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.
- A crack appears in the asphalt and breaks its seal.
- Water seeps under the asphalt.
- During a period of frost, the infiltrated water freezes, putting pressure on the asphalt.
- 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.
- The repeated traffic and weight of vehicles make the pavement more fragile.
- The pavement weakens and sags, creating holes referred to as “potholes.”
