What is the recommended slope percentage for parking areas?

The recommended slope percentage for parking areas is typically in the range of 1.5% to 5%. This slope is ideal for facilitating proper drainage of water from the parking surface while ensuring that the area remains accessible and safe for vehicles and pedestrians. A slope that is too steep can create issues with vehicle control, making it difficult for drivers to enter and exit parking spaces safely. Additionally, a slope that is within this range helps to reduce water pooling, minimizing potential hazards related to ice formation and improving the overall longevity of the pavement.

While steeper slopes might be appropriate in conjunction with specific design considerations, such as in areas requiring heavy runoff management, they can introduce significant challenges related to accessibility and usability. A slope of 0% to 1% would not provide adequate drainage, leading to water accumulation, while slopes of 5% to 10% or 10% to 15% may be too steep for safe vehicular movement and could become problematic during adverse weather conditions. Thus, the choice of a slope between 1.5% and 5% strikes the right balance between drainage efficiency and safety for users.