Learn what causes potholes and how to fix them.
Potholes are a common problem in most areas, but they are a big problem for property owners. Every year, potholes on public roads and parking lots cost millions of dollars in damage to vehicles. They can damage tires, wheels, axels, and shocks, among other car components. Continue reading to learn about potholes and how to fix them in your parking lot.
What Is A Pothole?
A pothole is a cavity in a paved surface. Asphalt is durable, but it weakens and breaks down over time, and because of traffic, weather, and the freeze-thaw cycle, it erodes away. Once it erodes enough to form an actual hole, you have a pothole.
What Causes Them?
Potholes usually appear gradually over time and are primarily caused by either traffic, water, or a combination. The weight of vehicles on the asphalt compacts it and wears it away. Combined with temperature-related contraction, traffic can cause the pavement to separate from the base layer. When more traffic drives over these gaps, it compounds the damage, until the road has a hole. Water also wears away at the surface. It can get down into the asphalt and if it freezes, cause cracks in the surface. These cracks allow more water in, which in turn does more damage as it freezes and thaws.
How Can You Fix Them?
Like with most things, the best defense against potholes is a good offense. If you own a paved surface, that means, preventative maintenance. Some of this maintenance you can do yourself, and some will require a professional. A clean paved surface actually lasts longer, so even sweeping up the debris and cleaning up oil spots and stains can help decrease potholes. Once you notice cracks, get them filled quickly. Cracks that are allowed to sit eventually become holes and will ultimately mean you need to repave rather than repair. You should also consider sealcoating to extend the life of your pavement. While there is no way to prevent the breakdown of asphalt, these tips can help give your paved surface its longest life possible.
Maintenance You Can Trust from PTG Enterprises
If you want to protect your pavement and ensure it has a long lifespan, choose PTG Enterprises for your community sidewalks, parking lots and pavement maintenance needs. We offer commercial concrete, asphalt, masonry, paving, consultation, and survey report services throughout Baltimore, Harford, Anne Arundel, Howard, and P.G. Counties. If you are interested in hearing how we can help you, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 636-8777. For more tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Flickr.
Tags: My Pavement Guy, Potholes, PTG Enterprises
