In addition to decreasing your home’s exterior appeal, a pothole can compromise the structural integrity of your asphalt driveway. It is important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage, but you must follow the proper procedure if you decide to complete the task yourself. Luckily, this is a simple fix. Use the guide below to successfully patch the area.

What Do You Need to Repair a Pothole?

First, get hot-mix asphalt. Pick one with coarse aggregate materials to stabilize large potholes.

After asphalt filler, a shovel is the most important product for the job because it’s versatile, allowing you to pick up and manually spread replacement asphalt. Additionally, get a pothole tamper, a tool that compacts the material with a rectangular metal plate. You’ll use it for patting the mixture in place after filling the hole. 

How Can You Patch Potholes in an Asphalt Driveway?

It’s easier to work during the spring and summer, as hot-mix asphalt can cool too quickly in temperatures below 50 degrees. The weather must also be dry to ensure a strong bond between the replacement material and the existing surface.

To patch the driveway, first use the shovel to dig out any debris in the hole. Then, fill 2 to 4 inches of the crevice with asphalt mix. Use the tamper to compact this layer, then add the same amount of asphalt and repeat this step. Compact each ensuing layer. Once the hole is filled, leave it to cure. Refrain from driving over the spot for two to three days to ensure an even surface.

If you need materials to work on an asphalt driveway, turn to Spallina Materials Inc. in upstate New York. This family-owned company is dedicated to serving customers in Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Wyoming, Wayne, Ontario, and Steuben counties. They provide high-quality hot-mix asphalt mixtures that include top aggregate materials. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings, or call (585) 658-2248 to discuss your project.