An asphalt car park is a parking area constructed using mastic asphalt or asphalt. Mastic asphalt waterproofing is famed for being a highly durable material which has led to it often being referred to as the “King Of Waterproofing”. The primary difference between mastic asphalt and asphalt is mastic asphalt has higher proportion of bitumen and additional fillers. For car park waterproofing mastic asphalt is normally a better choice. Mastic asphalt is heated to a high temperature, normally between 210°C and 230°C, then applied in layers to the car park substrate. Mastic asphalt is applied to a car park in two layers, first a roofing grade layer of mastic asphalt, then a paving grade layer of asphalt. Once cured mastic asphalt creates a seamless, waterproof, and wear-resistant surface. The robustness and longevity of mastic asphalt make it a market leading membrane for car park areas which must endure heavy traffic and exposure to harsh weather conditions. While asphalt car park waterproofing requires skilled labour which makes initial costs high, the longevity of mastic asphalt systems makes them excellent value for money.
What Are Asphalt Car Parks?
Asphalt car parks are parking facilities constructed using mastic asphalt or asphalt. Mastic asphalt contains a higher proportion of bitumen and fillers than asphalt. Due to mastic asphalt being a superior waterproofing material it is normally the better choice for car parks. Mastic asphalt is a highly durable material composed of bitumen and a high proportion of fine aggregates. Mastic asphalt is heated to a high temperature, normally between 210°C to 230°C (410°F to 446°F), to achieve a liquid state. This molten asphalt is then spread and compacted into a seamless, smooth surface. Mastic asphalt is famous in the construction industry for having exceptional durability, waterproofing properties, and an ability to withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.
Mastic asphalt is used for car parks due to its long lifespan. There are many cases of mastic asphalt lasting in excess of 50 years when properly maintained. The supreme waterproofing properties of mastic asphalt makes it ideal for situations where water ingress can cause significant structural damage, examples include multi-storey car parks and rooftop parking decks.
Mastic asphalt provides a seamless waterproofing membrane which is highly resistant to chemical spills. This excellent chemical resistance makes mastic asphalt perfect for environments where oil, fuel, and other automotive fluids are present. Asphalt car park waterproofing also offers excellent load-bearing capacity, ensuring it can support the weight of heavy vehicles without deformation. The material's smooth finish enhances user experience by providing a stable, slip-resistant surface which is easy to clean, maintain and repair.
Asphalt car parks are a practical and efficient waterproofing solution for parking facilities. Choosing asphalt car park waterproofing offers unparalleled durability, waterproofing performance, and convenient maintenance. This makes asphalt car parks an excellent choice for car park owners who want to prioritise the longevity and functionality of their parking facility.
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What Are The Benefits Of Asphalt Car Par Waterproofing?
Asphalt car park waterproofing offers several benefits which make it an ideal choice for durable and reliable parking facilities. The exceptional durability and superior waterproofing capabilities of mastic asphalt are the standout benefits of mastic asphalt. However, there are many more benefits associated with asphalt car park waterproofing which we will explore below:
- Exceptional Durability
- Superior Waterproofing
- High Load-Bearing Capacity
- Chemical Resistance
- Seamless Application
- Low Maintenance
- Slip-Resistant Surface
- Thermal Efficiency
- Ease of Cleaning
- Eco-Friendly Options
1. Exceptional Durability
Mastic asphalt is renowned for its longevity when used for car parks, it has a lifespan which often exceeds 50 years when maintained correctly. The robust nature of mastic asphalt means the car park deck it protects can withstand heavy vehicular traffic, environmental stressors, and foot traffic. According to the Mastic Asphalt Council, mastic asphalt's lifespan can significantly outlast other car park surfacing options. For this reason mastic asphalt car park waterproofing reduces the frequency and cost of resurfacing projects. Mastic asphalt is highly resistant to mechanical damage and UV degradation which further contributes to its durability. Mastic asphalt's ability to maintain structural integrity under extreme temperature variations makes it an ideal choice for waterproofing car parks in diverse climates. The durable surface of asphalt makes mastic asphalt a cost-effective solution over the long term, as it minimises the need for repairs and replacements, ultimately reducing lifecycle costs.
2. Superior Waterproofing
One of the standout features of mastic asphalt for car parks is its superior waterproofing capabilities. Mastic asphalt forms an impermeable, seamless barrier which prevents water ingress. The prevention of water ingress is crucial for protecting the structural integrity of car parks, especially for the multi-storey car park and rooftop car parks. The Mastic Asphalt Council notes the waterproofing properties of mastic asphalt make it ideal for environments prone to moisture exposure. The superior waterproofing performance of mastic asphalt ensures the underlying structure remain dry and free from water damage. In tests, mastic asphalt has shown excellent resistance to hydrostatic pressure, effectively preventing leaks and seepage even under substantial water load conditions. The super waterproofing characteristics of mastic asphalt not only extends the life of the car park but also prevents costly water damage repairs.
3. High Load-Bearing Capacity
Mastic asphalt's high load-bearing capacity allows it to support heavy vehicles without deformation. This makes asphalt an excellent choice for car parks with loading bays, service decks and high usage by heavy vehicles. Research from the National Asphalt Pavement Association indicates mastic asphalt can withstand significant weights and stress, which can keep stable and resilient car park surface conditions even when heavy vehicles are present. The load-bearing performance of asphalt is enhanced by its dense composition and excellent compaction during the installation process. This means mastic asphalt distributes loads evenly across the surface. This characteristic allows asphalt car parks to accommodate high traffic volumes and heavy loads without compromising structural integrity or performance.
4. Chemical Resistance
Mastic asphalt has excellent chemical resistance. Asphalt car parks are excellent at tolerating chemical spills, such as oil, fuel, and other automotive fluids. This resistance prevents surface damage and maintains the integrity of the car park. According to a study by the Asphalt Institute, the chemical resistance of mastic asphalt helps in maintaining its appearance and functionality over time, making it a reliable choice for areas exposed to harsh chemicals. Its non-porous nature prevents the absorption of harmful substances, thereby reducing the risk of degradation and contamination. This makes mastic asphalt an ideal surfacing material for industrial areas and car parks, where exposure to chemicals is a common occurrence.
5. Seamless Application
The seamless nature of mastic asphalt reduces the risk of cracks and joints that can deteriorate over time. This continuous, smooth surface enhances waterproofing and durability, ensuring that there are no weak points for water ingress or structural failure. The Mastic Asphalt Council highlights that seamless application contributes to the material's overall longevity and effectiveness in various applications. Additionally, the absence of joints and seams means there are fewer places for dirt and debris to accumulate, making maintenance easier and more effective. The seamless finish of mastic asphalt also provides a uniform aesthetic appeal, improving the overall look of the car park while enhancing its functional properties.
6. Low Maintenance
Mastic asphalt requires minimal maintenance over its lifespan. The low maintenance needs of mastic asphalt significantly reduce maintenance costs. Routine inspections and minor asphalt car park repairs are usually sufficient to keep the surface in good condition. A report by the International Concrete Repair Institute suggests the low maintenance needs of mastic asphalt make it a cost-effective option for large-scale applications like car parks decks where downtime and repair costs can be significant. The durability and robustness of mastic asphalt mean car park repairs are seldom required. When car park repair work is required it is normally straightforward maintenance such as fixing expansion joints or pothole repairs. These asphalt car park repairs are generally quick and non-disruptive which helps keep the car park operational.
7. Slip-Resistant Surface
Mastic asphalt provides a stable, slip-resistant surface. The inherent texture of mastic asphalt provides excellent grip, even in adverse weather conditions. Mastic asphalt waterproofing helps car park users move safely without the risk of slipping. The slip resistance of mastic asphalt can be further enhanced by the application of an anti-skid top coat. A car park surface with sufficient traction enhances safety for both vehicles and pedestrians. Car park flooring having good traction is particularly important in wet conditions, where the risk of slips and falls is higher. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slip-resistant surfaces can reduce the incidence of accidents by up to 50%. By ensuring car park decks have good slip resistance car park owners greatly contribute to a safer environment for car park users.
8. Thermal Efficiency
The dark colour of mastic asphalt absorbs heat which helps promote thermal efficiency. This dark colour can help the melting of snow and ice in colder climates. One benefit of this thermal efficiency is the increased safety and usability of car park decks during winter. The thermal efficiency of mastic asphalt prevents the buildup of hazardous ice. The Asphalt Institute reports this characteristic can elevate the overall safety of car parks in regions with harsh winters by promoting an ice-free surface. This natural de-icing attribute of mastic asphalt reduces the need for chemical de-icers, which can be harmful to both the environment and the surface itself.
9. Ease of Cleaning
The smooth finish of mastic asphalt makes it easy to clean and maintain. This ease of cleaning helps parking facility managers to keep the car park functional and aesthetically pleasing. The British Parking Association state the regular cleaning and maintenance of car parks with mastic asphalt surfaces is straightforward. One benefit of easy cleaning is an enhancement in the overall appeal and hygiene of the facility. The non-porous nature of mastic asphalt prevents the accumulation of dirt and grime, making it easy to wash away debris with basic cleaning methods. For the car park owner who is conscious of a clean car park mastic asphalt is a leading choice.
10. Eco-Friendly
Mastic asphalt is an eco-friendly material which is carbon zero rated. Modern formulations of mastic asphalt also often incorporate recycled materials. By choosing mastic asphalt for car park waterproofing, parking facility owners can contribute to sustainability efforts. Using recycled asphalt helps decrease the demand for new raw materials and reduces waste. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasises incorporating recycled materials in construction projects can significantly lower the carbon footprint and promote environmental sustainability. Another attribute of mastic asphalt which makes it environmentally friendly is its durability and longevity. This means over the years. fewer resources are required to maintain the car park's waterproofing integrity. Mastic asphalt is an excellent choice for those who want an eco-friendly waterproofing solution for their car park.
How Much Does Asphalt Car Park Waterproofing Cost?
The cost of asphalt car park waterproofing is between £160.00 and £180.00 in most cases. However, in some car parks these prices may vary. These estimates can help you plan your budget based on the specific needs and requirements of your asphalt car park project.
| Cost per Square Metre (£ GBP) | |
|---|---|
| Mastic Asphalt | £160 to £180 |
*These estimates are general and actual costs can vary based on specific project requirements, location, and market conditions.
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