Throughout the winter, you may start to notice potholes forming on the asphalt roads and lots in your area. New asphalt that’s properly laid likely won’t show signs of wear or damage right away, but it can happen over time. Here’s what you should know about potholes and asphalt paving so you can take care of any issues in your driveway or parking lot.

Why Asphalt Paving Develops Potholes in Winter

How Potholes Are Formed

Potholes are formed due to the freeze and thaw cycle that is so pervasive throughout winter. Snow or ice covers a road or surface and then starts to melt. The moisture seeps into the asphalt material and then refreezes when the temperature drops. As it freezes, it expands and starts to break apart the asphalt material, forming cracks and potholes over time. The heat from the sun and the weight of heavy traffic can also compound the problem further and cause potholes to form faster. It’s also more common with older pavement or surfaces that have not been properly sealed and maintained.

What to Do About Them

When a pothole starts to form, it continues to collect water that turns into ice and expands, causing the problem to get progressively worse over time. Since large potholes can present safety hazards and put a major strain on vehicle suspensions, call an asphalt contractor to take care of any issues immediately. They can fill in the hole with a temporary solution for the rest of winter and then pave over the surface when the weather heats up.

If you have any potholes on asphalt driveways or commercial lots that you manage, trust the professionals at Lazer Perfect Striping & Sealing in Nixa, MO. Serving customers throughout the Branson Tri Lakes area, this licensed and insured contractor is an expert in all things asphalt and paving. With 48 years of experience, you can feel confident in getting personal and professional service from a reliable team of locals. Request a free estimate online, or call (417) 887-6604 to speak with a member of the team about your asphalt paving needs.