If you own or you’re responsible for commercial paving lot, you appreciate the importance of understanding the parking lot markings on asphalt paving. After all, it’s your job to ensure the safety of everyone who uses the parking lot.
However, for those who have doubts, Laurel Asphalt has compiled a list of reasons to understand parking lot markings.
Keep scrolling to learn more!
No. 1: The Meanings
There are various paint colors used for parking lot markings. The three most common colors are white, yellow, and blue. Red and decorative markings are also used occasionally.
- White and Yellow Parking Lines: The lines for parking spaces are usually white or yellow. Pending curb appeal, local requirements, and sometimes the owner’s preference will dictate the color used for the parking lines. Yellow does provide a slight advantage in the northern climates when the parking lots are partially covered with snow in the winter season.
- White and Yellow Markings: These two colors provide other distinguished uses in a parking lot. Yellow indicates areas where drivers need to use extra caution. These areas can be entrances, exits, speed bumps, curbs designated for no parking, and double yellow lines heavily traveled traffic lanes. White is more commonly used for arrows, crosswalks, and stop bars.
- Blue: Representing handicap parking, line stripers use this color to indicate reserved areas for vehicles with disabilities.
- Red: This color is occasionally used for areas for curbs or diagonal lines to indicate fire lane areas. Yellow is sometimes used in fire lane areas also.
- Decorative Crosswalks: Decorative markings are used many times to highlight the crosswalks to make these walkways more visible for the motorists and pedestrians to provide added alertness for safety. The decorative markings can also provide added curb appeal.
As you can see, parking lot markings help create a safe and organized space for vehicles to park and drive and maintain added safety for pedestrians.
No. 2: Faded Lines
A commercial property owner should understand that faint lines on the asphalt paving are a safety hazard. When the lines are no longer visible, it becomes difficult for drivers to know where to park and where not. This can lead to accidents and damage to property.
As a result, your commercial paving lot will be vulnerable to lawsuits and reputation damage, especially if a person with a disability is involved in an accident. You can avoid this by ensuring that the parking lot markings are always visible.
No. 3: Better Experience
Understanding parking lot markings can also help you provide a better customer experience. For instance, if you have a loading zone, you can make it clear where it begins and ends with the correct markings. This will ensure delivery trucks can park in the designated area without blocking traffic.
You can also use parking lot markings to create more space for handicapped parking or electric vehicle charging stations. By doing this, you can make your business more appealing.
No. 4: Safer Environment
Other components besides stripes and markings on your asphalt pavement can make your parking lot safer. For example, speed bumps can help control traffic and prevent accidents. Speed bumps are usually placed near crosswalks or pedestrian walkways to keep cars from going too fast and hitting pedestrians.
Including curb ramps on your commercial paving lot can make it more accessible for people with disabilities. Curb ramps help people in wheelchairs or with strollers get onto the sidewalk from the street.
Conclusion
A commercial asphalt paving project is a significant investment. You want to ensure that it will last many years and withstand heavy traffic. Understanding parking lot markings and other features will help you make the best decisions for your business.
Laurel Asphalt has been helping businesses with their commercial paving needs for over 25 years. We are a family-owned business that takes pride in our work in Greensburg, Ligonier, Somerset, and Johnstown areas in Pennsylvania PA.
Asphalt surfaces often succumb to the effects of weathering and cracking over time. While some fractures are simply cosmetic, others can lead to bigger problems down the road if left untreated. If you’re handy with a sealant and a caulking gun, you may be wondering what the best way to seal cracks in your asphalt driveway or patio is: hot pour crack sealer or cold pour crack sealer?
Let’s look at each method a bit closer to help you decide which is suitable for your project.
Why is a Sealant Needed?
Sealing pavement cracks is essential because it helps to prevent water from seeping into the cracks and causing further damage. It also keeps out vegetation, dirt, and debris that lead to pavement deterioration.
How Does Hot Pour Crack Sealing Work?
This process involves filling cracks with a hot, melted sealant. This method is often used for pavement cracks that are wider or deeper than ¼ inch. The advantage of hot pour crack sealing is that it can be done in a shorter amount of time and provides a more seamless seal.
Here are some other characteristics and benefits of a hot pour crack sealer:
- It can be used for highways, commercial driveways, parking lots, and main roads
- It can withstand heavy traffic like cars, trucks, and RVs
- It is pricier than cold pour pavement crack sealer but provides a more permanent solution
- The application process takes a shorter time
- It adjusts to weather changes and can withstand extreme temperatures
- Is always asphalt-based
How Does a Cold Pour Crack Sealer Work?
This is a denser material applied at a lower temperature. It is suitable for pavement cracks that are shallower than ¼ inch. The advantage of using a cold pour crack sealer is that it can be applied in wet or dry conditions.
Below are some other characteristics of a cold pour crack sealer:
- It is delivered to the site in liquid form
- It needs more curing time
- It becomes inflexible when dry, which means it can’t adjust to changes in temperature changes
- It offers a temporary solution for severe damages
- It is not as durable due to its inflexibility
- It doesn’t bond with asphalt too well, so there’s a chance you’ll have to get those cracks repaired repeatedly.
What Is the Key Difference Between Hot Pour Crack Sealers and Cold Pour Crack Sealers?
The main difference is the temperature at which each sealant is applied. This temperature difference further affects the cure time, pavement bonding strength, and flexibility of each sealant.
Which Type of Crack Sealer Should I Use?
The pavement crack sealer you should use depends on the cracks’ severity, the area’s temperature range, and your budget.
If the pavement cracks are small and not very deep, you can use a cold pour crack sealer. It is best applied in the fall or spring when the temperature is cool.
However, if the pavement cracks are large or deep, you will need to use a hot pour crack sealer. It can be applied in any temperature range but is best used in the summer when it is hot.
Conclusion:
Laurel Asphalt is a full-service asphalt paving company that provides crack sealing services to homeowners and businesses in Ligonier. If you need high-quality asphalt paving or sealcoating services, please get a free estimate before starting out.
The Joy Of Shooting Hoops: Why Recreation Centers Must Install Community Basketball Courts
Basketball is one of America’s favorite sports, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. That’s why it’s so crucial for recreation centers to install community basketball courts – so that everyone can shoot hoops!
In this blog post, Laurel Asphalt will explore why community basketball courts are so important. From helping people stay active and healthy to providing a sense of community, there are many benefits to having basketball courts near Mt. Pleasant, MI, in your local recreation center.
So, why are community basketball courts so important? Let’s take a look.
Helps Residents You Stay Fit and Healthy:
You must exercise regularly to promote general health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and enhance mental well-being. According to the CDC, only about one-third of Americans get enough physical activity each week.
One way to help increase physical activity levels is by installing community basketball courts. This way, people of all ages can come to the recreation center and shoot some hoops. Not only will this help residents stay fit and healthy, but it will also give them a chance to socialize and have fun.
Boosts Community Morale:
In addition to improving physical health, community basketball courts can also boost community morale. When people come together and have fun, it can make the community a better place to live.
Provides a Sense of Belonging:
In addition to helping people stay healthy, community basketball courts can also provide a sense of community. They can be a great place to meet new people and make friends.
When people feel like they belong, they’re more likely to be engaged in their community. People who experience a sense of belonging have better mental health and general well-being.
Makes Residents Socially Active:
Basketball courts can also help to make residents socially active. A study by the University of Michigan found that people who live in areas with community basketball courts are more likely to be active and engaged in their community.
Have a Positive Effect on Mental Health:
Basketball may contribute to improved mental health. An analysis by the University of North Carolina found that basketball players have lower anxiety and stress levels. Basketball can also help to improve mood and increase self-esteem.
Boosts Property Values:
Another benefit of having a community basketball court is that it can boost property values. A National Association of Realtors study found that homes near recreation facilities, like basketball courts, tend to have higher resale values.
Open for All:
The finest thing about basketball is that it’s a sport for everyone. Unlike some sports, there is no age limit on playing basketball. Whether you’re five or fifty, you can enjoy shooting hoops. Basketball is also relatively inexpensive to play, which makes it accessible to people of all income levels.
Bottom Line:
Basketball is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a recreational activity that will increase your heart rate. Not only is it great exercise, but playing basketball can be a lot of fun. And what could be more enjoyable than shooting hoops with friends and family in your community?
That’s why Laurel Asphalt is proud to offer our services for installing high-quality community basketball courts in Mt. Pleasant, MI. We understand the significance of providing residents with access to recreation, and our courts are built to last. So if you’re interested in adding a little excitement to your neighborhood, call us today for a free estimate!
If you’ve ever had the displeasure of hitting a pothole, you know that it can wreck your day. Not to mention, it’s a safety hazard. So, if you find any on your driveway, you wouldn’t want to waste any time and repair it immediately. But what’s the best way to repair potholes?
When repairing potholes, many assume that the only way to do it is by using hot mix asphalt. However, another option can be just as effective – a cold patch. Laurel Asphalt is a paving maintenance firm in Bedford that provides top-quality asphalt paving and related services.
In this blog post, we will closely examine both methods and compare them to see which is best for your specific needs.
Hot Mix Asphalt
Hot mix asphalt is the most common method for repairing potholes. It involves heating a mixture of aggregate and bitumen to create a hot, gooey substance that can be easily poured into the pothole. The hot mix will cool and harden, creating a solid and durable patch.
Advantages
There are several advantages to using hot mix asphalt for pothole repair, including:
- It’s quick and easy to use;
- It creates a long-lasting repair;
Disadvantages
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider, such as:
- It’s more expensive than a cold patch;
- It requires specialized equipment;
- It can only be used when the temperature outside is above 40 degrees;
Cold Patch
A cold patch is an alternate method for repairing potholes. It’s a cheaper and simpler option that can be done without specialized equipment.
To use the cold patch, you must fill the pothole with an asphalt-based material. It can be done by using a shovel or trowel to fill the hole, then compacting the material with a hand tamper or vehicle tire.
Advantages
Following are some benefits of using a cold patch to repair potholes.
- It is relatively less expensive;
- Cold patch is a simple method that doesn’t require much expertise;
- No special equipment is needed to do a cold patch;
- The cold patch can be used in most weather conditions;
Disadvantages
There are also some disadvantages to consider, such as:
- It’s not as strong or durable as hot mix asphalt;
- It takes longer to set and cure;
- It can’t be used in wet weather conditions;
Which is The Best Method?
So, what’s the best method for pothole repair – cold patch or hot mix asphalt? There is no definitive answer, as each has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your budget, damage severity, and skillset. If you’re confident in your abilities and have the time and money to spare, then hot mix asphalt is the better option. However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t have the time to wait for the asphalt to cool, then the cold patch is probably your best bet.
Whichever method you choose, make sure you do a good job – nobody likes driving over a pothole! Laurel Asphalt serving Bedford is the firm to call if you need professional asphalt paving services.
When you think of dangers to your business, what comes to mind? Shoplifters? Rogue hackers out to steal your customers’ data? While those threats are real and should be taken seriously, one danger you may not have considered is non-compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). That’s right – if your commercial parking lot doesn’t meet ADA requirements, you could be in for a nasty surprise.
In this blog post, Laurel Asphalt will look at the dangers of ADA non-compliance and some tips for ensuring that your parking lot is compliant. Stay safe and informed – read on!
Danger 1: Fines and Penalties
The first and most obvious danger of ADA non-compliance is that you could be subject to fines and penalties. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) can assess civil penalties of up to $75,000 for a first and $150,000 for a subsequent violation. And that’s not all – the DOJ can also bring a lawsuit against your business, which could result in an injunction ordering you to make your property accessible and pay compensatory damages to people harmed by your lack of compliance.
Danger 2: Lost Customers and Bad publicity
Another danger of ADA non-compliance is that you could lose customers or suffer bad publicity. If potential customers see that your commercial parking lot is not accessible, they may take their business elsewhere. And if current customers find out you’re not in compliance, they may stop doing business with you.
What’s more, if your enterprise is involved in a lawsuit or there’s negative publicity about your lack of compliance, it could seriously damage your reputation.
Danger 3: Employee Lawsuits
ADA non-compliance can also lead to lawsuits from employees. Suppose your employees cannot access all workplace areas due to ADA compliance. In that case, they may file a lawsuit against you. In addition, if an employee is injured because of ADA non-compliance (for example, if they trip on an uneven sidewalk), they could sue you for damages.
Tips For Ensuring Compliance
There are a few vital things you can do to make sure your business parking lot is ADA compliant:
- Educate yourself and your employees about the ADA and what it requires.
- Regularly check for compliance issues and address them immediately.
- Make sure new construction or renovations are done in accordance with ADA standards.
- Keep up to date on changes to the ADA so you can stay compliant.
The Bottom Line
ADA compliance is important for all businesses, but it’s especially important for small businesses. The risks and penalties of non-compliance can be significant, so it’s crucial to take steps to ensure your business complies with the law.
Let Laurel Asphalt Help You Out!
All commercial parking lots in Altoona should be ADA compliant. That’s why Laurel Asphalt makes sure that our team is always keeping up with the latest changes, so we can help you stay compliant. If you need assistance making sure your commercial parking lot is ADA compliant or if you need any other asphalt services, get a free quote from Laurel Asphalt today!
There’s no doubt that commercial properties need to be driver-friendly. Bumpy roads and potholes are a driver’s worst nightmare, so it’s essential to make sure your property is up to par.
We have tips to help you make your property more accommodating for drivers.
1. Remove Potholes
Potholes are not only a pain for drivers, but they can also do severe damage to vehicles. If your property has potholes, ensure they are filled in as soon as possible. Potholes can be filled with materials such as asphalt, concrete, or cold patch. If they are left unrepaired, they will only continue to grow and cause more damage.
You need to hire a professional asphalt repair company to come and assess the damage. They will have the necessary tools & materials to fix the potholes quickly and efficiently.
2. Seal Cracks In The Pavement
If your commercial property has any cracks in the pavement, make sure to have them sealed as soon as possible. Sealing cracks in the pavement is another way to make your commercial property more driver-friendly. Cracks can form for various reasons, such as weathering, vehicle traffic, and tree roots.
Cracks can quickly become potholes if not repaired, so taking care of them as soon as possible is essential.
3. Install Decorative Crosswalks
Crosswalks are essential for pedestrians, but they can also be a great way to add some personality to your commercial property. You can make decorative crosswalks from various materials, such as brick, concrete, and even colored asphalt.
If your property is near a busy street, installing decorative crosswalks is a great way to make it driver-friendly. This will not only make it safer for pedestrians to cross the street, but it will also add to the overall aesthetic of your property. Decorative crosswalks can be found at most hardware stores or ordered online.
4. Add Speed Bumps
Another way to make your property more driver-friendly is to add speed bumps. Speed bumps are a great way to slow down traffic and can help to prevent accidents.
You can make speed bumps from various materials, including concrete, asphalt, and rubber. They can also be found in a variety of sizes and shapes.
5. Add Signage
You can use signs to warn drivers of potential hazards, such as potholes or speed bumps. You can also use them to provide information about parking regulations. Signs can be found at most hardware stores.
At Laurel Asphalt serving Somerset, we know that an incredible drive starts with an excellent surface. That’s why we take care in every job we do – from the initial consultation to the final paving.
Not only does our asphalt look great and feel smooth, but it’s also incredibly durable. You don’t have to consider cracks or potholes forming in your driveway anytime soon. Plus, our seal coating will keep your driveway looking new for years to come. We also provide decorative crosswalks to make your road experience even better! Get your free estimate now!
Laurel Asphalt Meets Lake Erie – Expanding Our Decorative Asphalt Services In A Region Near You!
Are you someone living in the northeastern region looking for decorative asphalt services? Know what you want in terms of decorative asphalt, but do not have someone local to complete the job? Look no further! Laurel Asphalt is looking to expand our decorative asphalt services into states such as western New York, Maryland, West Virginia and eastern Ohio and may be at your service! Let’s look at what Laurel Asphalt was able to offer a small town located in northwestern New York and give you the opportunity to see for yourself what can be provided for towns near and far.
In the quite town of Fredonia, Laurel Asphalt installed four crosswalks at one intersection just south of Lake Erie in the northwestern part of New York. It was a smaller town square with plenty of hustling small businesses. The town hall and opera were located on one corner with a church on the other, bordered by a beautiful park that pulls the whole town together. For this project, Laurel Asphalt used a thermoplastic material called TrafficPatterns®XD. This highly durable material does well in severe weather conditions and is highly accessible, making for a friendly surface for pedestrians and drivers to access. TrafficPatterns®XD is skid resistant and improves visibility for both vehicle drivers and pedestrians.
Not only is TrafficPatterns®XD highly durable and safe, but it is also very appealing to the eyes of pedestrians and those who own small businesses in that area, which engages the community and promotes a better image for the town. What is even better is that TrafficPatterns®XD is entirely customizable, being offered in a variety of brick, stone and tile patterns. Not to mention, the colors can also be completely customized and tailored to match your towns aesthetic!
Because decorative asphalt products such as TrafficPatterns®XD are so unique, not many asphalt companies offer them. Laurel Asphalt takes pride in being one of the few leading decorative asphalt service providers in the area and is willing and determined to expand into the northeastern region to towns near and far!
Contact Laurel Asphalt today if you want to learn more about TrafficPatterns®XD and see what we could provide for your town. We hope to expand our services in a town near you.
While a pretty sky sure does help illuminate the features of a small town, so do the roads! Are you trying to find ways to spruce up your small town and make street corners, roads and existing crosswalks more appealing? How about improve safety and standard features when it comes to your roads and those who walk about them? Decorative Asphalt can do both! Whether you are looking for “brick-like” effects or a sleeker stone look for your town, decorative asphalt can help captivate the landscape and make your town truly feel like home.
Here at Laurel Asphalt, we pride ourselves on decorative asphalt and believe there are many aesthetic and safety benefits to choosing this product among other hardscape options. Don’t believe it? Let us show you a town’s roads that were completely transformed and made safer by using a decorative asphalt product called DuraTherm®!
In the small town of Murrysville, located 20 minutes east of Pittsburgh, PA, Laurel Asphalt was able to transform one of the bigger intersections in the town, making it safer for pedestrians to cross and enhancing the overall effect of the square, tying the whole town together. In Murrysville specifically, we used a high performing in-laid thermoplastic material called DuraTherm® that lasts a lot longer than competing products, hosts anti-skid properties creating a safe surface for vehicles and pedestrians and faces harsh weather conditions and snowplows well (which is important in the whole region!).
Laurel Asphalt can guarantee that your crosswalks will last you years to come and can also say with confidence that your decorative asphalt will leave your small town looking better than ever. To make it sound even greater, you can customize it to your liking! Decorative asphalt products such as DuraTherm® offer an array of colors and patterns you can choose from, giving you endless opportunities to design your town the way you want.
Laurel Asphalt has years of experience using decorative asphalt, specifically DuraTherm® and is determined to provide your town with the most visually appealing and durable crosswalks that will last!
Contact us today if you want to hear more about DuraTherm® or other products that could help your small town in hopes to make the roads “prettier than the sky”.
Your Concise Guide To Utility Potholing
Are you having trouble getting your utility repairs started? Do you need to get through a challenging, rocky area on your asphalt pavement but don’t know how? Utility potholing may be the perfect solution for you! This process is a great way to repair the lines and potholes, making your pavement look ugly.
So let’s start with getting to know what utility potholing means and how to tackle it.
1. What is utility potholing, and what are its benefits?
Utility potholing is the process of excavating a hole to expose buried utility lines for inspection or repair. The hole is typically square or rectangular and is no more than four feet wide and four feet deep. Potholing is typically done with a shovel, pick, and other hand tools. Utility companies will often request that potholes be dug to map their underground lines.
Contractors who dig the holes are typically called “pothole crews.” Potholing is an essential part of any construction project that involves excavating near buried utilities. Potholes help prevent damage to the utilities and protect the workers digging in the area.
2. How can you prepare for a potholing project on your property?
Before starting a potholing project, it is essential to call your local 811 number to have utility lines marked. Once the area is clear, you will need to rent a pneumatic thruster, also called an air hammer, and an air compressor. The pneumatic thruster breaks up the concrete, and the air compressor provides power for the device.
It is also necessary to rent a mud pump, which is used to remove the debris from the hole. Finally, you will need to purchase a liner to put in the hole before filling it with dirt or gravel. This will help to prevent the spot from collapsing in on itself. Following these simple steps will help ensure that your potholing project succeeds.
3. What tools and equipment do you need to carry out a successful potholing project?
- First, you’ll need a sturdy shovel to dig your way down to the desired depth. A meter stick or tape measure can also help ensure that you’re digging the correct size hole.
- Second, you’ll need a way to remove the dirt and debris from the hole. A small hand trowel or garden spade can work well for this purpose.
- Finally, you’ll need something to catch the water as it flows into the hole. A large bucket or tub will do the trick.
With these supplies on hand, you’ll be ready to tackle your next potholing project.
4. Whom should you contact if you’re interested in hiring a professional potholer?
Potholing is a very technical process, so it’s not recommended to get the job done by an untrustworthy person. You have to make sure that your service providers are experts in their arena, such as Laurel Asphalt, serving Ligonier, IN, and experts in utility pothole repairs and services. We have been serving our clientele for over 25 years. Get a free estimate today!
Asphalt is one of the most popular materials used for driveways because it is durable and long-lasting. However, asphalt can be dull in its natural state. If you want to add some personality and pizzazz to your home, stamped-colored asphalt may be the perfect solution! If you need a new driveway, you may be wondering if stamped-colored asphalt is the right choice for you. There are many reasons to choose this type of driveway, and Laurel Asphalt will outline a few of them here.
1. Aesthetics
It looks great! Stamped-colored asphalt can be customized to match the style of your home and landscape. It is also available in various colors, so you can choose something that stands out!
2. Cost-Effective
It is cost-effective to add curb appeal to your home without breaking the bank. When compared to other driveway materials, stamped asphalt is very affordable. It is easily installed, saving you money on installation costs.
3. Durable
If you are looking for durable driveway material, stamped-colored asphalt may be the perfect solution! Contact our team at Laurel Asphalt to get started on your project.
4. Low Maintenance
A stamped-colored asphalt driveway requires little maintenance, making it a convenient and hassle-free option.
5. Safe
Stamped asphalt is a non-slip surface safe for walking, playing, and driving.
6. Eco-Friendly
It is made from recycled materials, making it an environmentally-friendly choice.
7. Easy to Clean
A stamped-colored asphalt driveway is easy to sweep or hose off when necessary.
8. Stain Resistant
Stamped asphalt is resistant to staining from oil, gas, and other common household chemicals.
9. Withstand Wear and Tear
Stamped asphalt is a rigid material that can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions without showing wear.
10. Curb Appeal
It can give your home or business a polished look to boost curb appeal.
11. Adds Value to Your Property
Stamped asphalt increases the value of your property by enhancing its appearance and increasing its durability.
12. Wise Investment
Stamped asphalt is a cost-effective way to improve the look of your home or business, bringing you more business, requiring less maintenance, and increasing the value of your property. Hence it is wise to invest in it.
13. Slip-Resistant
It has a textured surface that provides traction, making it safe for walking and driving.
14. Customize to Match Your Home’s Exterior
You can customize it to match your home. Stamped asphalt is an excellent option if you want your driveway to fit your home’s exterior.
Ending Note
So, if you are still on the fence about stamped-colored asphalt driveways, we hope this article has helped sway you in our direction. This driveway option is more aesthetically pleasing, but it is more durable and will last longer than a plain grey asphalt driveway. Contact Laurel Asphalt serving Cambria County, PA, for a free estimate. We would be happy to discuss your options!
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