Parking lot drainage is a crucial element of any commercial or residential property. When the parking lot drainage system in your property is designed and maintained properly, the impact of heavy rainfall on your property will be less.  It ensures that water does not collect on the surface, preventing slippery conditions and other safety hazards.

Despite the importance of parking lot drainage, common issues can occur, leading to significant damage and costly repairs. If you are facing such issues in your commercial property, it is always better to hire a professional for commercial parking lot repair services.

However, knowing what issues can occur can help you avoid the same and make an informed decision. In this article, we will discuss these common issues and provide tips on how to fix them.

Parking Lot Drainage Problem #1: Standing Water

Standing water on a parking lot surface is a common problem that can cause many issues, including safety hazards, damage to the pavement, and even structural damage to the surrounding buildings. There are many reasons for standing water, such as poor grading, lack of proper drainage systems, or blocked drains.

The first step to fixing this issue is to ensure proper grading of the parking lot surface. If the surface slope is insufficient, water will not flow towards the drainage system, resulting in standing water. You can hire commercial parking lot repair services from a qualified paving contractor to assess the grading of your parking lot and make the necessary adjustments.

Another way to deal with the standing water problem is to install an effective drainage system. A drainage system includes various components, such as catch basins, pipes, and grates, that collect and transport water away from the surface. Check the existing drainage system, and repair or replacement is warranted if it is inadequate or damaged.

Parking Lot Drainage Problem #2: Cracks and Potholes

Ageing, weather, heavy traffic, and improper installation lead to cracks and potholes on the parking lot surface. These issues not only affect the appearance of the parking lot but can also cause damage to vehicles and create safety hazards.

To fix this issue, it is important first to assess the severity of the damage. Using a sealant or patching material to fill the gaps may be enough for minor cracks and potholes. However, if the damage is extensive, the entire section of the pavement should be removed and replaced.

Parking Lot Drainage Problem #3: Blocked Drains

Blocked drains can cause standing water and even structural damage to the surrounding buildings when left addressed.

Blocked drains are a common issue for various reasons, such as debris accumulation, poor maintenance, or damage to the drainage system.

To fix this issue, the first step is to locate the blockage. You can hire a professional for a camera inspection of the drainage system to identify the cause of the jam and determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the blockage, they may use various techniques, such as hydro jetting or snaking, to clear the drain.

Choose the Asphalt Paving Services in Maryland from Premier Paving

Premier Paving is a Maryland-based paving contractor that offers a wide range of services to address common parking lot drainage issues. We have been providing high-quality paving services to commercial and residential clients for years and have earned a name for ourselves. We are an ideal choice if you are looking for parking lot asphalt paving in Maryland.

We offer comprehensive paving services, including grading and excavation, drainage system installation and repair, and pavement maintenance and repair. Contact us today for all your parking lot drainage and paving solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you fix standing water in a parking lot?

One of the first steps to fix standing water in a parking lot is to ensure proper surface grading. Incorrect slope on the surface will impede the flow of water towards the drainage system, resulting in the formation of standing water.

Proper drainage system maintenance is also crucial to prevent standing water from occurring in the future. Install additional drainage components or replace damaged ones if a blocked and inadequate drainage system is the cause of water accumulation in the parking lot. You may also need a professional to inspect the drainage system to ensure it works correctly and not blocked.

2. What are the most common parking lot drainage problems?

The most common drainage problems in parking lots include standing water, blocked drains, cracks and potholes, and inadequate drainage systems. Standing water occurs when the surface is not sloped correctly and cannot flow towards the drainage system. Blocked drains happen when debris accumulates in the drainage system, preventing water from flowing away.

Cracks and potholes can develop due to weather, heavy traffic, or improper installation. Inadequate drainage systems can build up water on the surface, creating safety hazards and causing damage to the pavement and surrounding structures.

3. What makes a good drainage system?

A well-designed and maintained drainage system can help prevent costly repairs and ensure a safe and functional parking lot.

A good drainage system effectively collects and transports water away from the surface, preventing standing water and other drainage issues. It should include proper grading of the surface, with a slope that allows water to flow towards the drainage components. There should be enough catch basins, pipes, and grates to collect and transport water away from the surface. You should maintain the system regularly to ensure that it works effectively and promptly address any damage or blockages.

4. Is sand or gravel better for drainage?

Sand and gravel can be effective for drainage, but the choice depends on the property’s specific needs. Sand is typically better for fine drainage needs, such as around the base of a building, where water needs to be absorbed quickly. On the other hand, gravel proves to be better for larger-scale drainage needs, such as around a parking lot or roadway, where water must be swiftly transported to the drainage system. The particles’ size and the material’s depth also affect drainage effectiveness.

A qualified paving contractor like Premier Paving in Maryland assess the property’s needs and recommend the best solutions.

More to read in Premier Paving Blog

How to Maintain Your Asphalt Parking Lot During the Rainy Season

Asphalt Paving Parking Lot Expansion and Rehabilitation Project