Whether they’re in your driveway, a store parking lot, or the sidewalk, potholes are inconvenient and potentially hazardous. Driving over one could cause significant car damage, and walking into one could cause bodily injury. Thankfully, you can work with a paving company to easily repair potholes on your property. Learn more about the process with the following questions and answers.

What You Should Know About Pothole Repair

What causes a pothole?

Despite its durability, asphalt is susceptible to damage over time. Daily traffic, excess sunlight, and poor weather conditions often lead to chips and cracks on the surface. Once water starts to flow into these crevices, the problem worsens, especially when freezing temperatures arrive. As the water freezes, it puts pressure on the asphalt, forcing the indentation to expand. 

How are potholes repaired? 

Because potholes vary in size and shape, the exact method of repair differs from one to the next. In general, the process involves filling in the hole with aggregate and new asphalt before smoothing out the surface so that it’s level with the rest of the road.

Sometimes, contractors will cut around the pothole to create a rectangular shape, which makes it easier to pour the asphalt in. In the industry, this is referred to as “patching.”

How can I prevent potholes?

Taking action early is the best way to prevent potholes. It’s faster and more cost-effect to repair a thin crack or shallow chip than a full-sized pothole. If you see a crack wider than 1/4 of an inch, call a professional paving company. Make sure to have the surface sealed about every three to five years.

Can potholes reappear in the same spot?

If a pothole isn’t properly filled and paved, the surface will start to crack, and the depression will eventually reappear. Weather conditions can also affect the longevity of a repair. In cold and wet conditions, it’s difficult for asphalt to fully harden. Hiring a professional paving company is the best way to ensure the repair process is done correctly.

If there’s a pothole on your property, trust North Central Paving with the repairs. Based in Onalaska, WI, this company has served residents and businesses throughout La Crosse, Juneau, Sauk, Monroe, and Columbia counties for 35 years. See some examples of their previous paving projects on their website, and if you have any questions, call them at (608) 781-4423.