Whether you own a storefront or manage an apartment complex, your property’s parking lot can make or break every first impression. If potholes have started to dot the surface, the curb appeal of your property will suffer, and the risk of auto damage and tripping accidents may increase. To avoid liability incidents and preserve your real estate, take advantage of this pothole guide.

Why Do Potholes Form?

The pothole formation process begins long before there’s a visible depression in the asphalt. Usually, it starts with rain and melted snow, slowly seeping through tiny cracks in the pavement. As the water collects underneath the surface, it pools, pushing the underlying dirt, gravel, and rocks out of the way. Eventually, the water evaporates, but new runoff will collect in this underground cavern.

As temperatures fluctuate throughout the year, the water will freeze, thaw, and evaporate repeatedly, putting more pressure on the surrounding sub-grade. With nothing but water or air as a foundation, the patch of pavement above will eventually collapse, leaving a visible pothole.

How Can I Fix & Prevent Them?

To temporarily fix an existing pothole, pavement contractors must clean out the sediment and loose pieces of asphalt. Then, they will fill in the hole with hot asphalt and allow it to dry. For more extreme potholes, they may need to remove the entire top layer of the parking lot area—at least four inches—until a stable foundation is revealed. Then, they can fill in the missing or displaced sub-grade before repaving the top layer.

To prevent potholes, it’s crucial to seal coat your pavement at least once every few years. This prevents cracks from forming and kick-starting the formation of potholes. It’s also important to inspect your parking lot every few months for fine cracks. If you spot any, having these filled in by a professional pavement contractor could save you the hassle of a deep pothole.

If potholes have left your parking lot looking like the moon’s surface, get in touch with Carl Burns-Hotshot Asphalt of the St. Louis, MO, area. They are proud to patch or resurface these problem areas and seal coat the asphalt to prevent them from returning. Thanks to their one-year exclusive warranty, you can count on lasting results for your investment. Learn more about their skills by visiting the website, or call (636) 584-7283 to schedule an appointment.