If you have an asphalt parking lot with problems, but they're not so severe to warrant a total replacement, asphalt overlaying may be appropriate. This is where a thin layer of new asphalt is applied to cover up damaged areas. You can have success with this restoration if you take these precautions.

Make Sure Overlaying is Possible First 

Before you start putting a new layer of asphalt on the existing asphalt around your parking lot, you want to make sure this service is even possible. It will depend on the current condition of your asphalt parking lot, and this is something you want to have professionally assessed so that you know exactly how to restore your parking lot going forward. 

You just need to talk to an asphalt paving contractor who works with parking lots regularly, and then have them give an honest assessment about whether asphalt overlaying is possible or not. If they say it is, you can go into this restoration expecting to get positive results. 

Determine a Proper Thickness For the New Asphalt Layer 

An important factor to figure out with asphalt overlaying is determining how thick the new asphalt layer is going to be. This can vary depending on how much damage is present and the amount of durability you're looking for.

It's a good idea to consult with an asphalt paving company to figure out which thickness is going to serve your asphalt parking lot the best over time. They can send someone out to see what parts are damaged and how severe the damage is. Then they'll recommend a thickness you can trust is going to adequately restore your parking lot. 

Look at Past Overlaying Results With Several Different Companies

Asphalt overlaying can still be a pretty sizable project and you thus want to have a professional paving company help you complete it. You'll have an easier time choosing the right company to work with if you look at past overlaying jobs they've finished. 

Then you can assess the overall quality you see initially, the smoothness of the new asphalt layer, and the slope that's achieved. You'll want to be in person to review these qualities of asphalt overlay so that you can make a better selection ultimately. 

If you're looking to enhance your asphalt parking lot without totally ripping it apart, overlaying may be a great investment to look into. You just need to plan out a couple of things before getting started.