A Complete Guide to Asphalt Potholes

Asphalt can be a pretty durable option. For instance, according to experts, asphalt can last as long as 12 years when properly maintained. A great way to extend the lifespan of your asphalt surface is by repairing any damage quickly.

The most common type of damage you’ll come across is potholes. But before you start searching for asphalt paving companies near you, here’s what you need to know about what causes asphalt potholes and how to fix them.

What Causes Potholes?

You may have noticed that roads, parking lots, and other asphalt surfaces are susceptible to developing potholes. These potholes often appear when the weather becomes warm as a result of natural and man-made activities. Temperature changes and the constant stress of traffic are responsible for the formation of potholes.

During winter, asphalt surfaces are exposed to repeated melting and freezing. These freeze-thaw water cycles eventually cause the asphalt to start cracking, especially if there’s heavy traffic. As the asphalt weakens and develops more pockmarks, it’s no longer able to repel water.

Keep in mind that when roadways are constructed, different layers are added, including compacted earth and gravel. But when water seeps underneath the road’s surface, it will freeze when temperatures get colder, particularly at night. This turns the water into ice, which expands, exerting more pressure on the asphalt surface above.

The opposite happens when temperatures rise. The frozen water will melt, and the ground becomes level again, but the pavement which has been pushed up often stays that way. As traffic continues over the pavement, the asphalt will crack because it has no ground support, so a depression forms. This can keep happening until there are potholes all over.

The Problem With Asphalt Potholes

The formation of asphalt potholes represents many problems. For starters, it reduces the lifespan of your pavement. If the problem is not fixed quickly, potholes can get quite deep because once the ground beneath is exposed, soil erosion will come into effect. So, while some slight pockmarks are nothing to worry over, bigger potholes can be dangerous.

That’s because as vehicles accelerate over a surface with potholes, the wheels will hit the edge of the pothole, which can damage the vehicle’s suspension and shocks. Also, it increases the risk of accidents, especially if the driver is not aware of potholes in the pathway.

Therefore, the best way to deal with potholes is by finding one of the best asphalt paving companies on the market to reduce damage to cars, accidents, and the cost that comes with them.

How to Fix Asphalt Potholes

Asphalt paving companies use either of two common repair methods when patching up potholes. The first process is the cold mix asphalt method, while the other is the hot mix. The cold mix method is so-called because it works best in winter and is often used as a temporary measure. Cold mix involves clearing loose debris inside the pothole before pouring a soft asphalt patch created by mixing bitumen emulsion and other materials.

The biggest advantage of the cold mix is that it makes it possible to repair asphalt surfaces in winter. This is because it contains additives that make it suitable for cold conditions. It’s also a viable alternative when hot mix is not available. However, the downside is that potholes will develop again.

This brings us to the hot mix solution, which is more permanent than cold mix. It can only be used in summer or when the temperature is warmer. Hot mix is prepared by combining asphalt and a variety of aggregates like sand and gravel. Hot mix can extend the life of your asphalt surface by years once the potholes have been eliminated.

The basic process of fixing the potholes involves first cleaning the pothole to avoid weakening the repair. The pothole also needs to be heated to get rid of any moisture. From there, the asphalt is added, whether hot mix or cold mix. After that, the repair is compacted to ensure the new pavement adheres to the old pavement.

Finding the Best Asphalt Paving Company for You

If you are currently dealing with asphalt potholes, then you need to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are asphalt paving companies that specialize in this type of repair. However, we encourage you to do your homework to ensure you only work with a company with the specific qualities you’re looking for.

We are a reputable and experienced asphalt paving company that specializes in quality asphalt pothole repair. Get in touch for the best and fastest repair process.