Winters in Dexter, MI, can be brutal on parking lots. With heavy snow, ice, and constant freeze-thaw cycles, asphalt surfaces take a serious beating. By the time spring rolls around, many businesses in the area notice cracks, potholes, and faded striping that make their parking lots unsafe and unappealing.
If your parking lot has suffered from Michigan’s harsh winter weather, a professional asphalt contractor can help restore it. Here are seven ways Anthony’s Asphalt can get your lot back in top shape after a Dexter winter.
Key Takeaways
- Potholes form when water freezes and thaws under asphalt, causing cracks that break apart and create hazards.
- Crack sealing with rubberized sealant prevents water damage, especially in areas with heavy spring rain like Dexter.
- Resurfacing adds a new asphalt layer over existing pavement, restoring smoothness for high-traffic lots near Dexter Town Center.
- Sealcoating every few years protects asphalt from UV rays, oil, and moisture while boosting curb appeal.
- Parking lot striping improves safety and traffic flow, especially near schools and busy commercial areas.
7 Ways an Asphalt Contractor Can Revive Your Parking Lot After a Winter in Dexter, MI
Winter can be brutal on parking lots in Dexter, MI, leaving behind cracks, potholes, and faded striping. Harsh freeze-thaw cycles weaken the asphalt, making it more prone to damage as temperatures rise. Ignoring these issues can lead to costly repairs and safety hazards.
From crack sealing to fresh sealcoating, here are seven ways an asphalt contractor can bring your parking lot back to life after a rough winter.
1. Pothole Patching
One of the most common issues after winter is potholes. The constant freezing and thawing of water beneath the pavement weakens the asphalt, causing cracks that eventually lead to breakage. Potholes are a double threat–they damage the appearance of the road but also create hazards for both vehicles and pedestrians. Patching is a crucial repair method to address these issues and prevent further deterioration.
A professional contractor will clean out the damaged area and use hot mix asphalt to create a durable, smooth patch. In high-traffic areas like Main Street or Baker Road, pothole repairs are essential to keeping customers safe and preventing further damage.
2. Crack Sealing to Prevent Future Damage
Even small cracks can turn into major problems if left untreated. Water seeps into cracks, refreezes, and expands, causing more damage over time.
An asphalt contractor will fill cracks with a specialized rubberized sealant that prevents moisture from penetrating the pavement. This is especially important in Dexter, where unpredictable spring rainstorms can accelerate pavement deterioration.
3. Resurfacing for a Fresh, Smooth Surface
If your parking lot has widespread damage but a solid base, resurfacing is a cost-effective way to restore it. This process involves applying a new layer of asphalt over the existing pavement, creating a fresh and smooth driving surface.
This is a great option for businesses in high-traffic areas like the Dexter Town Center or near busy locations like Dexter-Huron Metropark, where parking lots experience significant wear and tear.
4. Sealcoating for Long-Term Protection
Sealcoating is a crucial step in protecting your parking lot from future damage. This thin protective layer shields asphalt from UV rays, oil spills, and moisture—three major culprits of pavement deterioration.
Given the unpredictable Michigan weather, sealcoating every 2-3 years helps extend the life of your parking lot. It also gives your lot a clean, jet-black finish that improves curb appeal—important for businesses along Ann Arbor Street looking to attract customers.
5. Repainting Parking Lot Lines and Markings
Faded parking lines, crosswalks, and handicap markings can create confusion and even safety hazards. Spring is the perfect time to refresh ADA-compliant striping and to make sure your parking lot is clearly marked.
In high-traffic areas, such as near Dexter High School or Mill Creek Middle School, clear parking lot striping improves safety and traffic flow, reducing the risk of accidents.
6. Drainage Solutions to Prevent Water Damage
Standing water is a major enemy of asphalt. If you notice puddles in your lot after heavy rain or melting snow, it could indicate drainage issues.
An experienced contractor can assess your lot and install solutions like catch basins or proper grading to direct water away from the pavement. This is especially useful for businesses near Mill Creek, where excess moisture can accelerate pavement wear.
7. Full Parking Lot Reconstruction (If Needed)
If winter has completely wrecked your parking lot with deep cracks, widespread potholes, and drainage failures, a full reconstruction may be the best solution. This involves removing the existing asphalt, repairing the base, and installing new pavement.
While it’s a bigger investment, it guarantees a long-lasting and durable parking lot, perfect for businesses near high-traffic areas like the Dexter Cider Mill, where parking lots must accommodate large seasonal crowds.
Restore Your Parking Lot with Expert Help
Winter may have been rough on your parking lot, but getting it back in shape doesn’t have to be a hassle. At Anthony’s Asphalt, we specialize in repairing and restoring parking lots across Dexter, MI. Whether you need pothole patching, crack sealing, sealcoating, milling, or a complete resurfacing, we’ve got the expertise to get the job done right.
Don’t wait until small problems turn into major expenses. Call us today for a free estimate and let’s get your parking lot looking brand new!