Everything You Need To Know About Wheel Stops

Wheel stops are a safety feature in Australian car parks, helping to keep car parks organised and also protecting pedestrians and property. Also known as curb stops or parking blocks, if you’ve driven into any public car park, you would have seen them.

They’re small barriers that are typically placed at the end of parking spaces, keeping vehicles from hitting curbs, walls, and other vehicles. They’re usually made of concrete, rubber or recycled plastic, and there are different sizes and types available.

Whether you manage a small private parking lot or a large commercial parking facility, wheel stops are essential. If you’re not sure which design you need for your property, this article is for you.

The Role of Wheel Stops

Wheel stops have four main purposes. They:

·        Stop vehicles from protruding outside their designated parking space, which keeps pedestrians, other vehicles and even buildings safe.

·        Make the most of the parking spaces available, clearly defining where the parking spots are so people can correctly position their vehicles. It helps to maximise the space so more cars fit.

·        Keep property safe by preventing accidental collisions with curbs, walls and other structures. This not only keeps vehicles safe but also the property itself.

·        Reduces congestion by making it easier to enter and exit a specific car park. This means traffic will move faster, which is useful in high volume areas (such as shopping centres).

Types of Wheel Stops Available in Australia

Different wheel stop designs cater to different car park environments. Here are some of the common types of wheel stops in Australia:

Car Wheel Stops

Car wheel stops are found in nearly every parking area. They help indicate parking spaces, making it easier for drivers to park safely. Car wheel stops are generally made of durable materials such as concrete, rubber, or recycled plastic, and typically measure 1650mm in length and 100mm in height to meet Australian standards.

Truck Wheel Stops

Truck wheel stops are specifically designed to stop larger and heavier truck tyres. They can withstand the impact of truck tyres and heavy use in industrial and commercial areas. The dimensions are generally 150mm in height to accommodate larger tyres and 1250mm in length. You’ll usually find two of these installed next to each other to form a 2.5m long truck stop. These stops are usually made from stronger materials like steel or high-strength concrete so they can withstand heavier impact.

Wheel Chocks

These are single stoppers for wheels, and you’ll find them used in a range of settings, predominantly in the industrial industry, where they’re often used to safely stop vehicles and machinery. Rubber is the most common material used for wheel chocks because it is strong, durable and also lightweight.

Rumble Strips

You’ll find rumble strips used for speed moderation or lane division on highways, bike paths, driveways and car parks. They’re much lower than wheel stops, and they help slow down and control drivers/riders. They’re usually made from new and recycled rubber, and they’re easy to install.

Wheel Stops with Reflective Tape

If you have a lot of night traffic, like a gym or service station, having reflective tape on wheel stops will help improve nighttime visibility, improving safety in low light conditions. The reflective tape helps drivers see the stops better at night.

Recycled Plastic Wheel Stops

Recycled plastic wheel stops are becoming more popular as a durable and enviro-friendly material. They’re lightweight, easy to install and are a single-piece, moulded design that’s also durable. Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) are another type of recycled plastic wheel stop and they’re available in a range of colours.

Choosing the Right Wheel Stop for Your Australian Car Park

Wheel stops are used in a number of scenarios, including parking lots, garages, driveways, industrial sites, public buildings and temporary events. To make sure you choose the right wheel stop for your requirements, consider the following:

1. The surface of your car park: Concrete wheel stops need a solid base for secure installation. Rubber and steel can give you more flexibility, depending on the ground conditions.

2. Traffic volume and vehicle type: High-traffic areas or parking for heavy vehicles might require stronger wheel stop options.

3. Your budget: Rubber is usually a more cost-effective option compared to concrete wheel stops, without compromising on quality and functionality.

4. The design: Although it might not seem so important in comparison with safety, the design of your wheel stops can impact the aesthetics of your car park.

Installation and Maintenance

To keep your wheel stops functional for years to come:

·        Consider professional installation. This will ensure correct structural integrity and anchoring.

·        Regularly check your wheel stops often for cracks, corrosion, or loose fittings. Replace or repair these as needed.

·        Keep them clean. This keeps the dirt and debris out and will improve the whole look of the car park.

Australian Standards and Regulations for Wheel Stops

Understanding Australian standards is essential to ensure the safety and compliance of your car park. This includes:

AS/NZS 2890.1:2004

This Australian standard specifies the requirements for the wheel stop design, performance, and installation. Following these guidelines guarantees that legal safety requirements are met within your car park.

State and Local Regulations

There might also be state or local council regulations that you need to consider. Check with your local authorities to find out.

Wheel Stop Height and Length

Australian standards generally recommend wheel stops are 1650mm in length and 90–100mm in height. There are occasional variations allowed, depending on particular needs and approvals.

Partnering for a Safe and Efficient Car Park

For a well-organised car park, quality wheel stops are essential. By understanding what they are and how to choose correctly, you can provide a safe and functioning space for drivers and pedestrians. If you’re after superior-quality wheel stops, Safehub is the only choice.

Our high-quality wheel stops are compliant with Australian safety standards. They’re easy to install, offer high visibility, have a non-slip surface, and they’re cost-effective. Combined with our expert advice, Safehub ensures your car park remains safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing. Click here to find out more.