear and tear.

2)    Crack Filling

What should be done about cracks in your asphalt?

Each year, your parking lot should be inspected for asphalt cracks.  Sealing cracks in asphalt prevents moisture from degrading the structural components of the surface.  For asphalt cracks that are smaller than a quarter of an inch wide, sealcoat can be used.  However, cracks that exceed these dimensions will require your paving contractor to apply a crack sealer. 

To perform this necessary maintenance, the crack should be cleaned of all debris, including loose asphalt, vegetation and other foreign objects.  Once the crack sealer is applied and has set, the pavement should be properly sealcoated for ultimate protection.

3)    Pothole Repair

Why do potholes form?

Potholes occur when water permeates asphalt pavement through a crack in the surface.  Combined with wear and tear, the soil beneath the crack will soften, and eventually create a depression.  Over time, the asphalt will unravel and breakdown into its sub-particles – gravel, sand and stones. 

In northern states, asphalt patches applied in winter months typically do not hold up as well as potholes repairs that were made during warmer months.  Due to the mild temperatures in Florida, pothole repairs can be completed almost year round.

4)    Asphalt Pavement Replacement

When should I replace asphalt pavement?

Often it’s difficult for someone without years of asphalt pavement experience to determine just by looking at a parking lot whether it can be repaired or, due to cost of repairs, it is a better financial decision to replace it entirely.  That’s where the professionals come into play. 

Over time, even a parking lot that has been well-maintained over the years will eventually deteriorate and need replacement.  Asphalt experts will analyze the entire paved area for the current conditions.  A few other factors that need consideration are drainage, traffic load and any issues caused by landscape – such as a large tree with roots wreaking havoc under a pavements surface.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor.  ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including:  asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation.  We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner.  For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Thermoplastic Line Marking

Thermoplastic line markings are one of the most common types of applications used to mark travel lanes in parking lots and roadways.

 Line striping and pavement markings applied using thermoplastic create a wear and crack-resistant road signage. Even with asphalt pavement that experiences high traffic volumes, thermoplastic line markings are very durable. Additionally, the highly reflective quality of thermoplastic line markings makes for an excellent choice for road marking especially for nighttime visibility.  

What is Thermoplastic?
Thermoplastic is a road surface coating that consists of binders such as waxes, resins, anti-settling agents and plasticizers. The mixture also includes glass beads, pigments and filler material such as calcined flint, calcium carbonate, or silica.

Thermoplastic markings are applied using a specially designed vehicle at temperatures ranging from 180 to 200 degrees. Immediately following the application of the thermoplastic to the roads surface, additional glass beads are embedded into the hot material before the plastic hardens. These beads, aided by the pigment, provide the thermoplastic with its reflective qualities. As the marking wears during regular traffic use, beads are lost; however, the beads mixed within the binder are then uncovered providing long-term reflectivity.  

Discover the Benefits of Thermoplastic Line Marking
Thermoplastic line markings have many benefits:

Safety Considerations – Traffic and pedestrian safety is at the top of the list of factors to use thermoplastic line markings. Adding a level of safety, especially at night and in wet conditions, the glass beads offer reflectivity for night time visibility as well as skid and slip resistance for pedestrian safety.

 Image Quality – There are few, if any, problems with chip marks, cracking or impact shattering of the image or line.  

Durable – The thermoplastic mixture is applied a temperature of about 180 to 200 degrees. When applied, the formula physically melts in the top layers of the asphalt’s surface forming a strong and long lasting thermal bond. Additionally, grease and oil do not have any effect on the line markings.  

Reflective – Thermoplastic line marking offers a highly reflective performance. When glass beads are combined with yellow or white pigment, the most common colors for thermoplastic line markings, the line markings are highly reflective.  

Environmentally Friendly – Thermoplastic has been used since the late 1950s. The mixture lacks VOC (volatile organic compound) solvents and has been deemed safe for the environment.  

Quick Application – Thermoplastic can be quickly and accurately applied to a variety of surface choices.

Whether you’re looking to mark parking lot spaces, designate special purposes spaces for disabled parking spots, loading and unloading zones, or time-restricted parking areas, thermoplastic line markings are an ideal choice.  

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

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 and 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.  

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

What Does Your Parking Lot Say About Your Business?

When was the last time you looked at your parking lot? Really looked at it – from a customer, visitor, or residents’ perspective?

Ask yourself these few questions: Is your parking lot making a good first impression? Is it causing long term tenants to not renew their lease or customers to drive on by? Does it cause a safety hazard to cars and foot traffic?

For many businesses, the parking lot often is not on many facility managers or property owners’ radar – until it becomes a problem. If your customers or tenants start complaining, or worse, not coming back to your facility because of the poor repair of your parking lot, you have a big problem.

So, how do you keep up with the maintenance and asphalt repairs for your parking lot to keep the visitors to your business happy? First, find a paving contractor that offers a preventative maintenance plan. Second, be sure your asphalt repairs, sealcoating and other parking lot maintenance is performed by a licensed contractor. And last, but certainly not least, be sure your paving company and its employees are ones that you can trust to offer fair pricing and effective solutions.

Determining Your Needs
Here’s a quick list of some of the things you and your paving contractor should be on the lookout for in your parking lot:

Pot Holes – Does driving through your parking lot feel like you’re on a bumpy dirt road? Pot holes cause tremendous wear and tear on vehicles and are a safety hazard to pedestrians. They are also a sign that water is seeping beneath the asphalt pavement through cracks that have been caused by wear and tear of traffic. Pothole repairs can be easily fixed by simply cleaning out the loose debris and filling them with an asphalt patch. However, crack filing and proper sealcoating can help prevent the need for pothole repairs, or worse yet -- the need for a complete asphalt pavement replacement.

Drainage Issues – Does water sit on your parking lot after a rain storm? Do you often have to strategically jump across huge puddles just to reach the sidewalk or get in and out of your car? Your paving contractor can evaluate any drainage issues and correct these drainage problems. There are many reasons for drainage issues. Sometimes vehicle traffic that is heavier than the pavement was designed can cause pavement depressions and in turn, standing water. Your paving contractor can make this type of repair by correcting the grade through localized leveling. For other drainage problems he’ll offer other solutions to correct the drainage issues.

Faded Traffic Markings – Are your parking lot lines visible? Can pedestrians and motorists clearly see crosswalks and other traffic markings like stop lines? Line striping designs and pavement markings ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. Proper layout is also required to keep parking lots in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations. To best maximize the number of parking spaces, your paving contractor can design and install an acceptable traffic flow and line striping layout to meet your business needs and be in compliance.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Replacing or Repairing Concrete Sidewalks

We’ve all done it. Hurrying in to an important meeting, or walking into a restaurant for dinner, it happens. You trip. Hopefully you only stumble a bit, feel foolish and then continue on with your day. Sometimes, it doesn’t work out that way and you have injured more than your pride.

As a property manager or owner, the thought of a customer, tenant or visitor to your business getting hurt on your property probably makes you cringe a bit. And, it’s most likely not just out of sympathy thinking of your fellow man suffering an injury, but also out of fear of a possible lawsuit.

Keeping your concrete sidewalks and concrete curbs in good repair is a must for facility managers. Not only does it prevent these types of mishaps, but also it does wonders for the curb appeal of your building.

Access Your Property 
Take a stroll around your facility right now to access the state of your sidewalks and curbs. Are they uneven, raised, cracked, or broken? If so, here’s what a paving contractor can do to fix those issues:

Cracked or Uneven Concrete Sidewalks
Most people probably think an uneven sidewalk is a huge concrete sidewalk repair project, but it’s not really that bad. Depending on the type of concrete sidewalk repair needed, complete replacement may be needed or a simple repair can be done.

Replacing Concrete
For a complete replacement, your paving contractor will use a masonry drill to break up the section of concrete sidewalk slab that is broken, sunken, raised, or uneven. He’ll remove the crumbled concrete bits and then work to level the area.

 A nearby tree may be the cause for the uneven concrete. Whatever the cause, after these issues are resolved, the paving company will most likely use a form to hold the new concrete into the desired shape of the new slab and then pump concrete into the area.

As a final touch, the still wet concrete section will be leveled with a trowel to ensure the connecting sections are flush. Once dry, the form will be removed and the sidewalk will be open again for foot traffic.

Repairing Concrete
If the concrete damage isn’t excessive, a concrete repair can be made using a process called “mudjacking”. To level a slab of concrete using this process, the paving contractor will bore holes into the slab and then pump a grout mixture into the holes to force the slab rise and level. This process can not only be completed in one day, but regular use of the concrete sidewalk can resume immediately after leveling with no drying time needed. Another benefit of this type of concrete sidewalk repair is that it can be done for a fraction of the cost of tearing out and replacing.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating 

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Asphalt Paving Problems & Solutions

Protecting your asphalt investment from deterioration is the key to keeping an attractive looking parking lot or driveway. Sealcoating new asphalt within one year of installation is the best and most cost efficient way to avoid expensive repairs due to pavement failures. However, let’s take a look at some common asphalt problems and their solutions:  

Oxidation and Graying Over time, traffic, water, gas, oil, the suns unrelenting rays, especially in Florida, will wreak havoc on asphalt pavement. The older the pavement gets, the more exposure to elements, the more the asphalt pavement will fade and takes on a gray appearance. This graying is a sign that the asphalt is oxidizing and drying out. The drier it gets the more brittle it will become and the more prone to cracking. It’s a downward spiral at this point if nothing is done to stop the water from penetrating the asphalt cracks. It is critical that asphalt repairs are made as part of an ongoing asphalt pavement maintenance plan to avoid further decay.  

Raveling Another asphalt paving maintenance issue to be aware of is raveling. When the binder, which acts as a glue, that is used to hold the stone and sand particles that make up the asphalt starts deteriorating, this is called raveling. Pieces of aggregate will loosen and breakaway from the pavement surface making it thinner and thinner as it deteriorates.

The surface of the asphalt pavement will appear rough as pieces of the asphalt away and separate. This can create a void for water to penetrate into the base material.  

Linear Asphalt Cracks Transverse and longitudinal cracks are fairly common in asphalt pavement as it ages. Starting small, they will expand over time. Again, any crack in asphalt is an opportunity for water to penetrate. Pavement expansion due to hot and cold temperatures will continue to cause the cracks to expand.

Cleaning out any dirt or debris from such cracks, asphalt repairs can be made to stop water from seeping below the pavement and help stop the crack from growing.

Sealcoating the pavement early on helps lock-in the binder and prevents from cracks from occurring.

Vegetation Growth If cracks, gaps or joints in asphalt are left unfilled, grass, weeds and other plants – even trees have been known to grow right through a parking lots surface. Not only does this make for an un-kept looking parking area, but the roots of the vegetation can cause severe damage to the base of the asphalt. Additionally, as the plant grows, the roots and the visible vegetation will widen the gaps letting more water penetrate the surface eroding the base materials. A simple asphalt crack repair before vegetation has a chance to take root can save property managers thousands of dollars in repairs or replacement.  

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

New Asphalt and Asphalt Repairs

Asphalt and paving contractors’ primary methods of protecting any asphalt pavement surfaces are sealcoating, asphalt repairs and crack sealing. The keys to quality sealcoating, asphalt pavement repair and crack sealing are preparation and using superior products in the application.

New Asphalt 
When asphalt pavement is new, it has a deep, black color, appears oily and is tightly compact. Property managers looking to protect their investment from deterioration should consider sealcoating as soon as possible to keep their parking lot or driveway in good repair.

Sealcoating 
Sealcoating new asphalt pavement within one year after installation is critical to increase the longevity of the surface. It is the best and most cost efficient way to avoid expensive repairs due to pavement failures.

Sealcoating Stops Weather Damage - Asphalt sealcoating prevents the damaging effects of oxidation and water penetration.

Sealcoating Prevents Oxidation - The sun's ultraviolet rays harden and dry out the asphalt pavement surface.

Sealcoating Beautifies Pavement - Asphalt sealcoating restores original black color to asphalt and greatly enhances the overall appearance of property.

Sealcoating Resists Gas, Oil, and Salt - Ashpalt sealcoating resists the highly damaging effects of gas and oil seepage and all other road chemicals including alkalis and winter salt.

Asphalt Crack Sealing
If left untreated, small asphalt cracks will expand as the water penetrates the sub-base of the material and it softens. This condition of advanced asphalt cracking is called alligator cracking or spider web cracking because the pavement will resemble either the hide of an alligator or a web of a spider.

Even at this stage of advanced cracking, sometimes the pavement can still be repaired in a fairly inexpensive manner -- in some cases. An asphalt crack sealer can be used to hold the pavement surface together. However, unless the pavement is only showing only small areas of linear cracking, the best long-term solution is to cut out the cracked section of pavement and patch the problem area with new asphalt.

Preventative Maintenance 
When asphalt is new, it’s best to lock-in the asphalt binders with seal coat. Doing so will keep the asphalt flexible and able to handle temperature changes and resist cracking. Taking care of sealcoating early on is one of the best preventative maintenance tasks.

Another thing to remember to get the maximum lifespan from an asphalt pavement project is to address minor issues through an asphalt preventative maintenance plan before the damage has become more severe and more costly. The life of the asphalt surface all boils down to keeping water and petroleum products out and keeping the binder in.

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.

Sealcoating 101

Sealcoating is an important part of not only protecting your asphalt from deterioration, but also keeping your parking lot attractive. Many property managers are familiar with the need to sealcoat their asphalt paving, but have specific questions about the details. Often, their questions are very similar, so we thought it best to compile a list of these frequently asked questions to better help you understand the basics of sealcoating.

My asphalt has surface cracks that keep coming back. What do I do about them?
Before sealcoating it is important to seal any existing cracks. If left a crack is not filled, it will allow water in that can cause damage to the asphalt pavement. If the water penetrates the pores of the surface, or worse, under the asphalt into the base, expensive asphalt repairs will be needed to repair the damage. Even after an asphalt parking lot is sealcoated, if the cracks have not been filled first, this damage can occur.

An important thing to note, if asphalt cracks are filled properly the first time, the crack sealing will last the life of the sealcoating. You should not see cracks coming back!

Should we have our asphalt parking lot sealcoated every year?
No. While many sealcoating companies will try to get you to seal your asphalt annually, this is just to pad their pockets! Sealcoating asphalt too much can lead to many problems. Most property managers don’t realize that the first two coats of sealer applied are what actually protect the asphalt.Most of the sealcoating after those initial applications are usually for cosmetic purposes only.

Can we sealcoat our parking lot in hot weather?
Yes, but it must be done using the proper techniques. As you know, asphalt can get very hot, especially in Florida during the summer. Applying sealer when the temperatures are above 90 degrees can cause the sealer to dry too quickly. If this happens it can peel, flake, or get a streaky finish. In order to apply sealcoat in temperatures above 90 degrees, the proper technique is to spray the surface with a light mist of water first. This has a cooling effect on the asphalt. Once the surface temperature has been lowered, the sealer can safely be applied.

A well-paved asphalt paving project can last twenty to forty years if properly maintained. Hiring a reputable paving contractor can save you money in the long run. Not only will you have a parking lot that looks great, the workmanship should last for decades!

About ABC Paving and Sealcoating

With more than 20 years of experience, ABC Paving and Sealcoating is Florida's leading paving contractor. ABC Paving and Sealcoating provides commercial organizations with the highest level of customer service, professional workmanship and services including: asphalt paving, asphalt repairs and prevention, pothole repairs, sealcoating, line striping and marking, thermoplastic, crack filing, signs and safety devices, concrete sidewalks, concrete curbs and site preparation. We use our experience and the latest equipment available to get the job done right the first time in a timely, cost effective manner. For more information about ABC Paving and Sealcoating, visit our website at http://pavingandsealcoating.com or call 866-934-7623 for a free estimate.