Education

A well-maintained campus plays a crucial role in creating a positive learning environment. However, with the average age of schools in the United States being 42 years old, many educational institutions struggle to maintain their aging infrastructure. Facility managers often face challenges such as inadequate staffing, insufficient training, and a lack of maintenance plans, making it difficult to stay on top of upkeep. One critical aspect of campus maintenance is ensuring that parking lots, walkways, and other paved surfaces remain in good condition. In this article, we will discuss 7 essential pavement maintenance tips that can help schools and universities improve safety and enhance curb appeal.

National Pavement Partners, with their 45+ years of combined experience, has been helping educational institutions nationwide make a literal “surface” transformation with parking lot maintenance and repair. Their parking lot management solutions assist facility managers in identifying defects and developing a plan for routine maintenance that maximizes time and money. The end result is parking areas that provide smooth and safe travel while also projecting a positive image of the facility. Check out the following pavement maintenance tips in this article to ensure your school grounds are properly maintained.

Tailored Solutions For Educational Institutions

National Pavement Partners understands the unique needs of educational institutions when it comes to pavement maintenance. With a strong focus on planning, scheduling, and safety, they deliver tailored solutions to help schools and universities keep their paved surfaces in top condition. Below are the pavement maintenance tips your should be following in order to ensure all facilities are healthy, clean, and well-maintained.

Pavement Maintenance Tips: Planning, Scheduling, & Safety

For educational institutions, it is critical to have a system in place to keep facilities healthy, clean, and well-maintained on an ongoing basis. Parking lots are no exception. When short on staff and time, it is especially important to consult the experts in parking lot management. National Pavement Partners performs on-site evaluations of parking areas and can educate facility managers on how to spot warning signs of pavement failure. A Pavement Management Plan (or PMP) can be developed to outline defects and schedule repairs, based on priority and budget.

By planning ahead and scheduling routine maintenance, schools, and universities can revitalize from the ground up. This, in turn, creates a safer environment more conducive to learning and celebrating school pride.

In summary, here are the 7 essential pavement maintenance tips for schools and universities:

Sealcoating

Out of all of the pavement maintenance tips, sealcoating is a crucial step in pavement maintenance as it helps protect the asphalt surface from harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and chemicals. It involves applying a protective layer, usually a coal tar or asphalt emulsion, that can prolong the life of the pavement and improve its appearance. Regular sealcoating, typically every 2-3 years, can help prevent the asphalt from drying out, becoming brittle, and cracking over time. This cost-effective process also improves the pavement’s resistance to water, oil, and gas spills, reducing the chances of damage.

Crack sealing

Cracks in the pavement can lead to water infiltration, which causes damage to the base layers and potentially leads to potholes. Crack sealing is the process of filling these cracks with a flexible sealant, usually a rubberized asphalt or polymer-modified material, to prevent water penetration and further deterioration of the pavement. Timely crack sealing helps maintain the integrity of the pavement structure and extends its lifespan.

Pothole repair

Potholes can pose a safety hazard to pedestrians and drivers and should be repaired promptly. The process typically involves removing the damaged asphalt, cleaning the area, applying a tack coat, filling the hole with new asphalt, and compacting it. Quick and efficient pothole repair prevents further damage to the pavement and ensures a safe and smooth surface for users.

Line striping and pavement markings

Clear and visible pavement markings, such as parking spaces, crosswalks, and directional arrows, are crucial for safety and organization. Regular maintenance of these markings ensures that they remain visible and adhere to local regulations. Fading or poorly marked lines can lead to confusion and accidents. Using high-quality, durable paint or thermoplastic materials can extend the lifespan of these markings and reduce the frequency of maintenance.

Snow removal

Snow removal In areas like Colorado, snow and ice management is essential during the winter months. It is crucial to keep paved surfaces clear of snow and ice to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors. Snow removal involves using plows, snow blowers, and deicing agents to maintain clear and accessible parking lots and walkways. Having a snow removal plan in place and partnering with a reliable service provider can help educational institutions prevent accidents and keep their facilities operational during winter weather.

ADA compliance

Schools and universities must ensure that their parking lots and walkways comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This may involve installing ADA-compliant ramps, signage, and parking spaces. Regular maintenance and inspection of these facilities ensure that they remain accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities. Non-compliance with ADA regulations can result in fines and legal issues for the institution.

General maintenance and cleaning

Periodic sweeping, cleaning, and debris removal are necessary to maintain the appearance and safety of paved surfaces. Accumulated dirt, sand, leaves, and other debris can reduce traction and contribute to the deterioration of the pavement. Regular cleaning not only keeps the paved areas looking attractive but also helps extend their lifespan by reducing wear and tear. Incorporating general maintenance and cleaning into a comprehensive pavement management plan can help educational institutions maintain a safe and welcoming environment.

With the expert guidance of National Pavement Partners, educational institutions in Colorado and across the nation can ensure their parking lots and walkways remain safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. The pavement maintenance tips provided in this article are essential to the success of keeping your school grounds well-maintained. Not only will this provide a positive experience for those attending, but it also helps with creating a great first impression for those who are thinking about registering.