PREVENTING PAVEMENT "BIRDBATHS"

Birdbaths are slow-or nondraining collections of water on a parking lot or road pavement. A birdbath occurs when the pavement's cross-slope, defined as the fall between the high point and the drainage point of the pavement, is flatter than surface variations. Design is the most important consideration in whether or not a paved area has birdbaths. Construction issues, such as the condition of the surface to be paved, the geometry and the nature of the paving equipment, and the skill of the paving crew, are also important considerations. Sufficient slope and water outlet locations are critical in preventing birdbaths.