What are Parking Concrete Blocks?
How many times have you ever pulled into a parking space, not paying attention and bumped to a stop on that block at the end of the space? Have you ever given thanks to these neat little devices, or is it difficult to thank something you don’t know the name of? What is the cement block in a parking lot called? Let’s find more about these simple but effective devices and the surprising benefits they bring to your parking lot.
The Many Names for Parking Blocks
Parking blocks have many different names. Depending on the manufacturer and region, you can call them parking blocks, parking stops, curb stops, and more. No matter the name, the parking block is the concrete or rubber stop installed at the head of parking spaces across the country.
You don’t often think about parking stops until you run into one and thank it for saving your vehicle, but there’s more to these simple devices than meets the eye. Let’s learn more about the versatile parking block and what high-quality parking stops can do for your parking lot.
What Can Parking Cement Blocks Do for Your Parking Lot?
Safety – The last thing you want is someone rear-ending someone in your parking lot because it’s in such poor condition or someone driving straight through a tiny parking stop into your retaining wall. Properly maintained parking blocks keep you safe, keeps the drivers in your lot safe, and keeps your building safe. Don’t leave your parking lot to chance; install high-quality parking blocks.
Organization – Properly installed and planned parking stops organize the flow of traffic in and out of your parking structure. Correctly laid parking stops will keep vehicles from cutting others off, park everyone in organized spaces, and bring organization into a chaotic world. Building owners could be held liable for any fenders benders resulting from poorly constructed parking lots and layouts, so use a professional to make sure your parking blocks are appropriately laid out.
Look Professional
Have you ever pulled into a parking lot that had crumbling, missing, or paint-chipped parking blocks? What was the initial impression of that business? A building’s exterior and condition are an advertisement for the businesses inside, and if that exterior is falling apart, you get a poor first impression. Crumbling parking lots say we can’t fix our parking lot, so how could we help you?
High-quality, brightly painted, and professionally installed parking lots look great and will give customers of your business a great first impression. It may not be obvious, but a parking block could make or break your tenant’s next big sale. We can also help with parking lot pavement types and their fixes.
Cement vs. Rubber Parking Block
If you’ve decided your parking lot needs an upgrade with new parking blocks, you have a big decision in cement vs. rubber parking blocks. Which one is right for you?
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cement Parking Blocks
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cement Parking Blocks
- Affordable – Cement parking lots are less expensive than rubber parking blocks and the more economical option if you have several blocks to install.
- Construction Headache – Cement blocks are more labor-intensive and may shut down portions of your parking lot while they’re being installed. If you can’t re-route your parking or don’t enjoy construction, you’ll want to choose rubber parking blocks.
- Durability – Concrete and cement parking blocks are durable but will age faster than rubber parking blocks. Snow, ice, harsh impacts, and other elements will chip away at concrete blocks over time, leaving most concrete parking blocks useless within 10 to 15 years.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Rubber Parking Blocks
- Strong – Rubber is surprisingly stronger than concrete, at least when it comes to parking blocks. Rubber can bend but doesn’t break when smacked by a vehicle and doesn’t suffer the same wear from the elements compared to concrete.
- It’s Also Affordable – Rubber blocks are more expensive than concrete blocks, but you should consider the useful life of the parking block too. Cement parking blocks are cheaper out of the gate but must be replaced more often rubber blocks.
- Long-Lasting – Rubber blocks are the clear pick in longevity. Rubber parking blocks can take a beating, handle nasty snow and ice, and look great for many years. Rubber parking blocks will degrade quicker in harsh environments, but so will cement parking blocks.
Do Right with Professional Parking Blocks
Don’t leave yourself liable for damage from cars running into your structure or running into each other – install great looking high-quality parking blocks. Both rubber and cement parking blocks provide safety, organization, and make your lot look more professional for both tenants and visitors.
They’re affordable, they work, and there’s no reason you shouldn’t look at your parking block situation before there’s an accident. Call Colorado Pavement Solutions to get quotes on different parking stops and make your lot safer today.
Most Important FAQs
Q1: What are the parking lot stoppers called?
Parking lot stoppers are commonly referred to as “wheel stops” or “parking bumpers.” They are also known as “parking curbs” or “car stops.” These are concrete or rubber blocks placed at the front of a parking space to prevent vehicles from parking too far forward.
Q2: What are the concrete parking things called?
The concrete elements used in parking lots are typically called “concrete parking blocks” or “concrete wheel stops.” They serve as physical barriers to define parking spaces and protect structures like walls and curbs from vehicle damage.
Q3: How to block a parking space?
To block a parking space, you can use various methods. One common method is to install concrete parking blocks (wheel stops) or bollards to restrict access physically. You can also use signage designating the space as reserved or off-limits. In some cases, temporary barriers like traffic cones or ropes can be used.
Q4: How to park properly?
To park properly, follow these steps:
- Find an available parking space.
- Approach it slowly and signal your intent to park.
- Align your vehicle within the designated parking lines.
- Ensure you leave enough space in front and behind your vehicle.
- Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake.
- Check for any posted parking regulations or restrictions.
- Exit your vehicle safely, ensuring it is securely parked.
Q5: How to paint a senior parking spot?
Painting a senior parking spot is a common tradition in some schools. To do this:
- Obtain permission from the school or relevant authority.
- Clean the parking spot thoroughly.
- Use masking tape to mark the design or pattern you want to paint.
- Choose appropriate paint colors and paint within the taped area.