Potholes

Potholes are often synonymous with spring. Despite efforts to prevent potholes, the nature of our climate makes them inevitable. They are caused by a series of events that occur on and under the road surface.

1. A crack appears in the asphalt and breaks its seal.
2. Water seeps under the asphalt.
3. During a period of frost, the infiltrated water freezes, putting pressure on the asphalt.
4. When the water thaws, it creates a cavity under the asphalt. The pavement regains its shape but becomes less resilient to weight. The more frequent the freeze/thaw cycles are, the greater the potential for pothole formation.
5. The repeated traffic and weight of vehicles make the pavement more fragile.
6. The pavement weakens and sags, creating holes referred to as “potholes.”