Winter weather can be tough on parking lots, causing hazards for vehicles and pedestrians alike. By taking a proactive approach, you can minimize damage and reduce safety risks. Here’s a comprehensive winter preparation checklist to ensure your parking lot is ready for the season:
1. Inspect and Repair Surface Damage
Check for Cracks & Potholes
Cold temperatures and moisture can cause existing cracks and potholes to expand, making them bigger problems later. Repair these issues now to prevent costly damage.
Sealcoat the Surface
A fresh layer of sealcoat adds protection against moisture and ice, extending the life of your parking lot.
2. Ensure Proper Drainage
Clean Drains & Gutters
Remove leaves, dirt, and debris to ensure proper drainage, which prevents standing water from freezing and causing dangerous icy patches.
Check Slope & Drainage Flow
Ensure your parking lot slopes away from buildings and that water drains efficiently to avoid ice buildup.
3. Line Striping and Signage
Refresh Faded Lines
Fresh, visible parking lines and directional arrows help guide traffic, especially when snow covers the ground.
Update Winter Signage
Consider adding temporary signs reminding drivers about slow speeds, snow pile locations, or any restricted areas during snow removal.
4. Prepare for Snow Removal
Arrange Snow Removal Services
Partner with a reliable snow removal company like Preferred Lawn Care to have plowing and de-icing services scheduled in advance.
Identify Snow Pile Locations
Designate areas where snow can be safely piled to avoid blocking visibility, pathways, or important access points.
5. Apply De-Icing Agents
Pre-Treat the Surface
Applying de-icing agents like salt or brine before a storm can prevent ice from bonding to the surface and reduce the need for excessive scraping.
Monitor Salt Supplies
Ensure you have enough de-icing materials for the season and arrange regular deliveries if needed.
6. Inspect Lighting
Check Lighting Fixtures
Ensure all parking lot lights are working properly to increase visibility during the shorter winter days and in snowy conditions.
Upgrade to LED Lighting
If needed, upgrade to energy-efficient LED lights that offer better illumination, especially during winter storms.
7. Mark Boundaries and Curbs
Install Snow Stakes
Mark curbs, boundaries, and any raised elements with snow stakes to guide snowplow drivers and prevent accidental damage.
Highlight Fire Hydrants & Utility Access Points
Make sure these essential areas are marked and visible in snowy conditions for easy access.
8. Prepare Emergency Kits
Stock Emergency Supplies
Keep a stash of sandbags, snow shovels, and cones on hand for quick ice and snow accumulation responses.
Set Up Communication Channels
Ensure your maintenance team or snow removal service can be easily reached during storms for prompt snow clearing or repairs.
Preparing your parking lot for winter can save you from costly repairs and reduce the risk of accidents.
Snow Removal Company in Muskegon, IN
Preferred Lawn Care offers a full range of commercial and residential snow removal services in Muskegon, Grand Haven, Whitehall, and the surrounding areas. We have the solutions for our customer’s needs to ensure alleys, driveways, streets, and sidewalks are safe, passable, clear, and accessible. Schedule your snow removal service proactively, ahead of the snowfalls.
Call Preferred Lawn Care at (231) 638-5368 for a free consultation!
