How to Build a Commercial Parking Lot

Providing adequate parking for customers and employees should be a top priority for business owners, not an afterthought.

You don’t want to lose out on sales because of a bad parking lot, or be mentioned in a “parking there is terrible!” conversation.

If you need to create a new commercial parking lot for your business, this helpful guide will walk you through all the necessary steps. Keep reading to learn more. 

Commercial Parking Lot Planning

First, you’ll want to determine how much area is available for the lot, and how many parking spaces you’d like to create to meet your requirements.

Keep in mind that the standard size of a public parking space is 9 by 19 feet.

Parking Lot Paving

Asphalt and concrete are the most common materials used, but there are newer, more eco-friendly options available today, such as permeable pavers.

Decide what thickness your pavement will need to be. This will depend on the weight of the vehicles using the lot. If you will have large trucks dropping off shipments regularly, consider a thicker pavement.

Drainage For Your Lot

You will want to consider drainage if your lot will be prone to heavy rains or pooling water. Permeable pavers and gravel lots drain more naturally, but might not be the desired surface type for every business.

Parking Lot Striping

and decide what the best angles for your spaces will be depending on your business. 45 and 60 degree angled spaces are ideal for businesses with heavy traffic, such as convenient stores.

Handicap spaces, curbs, ramps, and any other accessibility requirements should be considered in the layout process. Other features, such as loading zones or a drive-through, should also be factored in if needed.

Additional Features

Now that you have the basics for creating your lot out of the way, you’ll want to think about necessary, easy, and affordable additions to improve your lot.

Traffic Signage

Traffic signage will improve the safety and traffic flow of your lot. Speed limit, stop, and yield signs should be added where needed. Pedestrian walkways and speed bumps can also provide added safety.

Directional arrows and clear entrances and exits can greatly improve the flow of traffic in your parking lot as well.

Parking Lot Lighting

Providing adequate lighting will provide safety and comfort for your customers and employees once the sun goes down.

This can be tricky depending on your location, so consider solar parking lot lights as an alternative to traditional lighting. They are cost-efficient, easy to install, low maintenance, and can be placed anywhere. 

Parking Lot Maintenance

Parking lot repair and maintenance is an important part of keeping your new lot aesthetically appealing and functional.

Annual cleaning, joint sealing, and the repairing of cracks should be on your checklist each year. Also, remember to keep your striping updated with fresh paint when needed.

Your Perfect Parking Lot Awaits

Now you know how to create a wonderful commercial parking lot with optimal functionality. It’s time to improve your business and wow your customers and employees with a new lot!

And if you’d like to explore other helpful guides, like the one you’ve just read, check out our blog for more helpful tips.