When it comes to parking lots, concrete is the material of choice for most municipalities. The formula used to mix concrete creates a strong, durable and long-lasting surface. Concrete parking lots can last up to 20 to 50 years, but their lifespan mainly depends on maintenance.

If you've noticed that your parking lot is starting to look dingy and faded or is showing cracks or damage, it's time to replace or repair it before it gets worse. In this blog, we will share 7 signs that tell you it's time to call the Trusted concrete contractor in Melbourne to replace or repair your parking lot.

Signs Your Concrete Needs to be Fixed

Water-Pooling

Do you see the water pooling up and down the paved area of your parking lot or sidewalk after it rains? If water is pooling in your parking lot or on your sidewalk, it is a sign that your concrete doesn't allow for natural drainage. It means that the material you are using for your parking lot isn't very porous and is causing standing water. Water pooling can lead to mildew, cracks and other potential problems with the surface of your parking lot.

Formation of Potholes

Potholes can develop over time due to poor drainage or other factors that affect the strength of the concrete surface. If you see the formation of potholes anywhere on your parking lot, it could be a sign that there is damage underneath the surface of your driveway or walkway area. The most common cause of potholes is when water spots seep through the cracks on the surface of your driveway or due to improper mixing of material (too much sand) at the time of construction. It's recommended that you hire a residential concreter in Melbourne to repair your parking lot immediately since potholes can lead to serious accidents and other mishaps.

Cracks All Over

Cracks are a sign that the concrete is drying out and has lost its moisture content. It could be due to many reasons, such as heavy vehicles driving over them, ice and snow melting, or water seeping. If you notice cracks in your parking lot surface, you should repair them immediately since these cracks can attract water, which causes stains and puddles. Cracks can also let air seep into your concrete, causing deterioration of the surface.

To fix cracks in your parking lot surface, use a filler material like epoxy or asphalt. Remember that if you want to repair cracks on a large area of your concrete parking lot surface, consider using multiple coats instead of one coat at a time.

An Uneven Appearance

If you notice that your once impressive parking lot or sidewalk has started to slope, it is a sign that your concrete is in serious need of repair. The appearance of your parking lot can be uneven due to ageing, contamination, harsh chemicals, excessive freeze-thaw cycles, and nature's elements. When this happens, it requires repair by a professional concrete specialist who specialises in driveway construction. An uneven sidewalk will affect the overall look and functionality of your property.

Water Stains on the Surface

Water stains on the surface of your concrete parking lot can be a sign that there's water trapped under the surface, which means that there's damage deep beneath your parking lot. It can damage your driveway and make it susceptible to mould and mildew growth. To avoid water stains, clean off excess moisture with an absorbent material like kitty litter or coffee grounds. You should repair or replace your concrete parking lot if this often happens because it could indicate structural problems and damage to the foundation of your parking lot due to age or poor maintenance.

Signs of Ageing

Though concrete has a lifespan of 20 to 50 years, it still needs repair or replacement at some point. That's why it's important to pay attention to any signs of deterioration and maintenance of your parking lot. If your parking lot or patio has crumbled, lost its colour or started to fade over time, then these are the signs of ageing and time for you to look for replacing it with a newer and better one.

Discolouration

Over time, your new and shiny parking lot can become dull, discoloured and damaged. Sunlight and frequent use will turn your pavement from black to grey; these greying patches are mainly caused by oxidation. Oxidation can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including pollution, poor concrete mix and poor maintenance. In addition, water can also cause the surface to become more roughened, which leads to faster deterioration of concrete parking lots. However, there are several ways through which you can rejuvenate your parking lot to give it a new lease of life by repairing or replacing it.

Wrapping Up

Your parking lot structure greatly impacts the look and function of your building. The best way to ensure that your concrete driveway lasts is to take good care of it. If your parking lot is showing signs of distress, then it's a good idea to address the issue now. Hopefully, this article has provided you with some helpful information that you can use to determine the right course of action for your parking lot. And be sure to contact a commercial concrete contractor in Melbourne if you still have any questions!