Let us talk about parking lots. If you own property here in Westminster, whether it is a small business, an HOA, or even a larger residential complex, you know how important a good parking lot is. It is often the first thing people see when they visit your property. A parking lot also takes a beating from our Colorado weather as well as daily traffic. Quantum Asphalt has seen a lot of folks make some common mistakes when they are planning a paving project or hiring for a paving project. Those mistakes can cost you a lot of money later on. We will go into what you need to watch out for with your Westminster parking lot project.
Ignoring the Ground Beneath Your Feet
This is probably the number one mistake Quantum Asphalt sees. It is especially important here in Westminster, Colorado. We have our fair share of expansive clay soils, particularly in areas like the Ranch Reserve as well as around Legacy Ridge. That clay expands when it gets wet. It also shrinks when it dries. This can cause a lot of damage to any pavement if the subgrade is not prepared correctly. You cannot just lay asphalt on top of unstable soil and expect it to last for a long time.
What does this mean for you and your Westminster parking lot? If a contractor is not talking about soil testing, proper grading, and a solid base layer, that is a huge red flag. They need to make sure the ground is stable. The ground also needs to be compacted correctly. It needs to have adequate drainage as well. Skipping this step leads to premature cracking. It also leads to potholes. This means an overall shorter lifespan for your parking lot. You will be paying for repairs much sooner than you should have to for your Westminster parking lot.
Falling for the 'Leftover Asphalt' Scam
Quantum Asphalt cannot tell you how many times we have heard stories about this one. Someone knocks on your door, usually claiming they are