In order to maintain the integrity of your paving structure, property managers and owners should keep an eye out for indicators of needed asphalt repair or replacement.

Alligator cracks

Cracking patterns that resemble alligator scales are known as alligator cracks. Visibility of these patterns are likely indications of the paved surface’s foundation deteriorating. This issue should be fixed as soon as it’s noticed to prevent cracks from worsening.

Fading

A once dark and rich-coloured asphalt unfortunately won’t retain such vibrancy over the years. Exposure to sunlight, natural wear and tear, and/or aging of the asphalt results in the surface beginning to look faded. When this happens, the pavement structure starts to lose its binding agents and oils leads, leaving behind a dull, brittle, and weakened surface.

Drainage issues

A smooth asphalt surface should permit excess water to easily run off without puddles remaining. Poor drainage causes early pavement distresses leading to driving problems and structural failures. With improper drainage, water can collect in the low spots on your commercial property, causing further damage to your asphalt surface.

Warping

Heavy vehicle traffic and/or an insufficient or compromised base can cause your asphalt surface to appear wavy or warped, which can result from improper installation.

The process of repair

Whether you are looking to repair, replace, or newly install a paving structure, there are more indications of a well done, or poorly done, paving job than meets the eye. While the work may look like it’s done well cosmetically, there are various aspects to keep an eye on that may indicate otherwise.

• Good foundation – A solid subgrade and a strong aggregate base are crucial for all new paving surfaces. This means that any loose, soft, wet dirt needs to be replaced with a compacted rock base to stabilize the earth and properly support the pavement above.
• Seamless transition areas – The new layer of asphalt should blend smoothly with the old coating, with smooth transitions between the new pavement and other paving surfaces, curbs, or drains. The presence of bumps can significantly affect the ride quality of the road. A well-laid paving surface should have no bumps as cars or trucks roll over.
• Thickness of overlay – The heavier the traffic, the thicker the asphalt layer should be. Inaccurate thickness can lead to premature cracking and poor stability beneath the surface. Paving experts should be able to easily evaluate your paving needs and provide an optimal solution.
• Water drainage – Water may be the biggest enemy to asphalt. It has the power to erode the structure quickly. All new asphalt should have a good slope and good drainage performance to keep water running off and never pooling on, or nearby the surface.

Giving your commercial lot’s asphalt surface a long life requires timely assessments to recognize areas of needed maintenance. With these tips in mind, commercial property owners can be aware of when to repair their asphalt paving and asses when the job is done well. Ensure you get the right team of paving experts who can get the project right the first time.

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However, while maintenance is at the top of your priorities, the unpredictability of weather conditions can pose some challenges when it comes to keeping your commercial property in top shape. But do not fret! Below is an easy guideline with some tips on how to keep your business environment safe and prepared for whatever mother nature throws its way.

Regularly inspect your commercial property’s exterior

As a significant investment, going to great lengths to maintain the state of your property is vital. Regular inspections should be done with high attentiveness to any potential damage or deterioration of your commercial building. A proper commercial building inspection will reveal the real condition of your property as well as the expenses for repairs. This allows you to fix any issues before they get worse with the impending climate conditions, further preserving your asset.

Check for leaks

There are many factors that can impact your property, but water damage is one of the most common and costliest types of commercial property damage. They account for 48 per cent of insurance claims according to the Canadian Institute of Actuaries, and can cause more than $2 million in losses. Once a pipe bursts, it can cost your business thousands of dollars if left unattended. This can also lead to temporarily closing your business, resulting in lost revenue. Frequently checking for leaks in your facility to fix right away prevents costlier issues arising due to structural damage and the growth of harmful mould.

Safety

In the case of an unexpected emergency, repairing property defects like unclear markings that indicate emergency exit routes, damaged surfaces, and cluttered walkways lessens the chances of hazards developing. This improves the safety and efficiency of your property.

Get the right insurance

While the preparation for possible damage is important, there is still a chance that calamity will occur on your property. With the increasing costs of claims for property damage or losses due to severe weather quadrupling over the last decade, it is crucial to obtain and maintain the proper insurance. Getting a suitably devised business insurance policy can help to repair or replace your damaged or destroyed equipment after a covered loss.

Commercial buildings are vulnerable to the effects of a changing climate. It is necessary for building owners and property managers to take the right steps for preparation against potential weather damage, extending the life of the property. Hiring the right professionals goes a long way to help ensure weatherproofing your commercial property is done correctly.

The post 5 ways to protect your commercial property against weather damage first appeared on Fort York Paving.

Now is the time to be proactive, instead of reactive towards any potential problems that may arise as you get your property ready for the summer. Follow this checklist to help keep your commercial property in top condition this summer so you can better serve your customers, employees, and community.

Landscaping

It’s important to start cleaning up any debris that clutter your yard so you can maintain the outdoor space of your business to ensure presentability. This adds to the welcoming feel of the property, and its safety as any potential hazards in walking areas are removed.

Roof inspection

Hot summers can be very problematic for commercial roofing systems. The combination of humidity and heat with intense sunshine leads to the breakdown of the roof’s integrity. This can lead to further damages if they’re not checked and appropriately maintained, becoming costly issues to fix as they grow worse. Regular maintenance is important for roofing systems to keep your building in top shape.

Lighting

With warmer weather comes more people spending time outside. It’s vital to ensure your outdoor lighting systems are operational to improve your property’s safety and security.

Surface inspection

Double-checking the exterior of your building and its surroundings (i.e., patios, decks, sidewalks, etc.) is always a good idea to guarantee your property’s safety. Some key things to look for include cracks, holes, discolouration; essentially any issues that show signs of needed surface repair.

Pest control

Pests are often a common problem during summer months. Having them present on your property can both deter visitors and damage its structural integrity. Inspect your property for any rodents, insects, and other invaders, calling the necessary professionals to have them removed.

HVAC maintenance

Keeping all occupants comfortable and cool during summer months is an important matter, one that can be achieved with an HVAC system in good working condition. Overtime, HVAC systems can become clogged with debris and dust, affecting its efficiency. Make sure your HVAC system is properly maintained to keep it at its top performance level when it’s needed most.

Clean gutters

Remove any leaves, trash, or other debris that made its way into your gutter during rainy summer days. This helps to prevents any water blockage affecting your commercial building and causing water damage or mold growth.

Keep your commercial property on top of things this summer by taking the time to do vital upkeep. Now’s a better time than ever to ensure your property looks and operates its best.

The post Getting your commercial property ready for the summer – maintenance checklist first appeared on Fort York Paving.

E-commerce demand

The steady rise of e-commerce activity is driving intense demand for facilities that can store and manage inventory. This is just one of the reasons the Globe and Mail’s Commercial Real Estate Outlook for 2020 claimed the industrial category was the “darling” of 2019’s real estate community and poised for growth in the year ahead. Per the report,

“It’s all about beds and sheds,” said Frank Magliocco, a partner, real estate and assurance for PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada, adding, “Beds being multifamily and sheds being industrial. That’s where they put their money.”

Short supply

E-commerce may be conducted in the virtual environment, but fulfilling orders requires an abundance of physical infrastructure. As more and more organizations take their offerings online, the space to store, manage, and facilitate orders in Canada is shrinking. According to Cushman & Wakefield’s 2019 Canadian Industrial Real Estate report, the national availability rate for industrial space dipped to 3.1% (the lowest on record) as of this time last year, while availability rates in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal – the top three most active industrial markets – fell to equally historic lows.

“Companies are reinventing themselves to serve growing online demand, and there’s huge pressure for fast last-mile delivery. This has detonated record demand for well-located warehouse and logistics space – and supply can’t keep up,” reports, Stuart Barron, National Director of Research with Cushman & Wakefield, adding, “The bottom line is whether you’re leasing or buying, you’re going to find an extreme scarcity of product and face sticker shock.”

Rising rents

Heated demand for industrial space is having a predictable impact on rental rates. According to Scott Addison, President of Brokerage Services for Colliers Canada and a contributor to the Globe and Mail’s 2020 CRE outlook: “The average rental rate is $9 a square foot [in Toronto] … For years, people didn’t think Toronto would break out of the $5 a square-foot range.”

Bigger accommodations

When it comes to fulfilling e-commerce appetites, size matters. As such, warehouses are expanding in square footage, as demonstrated by the construction of Oxford Properties’ Riverbend Business Park in Burnaby, BC, the country’s first multi-story industrial building.

Smarter operations

The digital revolution is in full-swing, and with it, the continued adoption of automation, artificially-intelligence, Internet of Things technologies, and cloud-based computing – tools which are being embedded within warehouses and facilities to help keep pace with country-wide demand.

Big things are taking place in the industrial real estate sector. Stay focused on what counts, and trust Fort York Paving to take care of your pavement emergencies, repairs, and maintenance.

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