In East Texas, where the summer sun beats down hard and unexpected winter freezes sneak in, asphalt driveways take a real beating. If you live in Tyler—whether you’re out near The Cascades, in a historic home off Azalea District, or tucked into a quiet cul-de-sac in Hollytree—you’ve probably noticed your driveway wearing down faster than you’d expect.
That’s where sealcoating comes in.
But how do you know when it’s time?
At Southend Asphalt, we’ve worked on driveways all over Smith County, and we’ve learned exactly what signs tell us it is ready for sealcoating.
Here are clear indicators that your asphalt could use a little attention.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler driveways fade from black to gray as UV exposure breaks down asphalt and signals it needs sealcoating soon.
- Cracks, oil stains, and surface wear are clear signs your driveway in Tyler is no longer properly protected.
- Water soaking in and loose gravel along the edges show your sealant is worn and should be replaced.
- Regular sealcoating every three years in Tyler keeps asphalt strong and prevents major repairs before problems get worse.
Fading Color from Jet Black to Gray
If your once-dark asphalt driveway is now looking more like the color of the dust blowing in from Loop 323, that’s a big red flag. Tyler’s high UV index, especially in the hot summers, causes oxidation in asphalt.
Over time, that breaks down the binder that holds it all together, and the rich black color fades to light gray. It’s more than just cosmetic. It is one of the earliest signs your driveway is vulnerable.
If you’re noticing this in areas with little shade, like those near Faulkner Park or out in Flint, where trees are sparse, it’s time to consider sealcoating.
Small Surface Cracks Appearing
You might spot thin cracks that look like spiderwebs across the surface, especially around high-use areas like where your tires always stop or where water pools after rain.
In neighborhoods like Cumberland Ridge and The Woods, where many driveways slope slightly downhill, water runoff can settle into these cracks and freeze in the winter, making them worse.
Sealcoating helps stop water intrusion before those tiny cracks turn into big, expensive ones.
Staining from Oil or Chemicals
Driveways in Tyler often double as work zones—changing oil, cleaning out ATVs after a weekend at Tyler State Park, or just parking older vehicles that leak a bit. When you see stains that don’t wash off with regular cleaning, that oil is actually softening the asphalt.
Sealcoating creates a protective barrier that resists chemical spills and makes future cleanup easier. If your driveway is starting to look like the service bay at a garage, it’s time to reseal.
Loss of Texture and Smoothness
Driveways should have a slightly rough surface for traction, but if it feels smoother than a polished floor, that’s a problem. Heat and rain in Tyler—especially during those intense downpours we get in spring and early fall—can slowly erode the fine top layer of asphalt.
Residents along Old Jacksonville Highway and in newer subdivisions like Oak Hollow often notice this after a couple of seasons without maintenance.
If your driveway has lost its grit, sealcoating can restore that protective texture.
Water Isn’t Beading on the Surface
After a good East Texas rainstorm, take a look at your driveway. If water soaks in instead of forming beads or running off, the surface is no longer sealed.
In areas like Chapel Hill and Bullard, where driveways can be exposed to heavy rains and shifting clay soil, water infiltration is a big concern.
Sealcoating helps create a water-resistant layer that prevents the kind of long-term water damage that leads to potholes and base failure.
Increased Dust or Loose Gravel
If you’re sweeping your driveway more often or noticing fine gravel building up along the edges, that’s a sign the asphalt is deteriorating. This is common on older driveways in South Tyler and semi-rural areas like Gresham, where driveways were poured 10 to 15 years ago. The binder starts to break down, and the top layer begins to unravel.
Sealcoating binds everything back together and slows that surface breakdown.
It’s Been Over 3 Years Since Your Last Sealcoat
Even if your driveway still looks “okay,” time alone is a reason to reseal. In Tyler’s climate, with its combination of scorching heat, occasional ice storms, and year-round vehicle wear, asphalt should be resealed every 2 to 4 years.
If it’s been longer than that—especially in sun-exposed areas like those around UT Tyler or along Highway 64—it’s smart to get ahead of damage.
Sealcoating before visible problems show up is the best way to extend your driveway’s life.
Protect Your Driveway Before It Breaks Down
If you’ve seen one or more of these signs, your driveway isn’t just showing age. It’s calling for protection. Ignoring the early warning signs can lead to cracks, potholes, and costly resurfacing.
At Southend Asphalt, we specialize in helping Tyler homeowners keep their driveways looking clean, strong, and protected with professional-grade sealcoating. Whether you’re in Whitehouse, near Lake Palestine, or right in the heart of Tyler, we know what local driveways go through—and how to protect them from it.
Don’t wait until you need repairs. Let us help you add years to your driveway’s life.
Call us today to schedule a quote or learn more about our sealcoating services.
