Scheduling parking lot paving in Columbus isn’t as simple as picking a date and hoping for the best. A lot can go wrong if you’re not prepared.
Whether you’re managing a lot in German Village or overseeing commercial property near OSU’s campus, avoiding common scheduling mistakes can save you time, money, and major headaches.
Let’s walk through 10 mistakes you definitely want to steer clear of when planning your next paving project in Columbus, OH.
Key Takeaways
- Spring and fall give people in Columbus the best shot at smooth parking lot paving without weather ruining it.
- Big events like OSU football games can cause huge paving delays around Columbus if people forget to check calendars.
- Skipping required permits in Columbus can shut down paving projects fast and leave people with big fines to pay.
- Poor drainage design in flat parts of Columbus can flood lots and wreck asphalt way sooner than people expect.
- People who plan ahead for future lot maintenance in Columbus will keep their pavement looking good way longer.
1. Ignoring Seasonal Weather Patterns
In Columbus, spring and fall offer the most reliable paving conditions, thanks to moderate temperatures and fewer rainstorms. Trying to pave during the heavy rains of April or the freezing temps that start hitting around November can ruin the asphalt curing process.
Always schedule during dry periods with consistent daytime highs between 50°F and 85°F to get the best results.
2. Not Accounting for OSU Football Season and Local Events
If you’re paving near the Ohio State campus or areas like Short North during football season or major events like the Columbus Arts Festival, you’re asking for logistical nightmares.
Increased traffic, road closures, and restricted access can delay your project or frustrate tenants and customers. Always check the city’s event calendar before locking in your paving dates.
3. Skipping the Permit Process
In Columbus, the city often requires right-of-way permits for commercial paving jobs, especially near busy areas like High Street or Bethel Road. Failing to secure proper permits can halt your project midstream, leading to fines or legal trouble.
Always double-check local requirements before bringing in the pavers.
4. Underestimating Traffic Management Needs
If your parking lot serves businesses near popular spots like Polaris Fashion Place or downtown’s Gay Street District, simply blocking off parking without a plan is not an option. Clear signage, effective communication, and temporary access routes are crucial to avoid disruptions.
Neglecting these steps can create confusion for visitors and customers, damaging your business’s reputation.
Incorporating regular pavement maintenance into your strategy can also help minimize future disruptions and keep your lot in top condition.
5. Failing to Evaluate the Subgrade Condition
In Columbus, clay-heavy soils common in neighborhoods like Clintonville and Hilliard can cause serious subgrade instability.
If you don’t properly assess and prepare the base before paving, you risk early cracking and potholes. Invest in a thorough subgrade evaluation to prevent costly repairs down the road.
6. Choosing the Lowest Bid Without Question
Budget is important, but in areas like Upper Arlington or Bexley, where property values are high and appearances matter, cutting corners on asphalt paving quality can cost you more long term. Some contractors offer cheap prices by using inferior materials or skipping critical steps.
Always vet companies thoroughly and ask about materials, project timelines, and warranties.
7. Overlooking Drainage Considerations
Columbus receives an average of 40 inches of rain annually, so inadequate drainage can quickly transform your parking lot into a mini-lake.
In flatter areas like Dublin or Reynoldsburg, improper grading can lead to standing water, asphalt erosion, and potential liability issues. To avoid these problems, make sure your paving plan incorporates proper slope and drainage solutions.
Additionally, addressing crack filling as part of your maintenance plan can help prevent water from seeping into cracks, further protecting your lot from damage.
8. Not Communicating Clearly with Tenants or Customers
In busy shopping centers around Morse Road or strip malls in Grove City, sudden parking disruptions can confuse and irritate customers. Always give clear, advanced notice about paving schedules, expected closures, and alternative parking options.
Good communication avoids conflict and keeps the business flowing during the project.
9. Overbooking Tight Project Timelines
Trying to squeeze paving into a one-day window just because you’re eager to reopen is a recipe for problems. Asphalt needs time to cool and set, and rushing the job can lead to premature surface failures.
Especially during humid Columbus summers, giving the pavement proper curing time is essential for long-term durability.
10. Forgetting About Future Maintenance Needs
In Columbus neighborhoods like Westerville or New Albany, where curb appeal matters, smart property owners think beyond the initial paving. Forgetting to plan for future sealcoating, crack filling, and lot striping can shorten your lot’s lifespan dramatically.
Build regular maintenance into your schedule from the start to protect your investment.
Keep Your Columbus Paving Project Smooth and Stress-Free
Scheduling parking lot paving in Columbus, OH, doesn’t have to be a gamble.
At Sheedy Sealcoating, Inc., we specialize in helping local businesses navigate every step of the process—from timing around OSU game days to handling drainage on those tricky Columbus clay soils. We understand the quirks of neighborhoods like Clintonville, Short North, and beyond because we live and work here, too.
If you’re ready to save yourself the hassle, trust our expert team to deliver results that last. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your lot looking its best—without the stress!
