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Asphalt Car Park Waterproofing and Repairs

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Asphalt car park waterproofing is the process of applying the specialised waterproofing material mastic asphalt to the surface of a car park to create a seamless and waterproof barrier. This application is designed to protect the underlying structure from water ingress, preventing damage, and maintaining the integrity of the car park. Mastic asphalt is known for its excellent waterproofing properties and durability. It is a popular choice for waterproofing car parks, due to its performance in various weather conditions and its ability to withstand vehicular traffic. Mastic asphalt waterproofing ensures the car park remains structurally sound and extends its service life.

Asphalt car park repair involves the process of identifying and addressing damage or deterioration on the surface of a car park waterproofed with a mastic asphalt membrane. Repair of asphalt car parks can include cleaning, patching, sealing, and resurfacing damaged areas. This is done to restore the structural integrity and functionality of the car park.

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What Is Asphalt Car Park Waterproofing?

Mastic asphalt car park waterproofing is a specialised process that applies mastic asphalt, a highly durable and waterproof material, to the surfaces of car parks. This technique is essential for safeguarding the structural integrity of car park facilities, particularly those with multiple levels or those built with concrete substrates, against the damaging effects of water ingress. Mastic asphalt's unique composition makes it exceptionally resistant to the rigours of vehicular traffic and adverse environmental conditions, including UV radiation, temperature variations, and chemical exposures, such as oil and petrol spills.

The application of a mastic asphalt waterproofing layer serves multiple purposes: it not only creates an impermeable barrier that prevents water from penetrating the car park structure—thereby mitigating the risk of steel reinforcement corrosion and concrete degradation—but it also enhances the overall driving experience. The seamless, smooth finish provided by mastic asphalt improves safety, reduces the likelihood of potholes and cracks, and necessitates fewer maintenance interventions over the car park's lifespan.

Furthermore, mastic asphalt systems can be tailored with additional features, such as anti-slip surfaces and clearly defined line markings, crucial for navigation and safety within the car park. The success of a mastic asphalt waterproofing project hinges on the expertise of the installation team; professional application ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the waterproof barrier, safeguarding the car park against future structural problems and costly repairs.

Therefore, selecting mastic asphalt for car park waterproofing is a strategic decision that delivers both protective and functional advantages, ensuring that these vital urban facilities remain safe, durable, and low-maintenance for years to come.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Mastic Asphalt For Car Park Waterproofing?

Mastic asphalt offers a superior solution for car park waterproofing, combining durability with environmental sustainability. Its array of benefits extends beyond mere waterproofing to include enhanced safety features, aesthetic versatility, and a significant reduction in maintenance costs over time. These advantages make mastic asphalt an ideal choice for projects demanding long-lasting protection, cost-efficiency, and an alignment with modern environmental standards.

  1. Long Life Span
  2. Seamless Waterproofing
  3. Can Withstand Heavy Traffic
  4. Cost-Effective
  5. Chemical Resistance
  6. Carbon Zero Rating
  7. Flexibility
  8. Easy to Maintain and Repair
  9. 30% Grit Can Be Added for Extra Hardness
  10. Time-Tested Solution Proven Over Decades
  11. Safety Features
  12. Sound Reduction
  13. Aesthetic Versatility
  14. Environmental Impact

1. Long Life Span

Mastic asphalt's exceptional durability stems from its robust composition, enabling it to last for decades with minimal degradation. This resilience significantly outperforms many alternative materials, which may require frequent replacement or repair. The long lifespan of mastic asphalt ensures a prolonged protective layer against environmental factors, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term infrastructure projects.

2. Seamless Waterproofing

Mastic asphalt provides a seamless and continuous waterproof barrier that fully encapsulates the surface it covers. This impermeability is crucial for protecting the underlying structure from water ingress, which can cause significant damage over time. Its ability to form a uniform layer without joints or seams means there are no weak points through which water can penetrate, ensuring comprehensive protection.

3. Can Withstand Heavy Traffic

The composition of mastic asphalt allows it to endure the rigors of heavy vehicular movement without succumbing to wear and tear. Its toughness makes it particularly suited for application in high-traffic areas such as car parks and roadways, where durability under constant use is essential. The material's resilience to compression and abrasion contributes to its longevity, even under the weight of heavy vehicles.

4. Cost-Effective

Given its durability and low maintenance requirements, mastic asphalt represents a financially prudent choice for waterproofing. The initial investment is offset by the material's extended service life and the reduced need for repairs or replacements, making it a cost-effective option over the long term. This economic efficiency is bolstered by the material's ease of installation and minimal upkeep.

5. Chemical Resistance

Mastic asphalt's resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, petrol, and other potentially corrosive substances, makes it ideal for use in environments where chemical spills are possible. This resistance ensures that the surface integrity of the car park is maintained, preventing the degradation that can result from chemical exposure and ensuring a longer lifespan for the waterproofing layer.

6. Carbon Zero Rating

Mastic asphalt's production process has achieved a carbon zero rating, reflecting its minimal impact on the environment. This sustainable aspect is a significant benefit, aligning with modern construction efforts to reduce carbon footprints and contribute to environmental preservation. The use of mastic asphalt in projects supports sustainable construction practices without compromising on performance or durability.

7. Flexibility

One of the unique properties of mastic asphalt is its flexibility, particularly at lower temperatures where other materials might crack or become brittle. This flexibility allows it to accommodate minor structural movements and thermal expansion and contraction without compromising its integrity. This adaptability minimizes the risk of cracking and ensures the longevity of the waterproofing protection.

8. Easy to Maintain and Repair

The nature of mastic asphalt makes it exceptionally easy to maintain and repair. In the event of damage, repairs can be conducted quickly and effectively without the need for extensive work. This ease of maintenance ensures that the waterproofing layer can be kept in optimal condition with minimal disruption, further extending the life of the application.

9. 30% Grit Can Be Added for Extra Hardness

To enhance its durability, especially in areas subjected to intense vehicular pressure, up to 30% grit can be added to the mastic asphalt mix. This modification increases the mixture's hardness and abrasion resistance, making it even more suited to withstand the demands of high-traffic parking areas without compromising its waterproofing efficiency.

10. Time-Tested Solution Proven Over Decades

Mastic asphalt's reliability and effectiveness in waterproofing applications have been demonstrated through its long history of use. This time-tested solution has proven its worth over decades, offering a dependable choice for protecting structures from water damage. Its enduring presence in the construction industry speaks to its proven performance and the trust it has garnered from professionals.

11. Safety Features

Incorporating anti-slip finishes into the mastic asphalt mix can significantly improve pedestrian safety within public spaces. These finishes enhance traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially in wet conditions. This safety feature is particularly beneficial in areas with high foot traffic, making mastic asphalt a responsible choice for public safety.

12. Sound Reduction

Mastic asphalt contributes to creating a quieter environment within car parks by dampening noise pollution. Its dense composition absorbs sound, reducing the echo and reverberation of vehicular noise. This sound reduction feature is advantageous in urban areas or residential complexes, where minimizing noise pollution is a priority.

13. Aesthetic Versatility

Available in a range of colors and textures, mastic asphalt offers aesthetic versatility to match a variety of architectural styles or zoning requirements. This flexibility allows for creative design solutions, enabling architects and planners to achieve specific looks without compromising the material's functional benefits.

14. Environmental Impact

Beyond its carbon zero rating, the recyclability of mastic asphalt and the sustainable materials used in its production further minimize its environmental footprint. The ability to recycle and reuse mastic asphalt contributes to a reduction in waste and the consumption of virgin materials, underscoring its role in promoting environmental sustainability in construction practices.

How Do You Use Mastic Asphalt to Waterproof a Car Park?

Waterproofing a car park with mastic asphalt is a process that requires careful preparation, application, and finishing to ensure a durable and effective barrier against water ingress. The procedure typically involves several key steps to achieve optimal results:

  1. Surface Preparation: The first step involves preparing the car park surface to ensure it is clean, dry, and free of any debris, oils, or loose material. Any existing cracks or damage should be repaired, and the surface must be leveled to ensure proper drainage. This preparation is crucial for the adhesion of the mastic asphalt.
  2. Priming: A primer may be applied to the prepared surface to enhance the bond between the mastic asphalt and the car park substrate. The primer must be allowed to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
  3. Applying Mastic Asphalt: Mastic asphalt is heated until it becomes pourable and is then applied to the surface in layers. The material is spread evenly across the surface, paying special attention to ensure a uniform thickness. Specialized tools are used to compact and smooth the asphalt, ensuring a seamless application.
  4. Adding Grit for Traction: While the mastic asphalt is still warm, a layer of grit can be added to the surface to provide additional traction and durability, particularly important in high traffic areas or slopes within the car park to enhance safety and wear resistance.
  5. Cooling and Curing: After application, the mastic asphalt needs time to cool and cure properly. During this period, the car park should remain free from traffic to allow the material to set and achieve its full strength and waterproofing capabilities.
  6. Finishing Touches: Once the mastic asphalt has cured, final touches, such as line markings and signage, can be applied. These finishing touches are crucial for the functionality and safety of the car park.

Using mastic asphalt for waterproofing provides a robust, long-lasting solution that not only protects the structure from water damage but also offers a smooth, durable surface for vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Proper installation by experienced professionals is essential to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the waterproofing system, making mastic asphalt a reliable choice for car park waterproofing projects.

Using Mastic Asphalt To Waterproof Car Park Vehicle Access Ramps

Vehicle access ramps are subject to considerable down slope forces due to vehicle traction and braking. This makes it imperative to bond the mastic asphalt directly to the surface of the ramp.

The surface of the ramp should be tamped concrete with no joints. The tamp marks on the concrete should be across the slope of the ramp. These tamp marks provide a key for the asphalt to bind with.

The concrete needs to be as dry as possible. The reason for this is to prevent any blistering occurring in the asphalt. Once this is achieved a limited amount of high bond primer should be applied. With a vehicle access ramp in a car park no sheathing felt is used. A primary coat of roofing asphalt is applied upon the tamped concrete. This coat should be 15mm in thickness. Next a coat of 25-30mm of paving grade asphalt is applied (if the access ramp needs to endure heavier vehicles such as lorries 40mm paving grade asphalt will be necessary).

Car Park Repairs with Mastic Asphalt

The ease of car park repair when asphalt is used is one of the key reasons for it being the best choice of material for a car park which seeks to be cost effective whilst meetings the latest environmental standards. Asphalt being an easy material to repair gives you a vastly extended life span for your car park. This means the cost per year of service for your car park is significantly reduced. To maximise the life span of your car park it is important to take care of any problems when they first occur.

One of the best ways to make sure you stay on top of your car park repair needs is to schedule an annual maintenance survey. This survey is designed to identify small problems before they become larger ones. On a typical survey defects such as failing upstands, expansion joints and pothole repairs are likely to be found. Once completed you will have a good idea of your car park surface conditions and know what is the best course of action to take to get the maximum service from car park waterproofing.

How Can You Identify When A Car Park Needs Repairs?

It is not always easy to spot a problem developing in its early stages. For this reason, using an waterproofing expert to conduct an annual maintenance survey on your car park is recommended. The benefit of choosing an expert is they can identify problems and provide solutions before they develop into something more serious. Most of the time a serious problem is only noticed when there are extreme weather conditions, normally this leads to costly damage. You gain two major benefits from investing in a maintenance survey. Firstly, this can potentially save you vast sums of money. And secondly, it can add years to the lifespan of your asphalt car park which will vastly reduce your cost per year of service.

During an annual maintenance survey the most common type of defects identified include:

  • Small leaks. The most common causes of small leaks in a car park include asphalt bay joints opening up, upstands becoming stressed and cracking, oil contamination from vehicles and expansion joints becoming defective.
  • Damp patches on the ceiling or the walls of the car park. In most cases this problem is caused by a defective membrane on the level above.
  • Cracks or Blows on the car park deck. Cracks and blows are often caused by trapped moisture below the asphalt trying to gas out.
  • Impact Damage. Heavy objects may be dropped on the surface. Which can cause hairline cracks. As water seeps into these hairline cracks freezing temperatures can cause these cracks to grow larger. Also, water can get underneath the asphalt and cause blows as the moisture tries to escape.
  • Sun Damage. If the asphalt is exposed to sunlight damage such as slumping can occur. This is caused by the asphalt expanding and contracting with the different temperatures. The way to prevent this problem is with a coat of solar reflective paint.

How Asphalt Car Park Repairs are Performed

To conduct repairs to the mastic asphalt deck the process is as follows:

  1. Using the hot poultice method or a grinder the affected area is cut back with parallel lines either side of the affected area.
  2. The affected asphalt which may be up to 60mm deep is removed with a pick or a shovel.
  3. Heat is applied to the joints then cleaned and chipped.
  4. Waterproof layers now must be laid on a separating membrane with a break joint formed.
  5. The paving coat of asphalt is laid which contains 30% grit is laid.
  6. The asphalt is covered in sand and rubbed across the surface.
  7. All the joints are heated and finished neatly to create a ‘fusion’ union joint.

This process illustrates the cost-effective nature of car park repairs in mastic asphalt. Notice how just the affected area needs to be repaired without the need to take up and relay areas which are still performing well. Also, it causes minimal disruption to the rest of the car park allowing business to resume as usual for unaffected areas.

In nearly every instance repair is a better choice than a full replacement of the waterproofing. Hence, the consistently high demand for car park repair work.

Why Choose RJ Evans For Car Park Waterproofing and Repairs

• We have our own Asphalt Mixer this means a flame free laying of the mastic asphalt. Better consistency in the asphalt mixture meaning a more efficient installation process with a better overall finish.

• Vastly experienced asphalt team. We have operatives with more than 40 years’ experience.

• We provide a range of FREE quotations and solutions for all projects.

• Insurance backed Guarantees.

• Excellent Customer Support throughout project.

• Rated 5 out of 5 from our previous customers.

Get In Touch With RJ Evans Today

If you would like a quotation or any information on asphalt car park waterproofing or repair work, please get in touch with us or call us now on 01277 375 511.

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An Asphalt Car Park Inspection