The average driver can spend up to 17 hours per year looking for a parking space. This leaves people feeling frustrated that there isn’t better accessibility to a facility.
Want to attract more people to your residential, commercial, or industrial service? Then parking lot construction is the way forward.
This article is here to break down the ins and outs of building a parking lot. We cover parking lot functionality and accessibility, as well as drainage considerations.
Consider the Function of the Parking Lot
The first thing to consider when you build a parking lot is what kind of vehicles will be using it. This will determine the type of material you use for the surface.
If there will only be cars and motorbikes, then you can work in a tighter space and offer smaller parking spaces. You will also need a thinner pavement thickness compared to if vans and lorries will park there.
Although concrete tends to be cheaper, it is not as long-lasting as asphalt for heavy-duty lots. Also if this is an exposed, outdoor parking lot then concrete tends to get more damaged by the weather. If you aren’t sure which surface is best, a construction company can guide your decision.
Depending on the size of the parking lot, you will want to decide the flow of traffic. If you are working in a smaller area, then a one-way system will help save space. You will need to consider where you want vehicles to enter and exit.
The angle of the parking spaces is another consideration. If you have an unusually shaped lot, you may need angled rather than straight parking spaces. Both have pros and cons, so we recommend you draft up a layout with both to see which works best.
Don’t Forget Drainage
Drainage is one of the most important things to think about when building a parking lot. Installing drains for stormwater runoff is a priority. This will get checked by local building authorities, so make sure you get it right.
There are several types of drainage systems which are:
- Standard catch basins
- Trench drainage basins
- French drains
- Concrete-encased drainage basins
Make sure you get the right permits and permissions when installing drainage systems.
If you don’t add drainage you can end up with water buildup which can create damage to the parking lot. It can also have a negative effect on wildlife and the drinking water supply. It can also lower the value of surrounding properties.
Make Accessibility a Priority
When building a residential or commercial parking lot, accessibility should be a priority. Make sure there is clear signage showing disabled parking areas. Design the lot so the disabled bays are close to the building, and there are ramps available if necessary.
You will also need to make sure that the lot is always well-maintained. If the surface is not in good condition, this could increase fall risks. It also reduces navigation for those with wheelchairs or other mobility support.
Get the Best Parking Lot Construction
There is a lot to think about if you are considering parking lot construction. Now you have read this article, you have some good pointers for what to focus on when building a parking lot. This will make your parking lot high-quality and easy to use.
Looking for an experienced construction company to help build a parking lot? Then trust Alpha to Omega Properties. We are experts in residential, commercial, and industrial building projects. We can turn your designs into reality!
Get in touch today to get started on your next big building project!