Skip to main content

Why tar is preferred in parking lots

Short answer

Tar is preferred because it resists petrol, oil and diesel spills that would soften bitumen, so the surface remains hard. It also provides a waterproof, low-cost surface with good aggregate adhesion, and its temperature sensitivity is less problematic in low-speed parking lots.

Why is tar preferred in parking lot construction?

Tar is preferred in parking lots (and similar low-speed areas) mainly because:

  • It resists petrol, oil and diesel spills, which dissolve bitumen and asphalt, so the surface does not soften or break up.
  • It gives a hard, waterproof surface at low cost and sets quickly.
  • It adheres well to the aggregate, and low traffic speeds avoid its temperature problems.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

Related questions

All Civil Engineering Materials chapter 10 questions →