G.P.E. Asphalt Paving & Sealcoating
Local roots, professional crews, and a reputation for clean, long-lasting work.
The South Carolina Lowcountry is known for its beautiful weather — sunshine, sea breeze, and long summer days. But while that sunshine might be great for beach days, it’s not so great for your asphalt driveway or parking lot.
At G.P.E. Paving & Sealcoating, we often see driveways that look fine in spring but start to fade, crack, or soften by late summer. The culprit? Prolonged sun and heat exposure. Here’s how the Lowcountry climate takes a toll — and what you can do to protect your pavement.
Asphalt is a mix of aggregates bound together by tar-like bitumen. Under normal temperatures, it remains flexible and durable. But when exposed to the intense UV radiation and high humidity of coastal South Carolina, it begins to break down.
Here’s what happens:
Oxidation: UV rays cause the binding oils in asphalt to dry out and harden.
Surface Fading: The deep black color fades to gray, a clear sign of deterioration.
Cracking: Brittle asphalt becomes prone to surface cracks that expand under pressure.
Soft Spots & Ruts: Prolonged heat softens asphalt, especially under parked vehicles, leading to depressions and structural weakness.
In Beaufort, Burton, and Lady’s Island, these issues can happen twice as fast as in cooler inland regions.
Once asphalt becomes brittle from heat, it’s no longer waterproof. When rain seeps in — and let’s face it, the Lowcountry gets plenty — that trapped moisture expands during hot and cool cycles, widening cracks and damaging the base layers.
Before long, you’ll notice crumbling edges, uneven surfaces, and those frustrating puddles that never seem to dry up.
Sealcoating acts as a protective sunscreen for your asphalt. It shields the surface from UV rays, locks in essential oils, and keeps the pavement flexible. Regular sealcoating every 2–3 years helps:
Prevent oxidation and fading.
Reflect sunlight to reduce surface temperature.
Maintain elasticity, preventing cracks from forming.
Keep your driveway looking freshly paved.
At G.P.E. Paving & Sealcoating, we use commercial-grade sealants designed specifically for the coastal South Carolina climate — resistant to both UV rays and salt air.
Delaying sealcoating or repairs allows heat damage to go deeper. What starts as minor fading can turn into full asphalt resurfacing or replacement — costing several times more than preventive care.
Regular maintenance is far more affordable, and it keeps your property looking polished and well-kept.
Protecting your asphalt isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about longevity and value. Whether it’s your home driveway or your business parking lot, proactive care can extend the life of your pavement by 50% or more.
📍 Serving Beaufort, Burton, and Lady’s Island with trusted asphalt and sealcoating solutions.
☀️ Keep your surface cool, strong, and beautiful — contact G.P.E. Paving & Sealcoating today for a free quote.