How to Prepare Your Franklin Parking Lot for a Major Commercial Paving Project

2024 is a year of upgrades, renovations, and expansion. If you’re a business owner in Franklin, WI, this is the perfect time to plan a commercial paving project that can make your parking lot stand out. But before you can lay down that smooth asphalt surface, there are important steps you need to take to prepare your parking lot for the project. Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your commercial paving project in Franklin is a success.

Before any paving project begins, the first thing to do is assess the condition of your parking lot. This step will help you understand the scope of work required and plan for any additional preparations. Conducting an assessment might seem simple, but it’s crucial to understanding exactly what your lot needs. Here’s how you can do it effectively:

• Inspect the Surface: Check for cracks, potholes, and drainage issues. Even small cracks can become bigger problems if not handled before paving.
• Drainage Considerations: Make sure that water is not pooling in areas of the lot. Pooling water can weaken the asphalt over time and create larger issues after the new paving is installed.
• Professional Help: Consider bringing in a commercial paving professional for a full assessment. They can point out issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Preparing your parking lot starts with understanding its current state, and an early assessment helps avoid surprise costs and setbacks.

It’s 2024, and like everything else, paving costs have seen some fluctuations. Setting a realistic budget is key to avoiding any unpleasant surprises as the project progresses. Consider the following while budgeting:

• Material Costs: Asphalt and concrete prices have been on the rise, and the type of material you use will greatly affect your budget. Asphalt Contractors Inc. manufactures their own asphalt, meaning they can help you get high-quality materials at a competitive rate.
• Labor Costs: The cost of skilled labor has also risen in recent years, so include this in your plan.
• Contingency: Set aside an extra 10-15% for unexpected costs—trust us, it’s better to be prepared.

No commercial paving project can start without clearing the area first. Before the paving crew can arrive, make sure your lot is ready for them to begin work.

• Remove Vehicles: Inform your customers and employees about the upcoming project and arrange for alternative parking options during the paving process.
• Remove Debris: Debris, including dirt, rocks, or any other obstacles, can make it difficult for the crew to work. Ensure your lot is clean and clear.
• Traffic Control: Depending on the location of your business, you may need to hire a traffic control team to direct vehicles and ensure safety during the project.

A clutter-free site ensures the paving team can work efficiently, and it speeds up the overall process, saving you time and money.

Wisconsin weather can be unpredictable, and 2024 is no exception. When it comes to commercial paving in Franklin, choosing the right time of year is important for ensuring the project runs smoothly. Here are some things to consider:

• Seasonal Considerations: Aim for late spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and conducive to paving.
• Check the Forecast: Don’t just rely on the season; check the extended weather forecast before paving day. Asphalt needs time to cure properly, and rain can delay the entire process.

Planning around the weather will help ensure your new parking lot is durable and long-lasting, minimizing the need for future repairs.

If your paving project impacts more than just your property, communication is key. Whether it’s other businesses, employees, or customers, make sure everyone is informed well in advance.

• Customer Notifications: Use social media, email, or even a sign in front of your business to inform customers of alternative parking and any temporary inconvenience.
• Employee Communication: Let your staff know the paving schedule so they can adjust accordingly. This helps keep business operations running smoothly during the paving project.

By keeping everyone in the loop, you can avoid confusion and ensure a smoother process for everyone involved.

Major commercial paving projects require a well-thought-out traffic management plan, particularly if your business will remain open during construction.

• Temporary Signage: Put up clear signage directing people where to go and where not to park.
• Separate Entry and Exit Points: Depending on the layout of your lot, you may need to designate different entry and exit points to ease the flow of traffic.

Effective traffic management can help avoid accidents and ensure that your paving team can work without interruption.

Preparing your Franklin parking lot for a commercial paving project is easier when you have an experienced partner by your side. Asphalt Contractors Inc. has been in the business since 1979, and we understand what it takes to make a paving project go off without a hitch.

We manufacture our own asphalt, which means our clients receive top-quality materials designed to withstand Wisconsin weather. We’re not just about getting the job done; we’re about getting it done right, every time.

In 2024, sustainability and technology are driving the commercial paving industry. If you’re planning a major paving project, consider some of these trends:

• Recycled Asphalt: Using recycled materials is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. Asphalt Contractors Inc. is proud to incorporate recycled asphalt into our projects whenever possible.
• Smart Paving Equipment: Technological advancements in paving machinery mean faster, more efficient projects, which saves both time and costs.
• Porous Asphalt: Consider using porous asphalt for better stormwater management. This is especially beneficial for larger commercial parking lots in Franklin, helping prevent drainage issues and flooding.

A major commercial paving project doesn’t end when the last layer of asphalt is laid. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your new parking lot stays in great shape for years to come.

• Sealcoating: Sealcoating is an important step to protect your asphalt surface from the elements, including harsh Wisconsin winters and the summer sun. It’s recommended to apply sealcoating every 2-3 years.
• Crack Filling: Address any cracks as soon as they appear to prevent them from spreading and causing more serious damage.
• Regular Cleaning: Debris, oil spills, and standing water can all cause damage over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent deterioration and keeps your lot looking its best.

Investing in regular maintenance ensures that your parking lot remains safe, visually appealing, and cost-effective in the long run.

A well-maintained parking lot offers numerous benefits for your business and your customers.

• Positive First Impressions: Your parking lot is one of the first things customers see when they visit your business. A clean, well-paved lot creates a positive first impression.
• Safety: Potholes and cracks can pose safety risks to both vehicles and pedestrians. Maintaining your lot reduces liability and keeps everyone safe.
• Long-Term Cost Savings: Proper maintenance helps prevent major damage, which can be costly to repair. By staying on top of maintenance, you can save money in the long run.

Ready to get started? Preparing your Franklin parking lot for a major commercial paving project may seem like a lot, but with the right planning, budget, and partner, it’s completely manageable. Asphalt Contractors Inc. is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a site visit and get a personalized paving plan. We’ll help make sure your project is smooth—literally and figuratively.