Summer Maintenance Checklist For Asphalt Parking Lots In South Carolina

As summer temperatures soar in Myrtle Beach, SC, your asphalt parking lot faces more than just increased foot and vehicle traffic—it also takes on direct sunlight, UV radiation, heavy rain, humidity, and even salt air from the coast. These environmental factors can significantly shorten the lifespan of your asphalt surface if not properly managed. That’s why proactive summer maintenance is critical for property owners who want to protect their investment and ensure a safe, smooth parking lot for years to come. To help you stay on top of seasonal upkeep, we’ve created a comprehensive summer maintenance checklist tailored specifically for South Carolina homeowners and property managers.

Summer Maintenance Checklist For Asphalt Parking Lots In South Carolina

Why Summer Maintenance Matters in Myrtle Beach

Unlike cooler inland areas, Myrtle Beach experiences a mix of high heat, salty ocean air, intense humidity, and frequent summer storms. This combination can lead to:

• Accelerated oxidation and fading
• Softening and rutting of asphalt surfaces
• Moisture intrusion through cracks
• Erosion of the subbase from poor drainage
• Vegetation growth in pavement joints

As a result, neglected parking lots in this region are more likely to crack, pothole, and lose their structural integrity earlier than expected. Regular inspections and timely care are essential to maximize longevity and safety.

Key Elements of Your Summer Maintenance Plan

Inspect for Surface Damage

Your first step is a thorough visual inspection. Walk the entire parking lot and look for signs of distress such as cracking, surface erosion, faded striping, puddling, and minor depressions. In hot climates like Myrtle Beach, early oxidation or UV degradation will show up as color fading or brittle surface texture. Cracks should never be ignored. Even small ones can allow water to seep into the subbase. With frequent rain in the region, these cracks can quickly expand and create potholes or foundational damage.

If you see any signs of:

• Alligator cracking
• Linear or edge cracks
• Surface bubbling or unraveling
• Potholes or dips

…it’s time to consult a paving professional for repair or sealing.

Schedule Sealcoating (If Due)

Sealcoating is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your asphalt surface, especially during summer when UV exposure is at its peak. This protective layer shields the pavement from:

• Ultraviolet light (which causes oxidation)
• Water intrusion from rainfall
• Fuel, oil, and chemical spills

If it has been more than 2–3 years since your last sealcoat, summer is a great time to have it reapplied. Be sure to schedule sealcoating during a dry stretch of weather and allow time for the material to cure before reopening the lot to vehicles.

Clean Up Debris and Surface Contaminants

Between thunderstorms, high foot traffic, and the occasional beachside wind, it’s common for Myrtle Beach parking lots to accumulate dirt, sand, twigs, leaves, and litter. These materials not only make the lot look untidy, but they also:

• Trap moisture on the asphalt surface
• Clog drainage systems
• Mask minor damage from view

Routine sweeping and power washing (especially after a rainstorm or busy holiday weekend) will help preserve the look and function of your lot while making it easier to spot new issues. Additionally, be sure to clean up oil, gasoline, or other automotive fluid spills as soon as they appear. These chemicals can eat through asphalt and weaken its binding agents.

Check Drainage and Gutters

In the summer, rainfall can arrive in heavy bursts. Standing water on your asphalt is never a good sign. It softens the pavement surface, contributes to cracking, and undermines the gravel or sand base below. Walk your lot after a storm and see if water is draining properly. If you notice pooling in any areas, your lot may have an improper slope, blocked stormwater grates, or deteriorating gutters. Fixing drainage issues quickly can prevent major repairs in the future. This might involve:

• Cleaning out clogged grates
• Adjusting downspouts or splash pads
• Regrading low areas
• Installing trench drains or catch basins

Refresh Pavement Markings and Signage

Summer is an ideal time to repaint any worn or faded line striping, directional arrows, or handicap symbols. In a sunny environment like Myrtle Beach, striping paint can fade faster than expected, reducing visibility and compliance with ADA regulations. Clear markings not only make your lot look newer—they also improve traffic flow, safety, and overall usability. While you’re at it, check that all signage (like speed limits, stop signs, fire lanes, and visitor parking) is clean, visible, and properly mounted. Damaged or missing signage should be repaired or replaced right away.

Edge Maintenance and Vegetation Control

Plants and weeds that grow along the edges of your parking lot or up through cracks may seem harmless at first—but they can cause major structural issues if ignored. Roots can widen existing cracks and force the pavement to lift or shift over time. During summer, growth is fast and aggressive. Make sure to:

• Trim grass and bushes along the perimeter
• Remove weeds growing in or near cracks
• Consider applying herbicide if vegetation becomes recurring

If root systems are damaging the lot, you may need to remove trees or reinforce your pavement with edging solutions.

Plan for Regular Maintenance Moving Forward

Once your summer inspection and cleanup are complete, don’t forget to create a long-term maintenance calendar. Keeping a record of:

• Inspection dates
• Crack sealing and patching jobs
• Sealcoating applications
• Line striping updates

…will help you plan ahead and budget appropriately for future repairs.

We recommend setting reminders for:

• Seasonal inspections (spring and summer)
• Sealcoating every 2–3 years
• Restriping every 1–2 years
• Annual drainage inspections

Contact Asphalt Today For Residential Paving Services In Myrtle Beach, SC

Your asphalt parking lot is a major investment—and it deserves top-notch care to stay in great shape. At Asphalt Today, we provide expert residential paving and maintenance services designed for Myrtle Beach‘s coastal conditions. From preventative maintenance like sealcoating and crack repair to full resurfacing and drainage improvements, our team has the tools and experience to get the job done right. Don’t wait until the summer sun and storms take their toll. Let us help you keep your asphalt parking lot strong, safe, and visually appealing all season long. Contact Asphalt Today for a free consultation and discover why Myrtle Beach residents trust us with their pavement needs. Call us now or visit our website to schedule your summer service!