An expert has shared three easy ways you can help protect your patios and driveways from sun damage in the heat – and save yourself paying a hefty price for a repair
As the weather continues to heat up, Brits are being advised to check on their patio – the hot temperatures could be doing more damage than you think.
With this summer’s record-breaking high temperatures, you may well be noticing cracks, crumbling edges, and discolouration on your driveways and patios. Not only does this look unsightly, it also leads to structural damage and weakening. Even more concerning, the damage could be worse than it looks, according to Bill Jarvis, driveway sealing expert at Premium Paints.
Bill says: “What many people don’t realise is that heat damage to patios and driveways tends to show up later. By the time you spot the cracks, the surface has already taken a beating.”
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The Met Office recently confirmed that spring 2025 was the warmest on record, with 43% more sunshine than average. June 2025 also became the warmest June ever recorded in England.
On top of that, this week’s latest heatwave could be putting even more strain on your outdoor patios and driveways. It doesn’t end there, either. Long-term forecasts predict hotter, drier summers will become the norm – making patio and driveway care an urgent concern for British homeowners.
The effects of prolonged sun exposure can be massive. It can cause materials like tarmac, resin and even concrete to expand, dry out and eventually crack. This is especially true if they haven’t been properly sealed or maintained.
Worse still, left unchecked, heat-damaged surfaces become more susceptible to rain, frost and wear, meaning you may have to fork out for bigger repairs come winter – which can cost over £1000.
Luckily, there are some effective ways to heat-proof your patio or driveway to protect against damage. If your outdoor surfaces are starting to look a little worse for wear, or you just want to prevent problems before they start, Bill recommends several tips.
Firstly, you should seal it up. Bill says: “A high-quality sealant acts like sun cream for your slabs. It locks in moisture, protects the colour and prevents cracking. Reseal every 2-3 years for best results.”
You should also use lighter tones. According to Bill: “If you’re redoing your patio, use paler tones or materials like porcelain paving. They absorb less heat and stay cooler.”
Lastly, you should think about drainage. Bill says: “Heatwaves are often followed by heavy downpours. If your surface is already cracked, sudden water build-up can make things worse. Make sure your patio or drive is sloped properly and draining well.”