When summer hits Texas, it doesn’t hold back. Blistering temperatures, relentless sun, and dry conditions can take a serious toll—not just on you, but on your asphalt surfaces, too. Whether it’s your driveway, parking lot, or road, excessive heat can cause cracks, soft spots, and costly damage over time.
Good news? You can fight back. With the right summer asphalt maintenance strategies, your pavement can stand strong all season long.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Summer Heat Affects Asphalt Surfaces
Asphalt might look tough, but it’s surprisingly sensitive to heat. When temps rise above 90°F (which is practically a given in West Texas), your asphalt becomes more pliable—softening under heavy loads and warping under pressure.
Common summer damage includes:
- Surface softening– Excessive heat can make asphalt feel sticky and weak.
- Cracking– Thermal expansion and contraction may lead to cracks.
- Oxidation– UV rays break down the binders in asphalt, making it brittle.
- Rutting and depressions– Especially in areas with frequent vehicle traffic.
The longer you leave these issues unattended, the worse they get—and that means more time, money, and effort to fix them later.
Why Summer Asphalt Maintenance Matters
Preventive maintenance during summer isn’t just about keeping things looking clean and black. It’s about saving yourself from massive repairs later.
When you take care of your pavement in the heat, you’re:
- Extending its lifespan
- Improving surface safety
- Reducing long-term costs
- Preserving curb appeal
Whether it’s a residential driveway or a commercial lot, summer maintenance helps your asphalt survive the sun—and come out the other side in better shape.
5 Summer Asphalt Maintenance Tips
Let’s get practical. Here are five essential tips to help your pavement beat the Texas heat.
1. Prioritize Sealcoating
Sealcoating is your asphalt’s best summer defense. It acts like sunscreen—protecting the surface from UV rays, water, oil, and oxidation. A good sealcoat helps maintain that smooth blacktop look while creating a barrier that extends the lifespan of your pavement.
Pro tip: Plan sealcoating early in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower. It ensures better bonding and faster drying.
2. Repair Cracks Immediately
Cracks might seem harmless at first, but during summer, they expand quickly. What starts as a tiny split could become a full-blown pothole if you wait too long.
Use hot rubberized crack fillingor patch repair techniques to close them up fast. This prevents water infiltration, keeps debris out, and stops the damage from spreading.
3. Keep It Clean
Dirt, oil, and debris not only make your asphalt look bad—they also contribute to surface breakdown.
Sweeping your pavement regularly helps remove materials that trap heat, absorb oils, and clog drainage systems. Cleaning also prepares the surface for sealcoating or repairs.
Bonus: A clean surface improves visibility for striping and safety markings.
4. Mind the Drainage
Texas heat is often paired with summer storms. If your asphalt isn’t draining well, you’ll see standing water—and that’s a quick recipe for potholes.
Make sure your site has proper slope and drainage systems. This might include regrading areas, clearing debris from drains, or repairing dips where water pools.
5. Don’t Overload the Surface
If your parking lot or driveway sees heavy traffic—especially trucks or trailers—consider reinforcing those areas with thicker pavement or asphalt mix designed for durability.
You should also avoid parking heavy vehicles in one spot for too long during high-heat days, as that’s when asphalt is most vulnerable to indentations.
Bonus Tip: Know When to Call the Pros
DIY maintenance can go a long way, but some jobs are best left to experienced paving contractors—especially when it comes to:
- Sealcoating
- Hot rubber crack filling
- Pavement striping
- Resurfacing or patching
A professional crew can assess your pavement’s condition, recommend solutions, and get the job done safely and efficiently—without the guesswork.
Best Time for Asphalt Maintenance in Texas?
You might think summer’s too hot for asphalt work—but actually, it’s one of the best timesfor most maintenance tasks.
Warm weather helps materials cure properly and allows for quick drying. Just be mindful of working in the cooler parts of the day, and always follow manufacturer recommendations for temperature ranges.
Why Texas Property Owners Shouldn’t Wait
Asphalt paving in Texas isn’t just about installation—it’s about year-round care. The heat here is no joke, and ignoring maintenance can lead to costly consequences.
Whether you’re a homeowner trying to protect your driveway or a business owner managing a parking lot, being proactive in summer is key.
Permian Paving: Your Local Asphalt Maintenance Experts
Based in the heart of West Texas, Permian Pavingunderstands exactly what your asphalt goes through during summer. From residential driveways to commercial parking lots and roadways, we help clients keep their pavement in top shape—no matter how high the temperature climbs.
Our services include:
- Asphalt paving and repairs
- Sealcoating
- Crack sealing
- Pavement marking
- Recycled asphalt paving
- Dirt and base work
- Concrete work
If you’re ready to protect your pavement this summer, we’re here to help.
Texas summers are tough—but your asphalt doesn’t have to suffer.
With regular maintenance, timely sealcoating, and smart repairs, your surface can stay safe, attractive, and long-lasting all season long. Don’t wait for the damage to show—get ahead of the heat with a solid summer asphalt care plan.