Common Asphalt Pavement Issues South Carolina Homeowners Should Know And How To Fix Them
Free Estimates | No Up-Front Deposit Required | Family Owned & OperatedAsphalt is a durable and cost-effective paving solution for many South Carolina homeowners. However, even the toughest pavement can wear down over time—especially in a place like Myrtle Beach, SC, where heat, humidity, salt air, and seasonal storms can quickly take their toll. If you own a home in the area, understanding the most common types of asphalt pavement damage and knowing how to fix them can save you from expensive repairs and maintain the beauty and safety of your property. This guide covers the most frequent asphalt problems homeowners face in the Myrtle Beach area and offers professional tips on how to identify and address them early.
7 Common Asphalt Pavement Issues South Carolina Homeowners Should Know And How To Fix Them
1. Cracks
What It Looks Like:
Cracks appear as thin, often jagged lines in your asphalt surface. They may be small at first, but they can widen and deepen over time—especially if water gets into them and expands during temperature fluctuations.
Why It Happens:
- Thermal expansion and contraction
- Poor drainage
- Water infiltration
- Heavy vehicles
- Tree root growth under the pavement
How to Fix It:
Small cracks (under 1/4 inch wide) can be sealed using DIY crack filler from a home improvement store. For wider or deeper cracks, it’s best to call a professional paving contractor. Sealcoating can also prevent cracks from forming by adding a protective layer against UV rays and moisture.
2. Potholes
What It Looks Like:
A pothole is a depression or cavity in your asphalt surface, typically caused when water seeps into a crack, weakens the base, and collapses under pressure from vehicles.
Why It Happens:
- Repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Standing water
- Traffic pressure on weakened areas
- Poor subbase compaction during original installation
How to Fix It:
Temporary pothole repair kits are available, but for lasting results, it’s recommended to have the area professionally cut, cleaned, and patched with hot-mix asphalt. Prompt repair is essential—potholes can grow rapidly and pose tripping hazards and tire damage.
3. Alligator Cracking
What It Looks Like:
Named after its resemblance to alligator skin, this type of cracking forms a web of interconnected cracks, often in areas that bear frequent traffic or have a failing base.
Why It Happens:
- Inadequate foundation or base layer
- Heavy or repeated vehicle traffic
- Water damage weakening the substructure
- Aging asphalt with brittle binder
How to Fix It:
Surface patching may temporarily hide alligator cracking, but the real fix involves removing the damaged section, repairing the base layer, and laying down new asphalt. Professional evaluation is key to determining the severity.
4. Raveling
What It Looks Like:
The surface of the asphalt appears rough or coarse, and you may see loose gravel or aggregate material coming off the pavement.
Why It Happens:
- Poor installation or compaction
- Oxidation of asphalt binder
- Weathering from sunlight and water
- Heavy vehicle use on aged surfaces
How to Fix It:
For minor raveling, applying a sealcoat can help lock in remaining materials and restore appearance. For extensive damage, resurfacing may be required. Regular sealcoating every 2–3 years in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach helps prevent this issue.
5. Depressions and Low Spots
What It Looks Like:
Uneven areas in your driveway or parking space where water collects after rain. These spots often worsen over time and create poor drainage conditions.
Why It Happens:
- Improper installation or subbase settling
- Traffic-induced deformation
- Poor drainage design
- Soil erosion beneath the pavement
How to Fix It:
Small depressions can be filled with patching material and compacted. For long-term correction, the area may need to be excavated, base re-compacted, and repaved. Adding or fixing drainage systems can prevent future issues.
6. Fading and Discoloration
What It Looks Like:
Your driveway no longer has that rich black finish and appears dull or gray. This is a visual cue that your asphalt is aging and likely drying out.
Why It Happens:
- UV exposure from strong sunlight
- Oxidation over time
- Weather and chemical spills
- Lack of sealcoating maintenance
How to Fix It:
This is more of an aesthetic and preventative issue than structural. Applying a fresh coat of sealant will not only restore color but also prevent further damage from sun and water exposure. Think of sealcoating as sunscreen for your driveway.
7. Edge Cracking
What It Looks Like:
Cracks form along the edges of the pavement, often where it meets soil or turf.
Why It Happens:
- Poor support along the edges
- Water washing away adjacent soil
- Vehicle tires running off the edge of the pavement
How to Fix It:
Cracks should be cleaned and sealed promptly. In some cases, the shoulder of the pavement may need to be built up with gravel or compacted soil to add stability and prevent future edge failure.
Preventative Maintenance: Your Best Line of Defense
To reduce the likelihood of these problems and extend the life of your driveway, Myrtle Beach homeowners should follow these best practices:
- Sealcoat regularly (every 2–3 years) to protect from sun, salt, and water damage.
- Inspect your driveway seasonally, especially after hurricanes or storms.
- Fix small issues immediately before they grow into major problems.
- Keep the surface clean from oil, leaves, debris, and standing water.
- Improve drainage around your property to direct water away from the driveway.
Living near the coast in South Carolina means dealing with unique environmental challenges—don’t wait until the damage is too severe. With a little preventive care and professional help, your driveway can remain strong and attractive for decades.
Contact Asphalt Today for Residential Sealcoating and Maintenance Services in Myrtle Beach, SC
At Asphalt Today, we understand the specific challenges Myrtle Beach homeowners face when it comes to asphalt pavement. Our team is equipped with the expertise and local knowledge to handle everything from minor repairs to full resurfacing and preventative maintenance. Don’t wait until small cracks turn into major headaches. Whether you need sealcoating, crack repair, or expert advice, we’re here to help. Protect your investment and enhance your home’s curb appeal by scheduling a consultation with our experienced crew. Contact Asphalt Today for a free estimate or visit our website to learn more about our residential asphalt services in Myrtle Beach, SC. Let us help you keep your driveway in excellent shape all year long!