Here in Portland, winter means wet. It rains and rains and rains some more. Like many property owners, there is a good chance your home driveway or business parking lot is suffering from potholes during these long winter months. Today, we are going to discuss what causes potholes and how you can fix them!
What Causes Potholes?
Potholes form due to the expansion and contraction of groundwater as it freezes and thaws. Essentially, any water in the ground under the pavement will freeze when the temperature drops. As water freezes, it expands. When the water expands, it needs more space, which forces the pavement above it to lift. This lift can lead to bending or cracking of the asphalt.
Once there is a crack in the asphalt, that is where the pothole will begin to form. Water will get into the gap and follow the same process, forcing the crack to expand further and further until you have an annoying hole.
In addition, heavy traffic can cause potholes. Any material gets worn down over time. As cars, trucks, and heavy machinery pass over the asphalt, it eventually wears away and loses its integrity. Once a tiny crack is formed, the weight of passing vehicles (especially combined with the destructive force of water) pushes it to get larger and larger.
Why Get Potholes Fixed?
Generally, spring is the best time for repairing potholes due to better weather conditions. However, if your home or business is being adversely affected by potholes, it can be done in the winter. If you have large potholes in your home driveway that are harming your vehicles or posing a safety risk to loved ones, it is best to get it fixed before damage occurs. The same concept applies to a business driveway or parking lot. The last thing you want is for a customer to break an ankle in a pothole, as you would be liable. Keeping your driveway and parking lots in top-notch shape is always better for business.
Other than safety concerns, you will want to repair your potholes to prevent further damage. Once a pothole gets too big, nothing can be done to fix it, and you will have to repave the entire section. Before it gets past the point of no return, you can patch it and wait on a full replacement.
How to Fix a Pothole?
While it is possible to fix a pothole on your own, non-professionals rarely do an adequate job and frequently end up causing further damage. It is always recommended to use a professional. Here at Signature Paving, we will fix up your pothole quickly and efficiently so that you can go back to living your life fully in no time. Do you have any questions about pothole repair? Give us a call today for more information and a consultation. We will be happy to provide you with everything you need to know about your specific situation.
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