How To Protect Your Driveway This Summer From The Heat

Summer in Myrtle Beach, SC means blue skies, beach trips, and long, hot days. But while the sunshine might be perfect for outdoor fun, it’s not so friendly to your driveway. The intense heat, combined with high humidity and UV radiation, can cause significant wear and tear on asphalt surfaces. Without the right protection, summer weather can lead to cracking, fading, soft spots, and even potholes in your asphalt driveway. Luckily, there are several effective ways to protect your driveway and keep it looking and performing its best throughout the summer months. Whether you’re a homeowner or property manager in the Grand Strand area, following these tips can help you extend the life of your asphalt surface and save money on costly repairs down the road.

Answering The Question: How To Protect Your Driveway This Summer From The Heat?

Why Summer Heat is Hard on Asphalt

Asphalt is a flexible paving material, made primarily of aggregates and bitumen (a petroleum-based binder). When exposed to high temperatures, especially during Myrtle Beach summers where it’s common to see 90°F+ days, the surface can become soft and more vulnerable to damage. Combine that with humidity, salt-laden coastal air, and UV rays, and you’ve got a recipe for premature pavement deterioration.

Here’s how the heat specifically affects asphalt:

• Softening: Hot temperatures can soften asphalt, causing it to warp under the weight of parked vehicles.
• Oxidation: Prolonged UV exposure breaks down the binder that holds asphalt together, leading to a brittle surface that cracks more easily.
• Expansion and Contraction: Heat causes asphalt to expand. As temperatures fluctuate, the repeated movement can cause stress cracks over time.
• Moisture Trapping: Humidity and rain—both common in Myrtle Beach—can seep into cracks, weakening the subbase when combined with extreme temperatures.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at how you can proactively protect your driveway during the heat of summer.

Top Tips to Protect Your Driveway from Summer Heat

1. Sealcoat Every 2-3 Years

Sealcoating is one of the best ways to protect your asphalt driveway from heat damage. A sealcoat is a thin layer of protective material applied over the top of the asphalt, acting like sunscreen for your pavement. It shields against UV rays, water infiltration, oil stains, and oxidation. In Myrtle Beach, where summer heat and salty air are constant, sealcoating should be done every two to three years. Spring or early summer is the ideal time to seal your driveway—before temperatures reach their peak and while conditions are dry.

2. Keep It Clean

Debris like leaves, pine needles, and sand are more than just an eyesore. When left on your driveway, they can trap moisture and heat, accelerating surface wear. Additionally, organic matter can hold acidic compounds that eat away at the surface over time. Sweep your driveway regularly, especially after storms or landscaping work. A clean surface allows better airflow, reduces moisture retention, and improves the effectiveness of sealcoating.

3. Address Small Cracks Immediately

One of the fastest ways for a driveway to deteriorate is by ignoring minor cracks. Even hairline fractures can allow water to seep into the base of the driveway. In the heat of Myrtle Beach, this water can expand and contract with temperature changes, creating larger cracks or potholes. Use crack filler products or contact a professional asphalt repair company like Asphalt Today to seal small cracks before they worsen. Regular inspections—especially after spring and early summer storms—can catch these problems early.

4. Avoid Parking Heavy Vehicles During Peak Heat

If you own a trailer, camper, boat, or other heavy vehicle, avoid parking it directly on your driveway during the hottest part of the day. When asphalt softens, heavy weights can cause indentations or ruts that become permanent once the surface cools. If you must park a heavy vehicle, use plywood sheets under the tires to distribute the weight more evenly and prevent surface deformation.

5. Rinse the Surface on Hot Days

Lightly spraying your driveway with water on extremely hot days can help lower the surface temperature. While this won’t prevent damage entirely, it can reduce the risk of softening and bubbling, especially during heatwaves.

Note: Avoid overwatering or using cold water on superheated asphalt, which can cause thermal shock. A gentle rinse in the early morning or late evening works best.

6. Protect Against Oil and Chemical Spills

Asphalt is petroleum-based, and exposure to oil, gasoline, or solvents can weaken the binder in the pavement. If you spill oil while changing your car or notice a fluid leak, clean it immediately. Use degreasing agents designed for asphalt and rinse thoroughly with water. Once oil soaks in, the area becomes brittle and more susceptible to cracking and crumbling, especially in hot weather.

7. Create Shaded Areas (If Possible)

If you’re planning landscaping around your driveway, consider planting trees or installing a pergola or carport to provide partial shade. While you want to avoid root systems under the driveway, shaded areas can significantly reduce heat buildup on the surface. Shading also prevents rapid oxidation and extends the life of your asphalt—especially if your driveway faces west and receives intense afternoon sun.

Myrtle Beach-Specific Considerations

Myrtle Beach’s coastal environment makes driveway maintenance even more critical. The salt content in the air can speed up the breakdown of materials. Humidity traps heat and moisture, while the occasional tropical storm can cause flooding or erosion under poorly maintained driveways.

In addition to the heat, property owners must consider:

• Sandier soils that affect subbase stability.
• Stormwater runoff due to heavy rainfall.
• Tourist-season traffic, which may increase wear for homes that rent or host guests.

Regular maintenance and repairs, timed with local climate patterns, can prevent costly replacements and keep your driveway looking its best throughout the peak season.

Contact Asphalt Today for Residential Paving Services in Myrtle Beach, SC

Protecting your driveway from summer heat in Myrtle Beach doesn’t have to be a hassle. At Asphalt Today, we specialize in asphalt maintenance, repair, and paving services designed for the unique conditions of the Grand Strand. Whether you need sealcoating, crack repair, or a brand-new installation, our team of professionals is ready to help. We use high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure your driveway stays strong, smooth, and safe—even in the hottest months of the year. Don’t wait for small cracks to turn into major damage. Contact Asphalt Today for a free quote and let us help you extend the life of your driveway with expert care. Call now or schedule an appointment online to get started!