What's better? Above-Ground or Underground Parking Systems. (2024)

If you own a commercial building and are considering the best option for parking systems, your primary question is probably whether you should choose to invest in an above-ground parking structure or underground parking systems that provide added security and other features. The answer to this will vary, depending on your specific needs and what you expect out of a parking system.

Above-ground parking, also known as at-grade parking, is less expensive to construct when compared to an underground structure. However, because of the increasing lack of available real estate, the cost of above-ground parking continues to rise. This leads many people to seek better solutions, which can include utilizing vertical space by constructing an underground parking system for their commercial buildings.

Underground parking systems are also more aesthetically pleasing—since they’re underground, no giant parking towers are sticking out among the otherwise beautiful buildings in the area. While some above-ground garages span upwards of four or five levels, underground structures are usually limited to two levels because the costs to go further down below ground get quite exorbitant.

One way to maximize parking structure space, regardless of location, is to consider an automated parking system. This will allow you to fit more cars in the same amount of space than you would be able to fit if people self-parked. It provides more usable space for parking and the automated features make it easy for people to retrieve their vehicles when they’re ready to leave.

The best thing that you can do is to partner with parking solutions professionals early on in the concept and planning stages. That will help you maximize space and your parking situation as a whole and ensure that you get the most for your money with your new parking system, no matter where it is located.

January 12th, 2023|Articles|

What's better? Above-Ground or Underground Parking Systems. (2024)

FAQs

What's better? Above-Ground or Underground Parking Systems.? ›

If you want to maximize space and create a more streamlined aesthetic, underground parking may be the solution. Conversely, aboveground parking offers more visible accessibility and can be more straightforward to implement.

What is the most efficient type of parking? ›

Parking Stall Angle

Ideally, parking lots should be rectangular with parking on both sides of access aisles. For two-way traffic flow, parking spaces perpendicular (90 degrees) to the aisles provide the most efficient design. The efficiency decreases as the parking angle decreases.

Which parking is better, ground floor or basem*nt? ›

Stilt parking is generally considered better than basem*nt parking due to its accessibility and ease of entry and exit. Stilt parking is located on the ground floor, allowing for quicker access, whereas basem*nt parking requires navigating through ramps or elevators, which can be less convenient.

What are the cons of underground parking? ›

While underground garages are fine in dry areas, in humid regions, lack of ventilation can lead to cold and damp conditions, potentially damaging vehicles.

Is underground garage a good idea? ›

When compared to typical floor garages they have a tendency to cost more but make up for it as being a more out of the way space that won't upset your home's look – while also improving its value. Garage basem*nts are excellent areas but aren't necessarily for everyone.

Which type of parking is best? ›

Parallel parking may be as straightforward as parking in an open place if you master the basics well. The cars are parked along the entire length of the street. When parking or unparking the car, there is no rearward movement involved. As a result, it is the safest parking option in terms of accidents.

Which type of parking is usually more difficult? ›

Many motorists consider parallel parking the most difficult part of driving.

Why is underground parking better? ›

Underground parking systems, located beneath buildings or public spaces, are prized for their space efficiency and the ability to conceal vehicles from view. They feature protection from the weather, especially in areas prone to extreme climate conditions.

Is ground floor or top floor better? ›

Living on the ground floor will help you save on utility bills. The lower floors make for a less expensive air-conditioning bill in the summer as the cool air naturally reigns in lower locations. Also, you'll likely have less exposure to natural sunlight, which will keep your place cooler in the hot months of summer.

What is the best surface for parking? ›

Asphalt is typically the better option for parking lots and roads that have lower volumes of traffic.

What are the disadvantages of an underground system? ›

Cons:
  • More expensive to build and repair.
  • Fed by overhead lines. At some point, all underground power lines are connected to overhead lines, which makes them vulnerable to outages.
  • Susceptible to flooding.
  • Difficult to locate faults.
  • Limitations on voltages that can be buried underground.
  • Can be vulnerable to dig-ins.

Why doesn t america have underground parking? ›

The costs, geological considerations (like Florida's high water table), and older city designs have influenced the rate of adoption. However, with increasing land prices and the need for more sustainable city designs, underground parking is gradually finding its place in American urban planning.

What is the safest type of parking? ›

The purpose of reverse parking is to make the environment safer when the driver leaves the parking space. When leaving the parking space, the driver is able to see the surroundings more clearly.

Do underground parking garages have ventilation? ›

Enclosed or underground parking garages normally require Parking Garage Ventilation Systems to assist firefighting operations.

How to waterproof an underground garage? ›

The most effective and economical way of waterproofing a garage is with tanking slurry. Occasionally this product is referred to as cementitious tanking. Tanking slurry is a specially formulated mixture designed to stop water ingress. It either comes pre-mixed or as a powder to mixed on site with clean water.

What is the most efficient way to park cars? ›

Angle Parking: Angle parking is commonly found in parking lots and is characterized by parking the vehicle at an angle relative to the curb or parking space lines. This technique maximizes parking capacity and often allows for better visibility when exiting the parking spot.

How do you park efficiently? ›

Go to the middle center of your lane, then cut the wheel all the way to the left and pull into the space. Pull into the space slowly. Keep your steering wheel turned so your vehicle straightens out within the lines of the parking space. Make sure your vehicle is entirely within the parking space and doesn't overhang.

Which one is best parking? ›

Usually, 90-degree parking is considered the best as it can fit the maximum number of vehicles.

What are the three types of parking? ›

For most motorised vehicles, there are three commonly used arrangements of parking spaces—parallel parking, perpendicular parking, and angle parking. These are self-park configurations where the vehicle driver is able to access the parking independently.

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